LCI

What is the Laguna Copperplate Inscription (LCI)?

The earliest known Philippine historical document found locally, declared a National Cultural Treasure.

Where was the Laguna Copperplate Inscription discovered?

It was discovered in 1989 in Lumbang, Laguna.

In which writing system is the LCI inscribed?

The LCI is written in Kawi, an indigenous writing system from Java, Indonesia.

What does the LCI document grant to a family in Luzon?

Perpetual freedom from debt.

What significant historical context does the LCI highlight regarding Philippine history?

It demonstrates strong cultural and trade connections between Luzon, Mindanao, Java, and India prior to the Spaniards' arrival.

Who played a pivotal role in interpreting the Laguna Copperplate Inscription?

Antoon Postma, a naturalized Filipino anthropologist.

What kind of document does the LCI represent?

It seems to be a semi-official certificate of acquittal of a debt.

Which body currently holds the Laguna Copperplate Inscription?

The National Museum of the Philippines.

What important relationship does the LCI establish with other cultural groups?

It indicates historical interactions and integration among different peoples in Southeast Asia.

When is the Saka-year mentioned in the LCI?

Saka-year 822, which corresponds to 900 A.D.

What are the possible implications of the debt listed in the LCI?

The debt could lead to slavery for the person and their family if unpaid.

What script type is the LCI identified as using?

Early Kawi script.

What is one consequence of an unpaid debt mentioned in the LCI?

It could result in the individual and their family becoming enslaved.

What is the estimated time period of the LCI?

It dates back to 900 A.D., which is 621 years before the arrival of Magellan.

What does the last sentence on the copperplate suggest?

It indicates there was at least one more page to the document that has not been found.

What is the significance of the LCI in Philippine history?

It is the earliest known historical document from the Philippines, showcasing cultural heritage.

What language influences are present in the LCI?

The LCI reflects influences from Sanskrit and Old Javanese due to trade relations.

What can the LCI tell us about societal structure in ancient Luzon?

It indicates a society with structured debt obligations and legal practices.

What is the Saka calendar?

A lunar calendar used in Hinduism and Buddhism that is referenced in the LCI.

Who discovered the Laguna Copperplate Inscription?

It was discovered by a group of treasure hunters in 1989.

What is the importance of Antoon Postma in relation to the LCI?

He was instrumental in interpreting and translating the inscription.

In what year was the LCI written?

The LCI corresponds to the year 900 A.D.

What does the term 'semi-official' imply in the context of the LCI?

It suggests that the document has legal backing but is not a formal government decree.

How does the LCI relate to the slave trade in the Philippines?

It illustrates the potential for enslavement as a consequence of unpaid debts.

What cultural interactions does the LCI reflect?

It shows historical interactions among people from Luzon, Mindanao, Java, and India.