Thesis: The massacre of U.S. troops at Balangiga caused the retaliation at Samar. Discussion: After the American military forces freed the Philippine Islands from the rule of Spain, the American government implemented a benevolent policy of assimilation for the absorption of the Philippine government. This caused an insurrection within the Philippines. The lack of Presidential guidance, poor military leadership, and the dehumanization of the Filipinos caused many atrocities and immoral acts to be committed by American military forces. One such act took place on the Island of Samar. American forces retaliated against the people of Samar for the perceived massacre of U.S. troops at Balangiga, Samar. Conclusion: There were reports that about one third of the entire population of Samar was annihilated during the campaign. The action and prosecution of General Smith and others completely justifies the claim that the massacre of U.S. troops at Balangiga caused the retaliation of Samar. Counterpoint: Others believe that the American forces did not retaliate for the attack on American troops at Balangiga, Samar. They believe that the pacification of Samar and the atrocities committed there were part of President McKinley's "Benevolent Assimilation" and the extension of American sovereignty over the Philippine Islands.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.