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KIRBY

ARAULLO

Kirby Pábalan-Táyag Aráullo is a distinguished Filipino historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. As the co-founder of the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, Kirby has authored numerous books exploring Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. His academic journey includes education at Harvard and UC Davis, where he developed his passion for teaching Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts. Kirby’s popular YouTube channel features a wealth of engaging content that delves into historical narratives and diverse cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to learn.

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Kirby Araullo
The Surprising Reason Why Filipinos Say Salamat
12:04

The Surprising Reason Why Filipinos Say Salamat

Did you know Salámat means more than just 'thank you'? 🙏🏽 It’s a wish for peace, harmony, and well-being, rooted in our indigenous traditions and precolonial Muslim heritage. But over centuries, colonialism reshaped its meaning. What really happened? 🎥 Join us! - https://youtube.com/kirbyaraullo/join 🔔 Subscribe - http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🍿Be my Patron - https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 Books, merch, etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 🌞 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia - https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia 🔥 ‘Discovery’ & Conquest of the Philippines: https://bit.ly/DiscoveringPH Video Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Salamat’s Forgotten Meaning? 00:53 What Salamat Means Today 02:15 The Linguistic Roots of Salamat 04:10 Salamat in Baybayin and Kulitan Scripts 05:55 Indigenous Thanksgiving Traditions 07:23 How Colonialism Changed Salamat 10:13 Salamat’s True Essence: A Wish for Peace 📺 About This Video: This video explores the deeper meaning of Salámat, a Filipino word that goes beyond 'thank you.' Rooted in precolonial Muslim heritage and indigenous Filipino traditions, Salámat represents peace, harmony, and well-being. We’ll dive into its linguistic origins, connections to Southeast Asian cultures, and its transformation under centuries of colonization. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Salámat and what it truly means to Filipinos today. ☀️ About Kirby: Kirby Araullo is a distinguished Filipino American historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. He is a direct descendant of the indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon—Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ—as well as the anti-colonial Katipuneros and World War II Guerilyeras who fought for Philippine liberation. His rich heritage also includes Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo roots. Kirby co-founded the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, where he has authored works on Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. With education from UC Davis and Harvard University, Kirby teaches Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts like Kulitan and Baybayin. His popular YouTube channel features educational content on historical narratives and cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to explore Filipino and Southeast Asian histories, and the stories of revolutionaries and freedom fighters from the Philippines.
The Sultanate of Sulu: How a Tiny Kingdom Became a Maritime Power
22:02

The Sultanate of Sulu: How a Tiny Kingdom Became a Maritime Power

Was it founded in 1405 or 1450? Discover the rise of the Sultanate of Sulu, a small island kingdom that became one of Southeast Asia’s oldest Islamic powers. Explore its maritime legacy, cultural resilience, and the pivotal role of Sultan Sharif ul-Hāshim in shaping history. Let's dive into the untold journey of a kingdom that defied the odds! 🎥 Join us! - https://youtube.com/kirbyaraullo/join 🔔 Subscribe - http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🍿Be my Patron - https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 Books, merch, etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 📜 “Who Really Owns Sabah?” Playlist - https://bit.ly/SabahHistory 🌞 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia: https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/seahistory Video Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:36 The Birth of the Sultanate 03:07 Sulu: A Maritime Crossroads 04:54 How Islam Transformed Sulu 07:37 Sultan Sharif ul-Hāshim and the Sultanate 10:08 1405 or 1450? Founding Mystery 12:32 Sulu’s Ties with Ming China 14:38 Uniting Sulu Under One Sultanate 18:22 The Sultanate’s Enduring Legacy About this Video & Series: Explore the history of the Sultanate of Sulu, one of Southeast Asia’s oldest Islamic powers. This maritime kingdom rose to prominence through Sultan Sharif ul-Hāshim’s leadership, the bravery of the Tausūg, Sama-Bajau, and Yakan peoples, and the spread of Islam. Learn how it transformed a small island chain into a maritime powerhouse, unified the Sulu Archipelago under Islamic governance, and connected Southeast Asia to the global Islamic world. This episode also delves into the founding debates—1405 or 1450?—and the Sultanate's enduring legacy as part of a mini-series on its rise, golden age, and twilight. About Kirby: Kirby Araullo is a distinguished Filipino American historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. He is a direct descendant of the indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon—Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ—as well as the anti-colonial Katipuneros and World War II Guerilyeras who fought for Philippine liberation. His rich heritage also includes Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo roots. Kirby co-founded the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, where he has authored works on Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. With education from UC Davis and Harvard University, Kirby teaches Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts like Kulitan and Baybayin. His popular YouTube channel features educational content on historical narratives and cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to explore Filipino and Southeast Asian histories, and the stories of revolutionaries and freedom fighters from the Philippines.
The Bizarre History of Ketchup You Didn't Know!
17:13

The Bizarre History of Ketchup You Didn't Know!

Did you know ketchup began as a fish sauce in Southeast Asia? Discover its journey from Asia to America’s favorite condiment—and learn how recent FDA bans on Filipino staples like banana ketchup impact Filipino-Americans and their taste of home. 🎥 Join us! - https://youtube.com/kirbyaraullo/join 🔔 Subscribe - http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🍿Be my Patron - https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 Books, merch, etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 🇵🇭 Filipino Food History & Culture - https://bit.ly/filipinofoodhistory 🌞 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia - https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia Video Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: The FDA Ban on Filipino Condiments 01:13 Southeast Asia’s Fish Sauce Origins of Ketchup 03:30 The Etymology of Ketchup: From "Kê-Tsiap" to "Ketchup" 05:46 How Ketchup Traveled from Asia to Europe 08:24 Tomato Ketchup: An American Transformation 10:25 Banana Ketchup: A Filipino Innovation 12:30 Southeast Asian Fish Sauce and Filipino Food Culture 14:11 Conclusion: A Global Journey of Flavor About Kirby: Kirby Araullo is a distinguished Filipino American historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. He is a direct descendant of the indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon—Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ—as well as the anti-colonial Katipuneros and World War II Guerilyeras who fought for Philippine liberation. His rich heritage also includes Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo roots. Kirby co-founded the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, where he has authored works on Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. With education from UC Davis and Harvard University, Kirby teaches Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts like Kulitan and Baybayin. His popular YouTube channel features educational content on historical narratives and cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to explore Filipino and Southeast Asian histories, and the stories of revolutionaries and freedom fighters from the Philippines.
Filipino Food is WEIRD (and that's great!)
19:17

Filipino Food is WEIRD (and that's great!)

Is Filipino food really just "meh"? In this video, we uncover the rich layers of flavor, history, and culture behind Filipino cuisine that often go unnoticed. From sisig to kinilaw, these dishes reveal the incredible diversity and creativity rooted in the Philippines' culinary traditions. 🎥 Join us! - https://youtube.com/kirbyaraullo/join 🔔 Subscribe - http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🍿Be my Patron - https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 Books, merch, etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 🇵🇭 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia - https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia 🇵🇭 Philippine Mythologies - https://bit.ly/MythologyPH Video Chapters: 00:00 Is Filipino Food Meh? 01:04 Introduction to Filipino Cuisine 02:33 Social Inequalities and Filipino Food 05:38 Filipino Food Misconceptions 07:36 Indigenous Roots of Filipino Dishes 08:52 Trade, Colonization & Cuisine 11:08 Complexity in Filipino Flavors 12:31 Exploring Regional Cuisines 15:26 Filipino Food: A Culinary Identity 17:32 Embracing & Celebrating Filipino Cuisine About the Video: In this episode, we dive into the origins and evolution of Filipino cuisine, exploring iconic dishes like sisig, kinilaw, and adobo, each carrying its own unique cultural story. Discover how centuries of trade, colonization, and indigenous traditions have shaped the flavors across the Philippines, highlighting the diversity of regional specialties and the resilience of our people. Whether you're a fan or a first-timer, this video offers a fresh perspective on why Filipino food is anything but "meh." Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights into Filipino history, culture, and everything in between! About Kirby: Kirby Araullo is a distinguished Filipino American historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. He is a direct descendant of the indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon—Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ—as well as the anti-colonial Katipuneros and World War II Guerilyeras who fought for Philippine liberation. His rich heritage also includes Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo roots. Kirby co-founded the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, where he has authored works on Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. With education from UC Davis and Harvard University, Kirby teaches Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts like Kulitan and Baybayin. His popular YouTube channel features educational content on historical narratives and cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to explore Filipino and Southeast Asian histories, and the stories of revolutionaries and freedom fighters from the Philippines.
‘Forgotten’ Filipino Day of the Dead Traditions You Need to Know
17:05

‘Forgotten’ Filipino Day of the Dead Traditions You Need to Know

Dive deep into the diverse ‘Day of the Dead’ traditions across the Philippines. From precolonial rituals like the Kapampangan Dáun and Ilocano Atang to modern practices blending indigenous, Catholic, and Islamic influences, we’ll explore how these customs honor our ancestors and celebrate cultural heritage. 🔔 Subscribe - http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🍿Be my Patron - https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 Books, merch, etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books 🎥 Join my channel! - https://youtube.com/kirbyaraullo/join Related Videos & Playlists: 🇵🇭 Philippine Mythologies - https://bit.ly/MythologyPH 👻 "Scary" Mythical Beings in the Philippines & Southeast Asia - https://bit.ly/scarymumu 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia - https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia Video Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:06 Ancient Rituals and Heritage of the Philippines 02:40 Ilocano Atang: Food Offerings for Ancestors 03:53 Ibaloi Fire Mummies: Ancient Preservation of Heritage 04:43 Kapampangan Daun & Parol: Ancestral Offerings 07:06 Kalag-Kalag: Memory and Family in the Visayas 08:26 Lumad Traditions: Honoring Ancestors 09:26 Kanduli: Ceremonial Feast Among Muslims 10:58 Thanksgiving in Filipino Culture: Daun and Kanduli 11:30 Spanish Influence on Filipino Day of the Dead 13:13 Global Ties: Day of the Dead Traditions from Mexico to the Philippines 14:58 Honoring Ancestors: Continuity of Traditions 15:55 Share Your Stories: How Does Your Family Honor the Dead? About Kirby: Kirby Araullo is a distinguished Filipino American historian, culture bearer, and content creator based in California. He is a direct descendant of the indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon—Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ—as well as the anti-colonial Katipuneros and World War II Guerilyeras who fought for Philippine liberation. His rich heritage also includes Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo roots. Kirby co-founded the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, where he has authored works on Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories. With education from UC Davis and Harvard University, Kirby teaches Filipino history and culture through indigenous scripts like Kulitan and Baybayin. His popular YouTube channel features educational content on historical narratives and cultural insights, attracting a global audience eager to explore Filipino and Southeast Asian histories, and the stories of revolutionaries and freedom fighters from the Philippines.
The First Filipinos in America: Long Before the Pilgrims!
16:43

The First Filipinos in America: Long Before the Pilgrims!

Uncover the untold history of the first Filipinos in America. Join us as we delve into forgotten stories that link the Philippines and the Americas, revealing narratives often overlooked in mainstream history. 🔔 Subscribe: http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🎥 Be my Patron: https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 My books, ebooks, coloring books, merch etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 🇵🇭 Filipino American History Month Playlist - https://bit.ly/KnowFAHM 🔥 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia: https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/seahistory Video Chapters 00:00 Intro: Who Were The First Filipinos in America? 01:14 Defining 'Filipino' and 'America' 02:51 The Luzones Indios and Morro Bay, California (1587) 05:43 The Manila Galleon Trade and California’s History (1565-1815) 07:57 The Manilamen of Louisiana (1763–1800s) 10:17 The Exiled Luzones Datus to Mexico (1587) 11:54 Rethinking 'Filipino' Identity 13:22 Precolonial Austronesian Connections 13:53 Uplifting Hidden Histories: Building Solidarity Across Continents About the Video Filipinos have been shaping American history for over 400 years—long before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. This video dives into the journeys of the Luzones Indios, who arrived at Morro Bay in 1587, the Manila Galleon Trade connecting Asia and the Americas, and the Manilamen who founded the first Asian-American settlement in Louisiana. Explore how Filipinos contributed to the cultural and historical fabric of America through maritime expertise and community-building efforts. Join Kirby Araullo as he uncovers these stories in honor of Filipino American History Month. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more on Filipino history and culture. About Kirby Araullo Kirby Pábalan-Táyag Aráullo is a Filipino American historian, content creator, and renowned culture bearer based in California. He is also the author of the groundbreaking book “Black Lives & Brown Freedom: Untold Histories of War, Solidarity, & Genocide,” and the Co-Founder and former Director of Operations for the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis. Kirby is a direct descendant of the last indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon (of both Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ), of the anti-colonial revolutionary Katipuneros, and of World War II Guerilyeras who fought for the liberation of the islands we now call the Philippines. Born in Angeles City, Philippines, Kirby spent his childhood amidst the rebuilding of his homeland in the aftermath of Mt. Pinatubo’s cataclysmic eruption. His childhood beneath the shadows of the city’s red-light district, slum neighborhoods, and Clark Air Base (a former U.S. military installation) sparked his lifelong passion in advocating for the rights and the well-being of marginalized and disenfranchised communities. As a direct descendant of revolutionaries, politicos, and activists, Kirby’s upbringing was molded by productively engaging and navigating the realms of advocacy, traditional politics, and grassroots activism. With a keen interest in varying fields (such as history, public affairs, and filmmaking) and a strong commitment to serving the community, Kirby studied at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, such as Harvard University, the University of California, Davis, and the Université catholique de Louvain (one of Europe’s oldest universities). He has been teaching Filipino people’s history through writing in indigenous Philippine scripts (Kulitan & Baybayin) for over a decade. Today, Kirby is well-known for his educationally engaging YouTube channel where you can find videos about history, culture, and everything in between! He is also currently working on his next big book “Luzones & the New World: Forgotten Histories from Southeast Asia to the Americas” along with an easy-to-read book and zine series known as “Know Our Roots,” and an educational coloring book series called “Color Our Roots.” Kirby is an educator who is well-rooted in his culture and passionate about his colorful heritage (Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo); he strives to decolonize Philippine history and democratize Ethnic Studies through knowledge and creativity. Kirby is a Dátû and Lakan by blood but an Artist-Scholar-Activist at heart.
The REAL Story of How Filipinos Defeated a Superpower in 1646!
17:27

The REAL Story of How Filipinos Defeated a Superpower in 1646!

How did a small band of Filipino warriors defeat a powerful Dutch fleet in 1646? On the Feast of La Naval, let’s dive into the Battles of La Naval de Manila, exploring how Kapampangan fighters defended the Philippines. Discover the resilience and strategies that turned the tide in a battle still celebrated today during this historic feast. 🔔 Subscribe: http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🎥 Be my Patron: https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 My books, ebooks, coloring books, merch etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/books Related Videos & Playlists: 🔥 ‘Discovery’ & Conquest of the Philippines: https://bit.ly/DiscoveringPH 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia: https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia 🇵🇭 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines Video Chapters: 00:00 How a Small Filipino Fleet Defeated a European Superpower 01:10 The Strategic Importance of Manila During the Spanish-Dutch Wars 02:25 La Naval’s Victory a Miracle or Strategy? 03:16 The Dutch Threat to Southeast Asia: Spanish-Dutch Wars Explained 05:25 Kapampangan Loyalty and Resistance: Allies or Subjugated? 07:39 How the Battles of La Naval Became a Turning Point in Philippine History 09:45 The Religious Significance of La Naval Victory: Faith vs Reality 11:24 Kapampangan Sacrifices and Rebellion: Rewards of Victory 14:41 How La Naval Shaped Filipino Identity and Resistance About La Naval: The Feast of La Naval is an annual celebration honoring the miraculous victory of Filipino and Spanish forces against the Dutch fleet in 1646 during the Battles of La Naval de Manila. This Catholic feast venerates the Virgin Mary under the title Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario (Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary), whose intercession is believed to have guided the defenders to victory. The feast is marked by processions, prayers, and devotion, held primarily in Quezon City, Bacolor, and Angeles City. About KIRBY: Kirby Pábalan-Táyag Aráullo is a Filipino American historian, content creator, and renowned culture bearer based in California. He is also the author of the groundbreaking book “Black Lives & Brown Freedom: Untold Histories of War, Solidarity, & Genocide,” and the Co-Founder and former Director of Operations for the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis. Kirby is a direct descendant of the last indigenous Paramount Kings of Luzon (of both Lakandúlâ of Tondo and Rája Matandá of Maynílâ), of the anti-colonial revolutionary Katipuneros, and of World War II Guerilyeras who fought for the liberation of the islands we now call the Philippines. Born in Angeles City, Philippines, Kirby spent his childhood amidst the rebuilding of his homeland in the aftermath of Mt. Pinatubo’s cataclysmic eruption. His childhood beneath the shadows of the city’s red-light district, slum neighborhoods, and Clark Air Base (a former U.S. military installation) sparked his lifelong passion in advocating for the rights and the well-being of marginalized and disenfranchised communities. As a direct descendant of revolutionaries, politicos, and activists, Kirby’s upbringing was molded by productively engaging and navigating the realms of advocacy, traditional politics, and grassroots activism. With a keen interest in varying fields (such as history, public affairs, and filmmaking) and a strong commitment to serving the community, Kirby studied at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, such as Harvard University, the University of California, Davis, and the Université catholique de Louvain (one of Europe’s oldest universities). He has been teaching Filipino people’s history through writing in indigenous Philippine scripts (Kulitan & Baybayin) for over a decade. Today, Kirby is well-known for his educationally engaging YouTube channel where you can find videos about history, culture, and everything in between! He is also currently working on his next big book “Luzones & the New World: Forgotten Histories from Southeast Asia to the Americas” along with an easy-to-read book and zine series known as “Know Our Roots,” and an educational coloring book series called “Color Our Roots.” Kirby is an educator who is well-rooted in his culture and passionate about his colorful heritage (Kapampángan, Tagálog, Indigenous Áytá, Pangasinan, and Spanish-Basque-Portuguese-Irish Mestizo); he strives to decolonize Philippine history and democratize Ethnic Studies through knowledge and creativity. Kirby is a Dátû and Lakan by blood but an Artist-Scholar-Activist at heart.
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kirbyaraullo@gmail.com

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