What if I told you that "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and the EDSA Revolution share more in common than you think? This isn't just a history lesson; it's an adventure. Curious? Click play to dig deeper and learn more! 🔔 Subscribe: http://goo.gl/yDgQmK 🎥 Be my Patron: https://www.patreon.com/kirbynoodle 📚 My books, ebooks, coloring books, merch etc. - https://www.kirbyaraullo.com/shop Related Videos & Playlists: 🌏 Demystifying Southeast Asia: https://bit.ly/KnowSoutheastAsia 🇵🇭 Precolonial & Early Philippine History https://bit.ly/EarlyPhilippines 🏝️ Discovery & Conquest of the Philippines: https://bit.ly/DiscoveringPH Salámat! ❤️💛💚 Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:52 Avatar’s Hidden History Lessons Mini Series? 02:44 Unity in Diversity Beyond Political Lines 04:35 The Buildup to a Peaceful Uprising 07:12 Collective Power & the Peaceful Nature of the Revolution 09:32 Nationwide Movement Beyond the Streets of Manila 11:51 The Aftermath & Ongoing Challenges of Peace & Democracy 14

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Water, Earth, Fire, Air.

Long ago, the four nations lived together in harmony.

Then, everything changed when the Fire Nation attacked.

Only the Avatar, master of all four elements, could stop them.

But when the world needed him most, he vanished.

In a world where stories inspires reality and you know history shapes narratives,

Avatar The Last Airbender emerges as more than just a tale of fantasy.

Through its lens, we dive deep into the heart of the 1986 People Power Revolution,

a turning point that redefined the Philippines.

This video explores the intricate parallels between the beloved series

and the profound themes of the EDSA People Power Revolution,

debunking misconceptions and misinformation about the collective power

that changed the world.

You know, because just like in Avatar, millions of people,

armed with only hope and unity, took to the streets to defy tyranny.

But if you think you know this story,

you know, if you think that this story is just about political dynasties clashing for power,

think again.

Welcome to my channel, it's me Kirby Aralio, your friendly Pinoy historian.

So Netflix,

just dropped the first season of the much-awaited live-action adaptation

of the Avatar The Last Airbender.

You know, basically on the same weekend that we commemorate

the 38th year anniversary of the People Power Revolution of the Philippines.

Now, as a historian and a huge fan of the Avatar universe,

since you know the very first episode of the original series back in 2005,

I of course cannot pass this chance to create this video

on what we can learn about the EDSA People Power Revolution

by watching Avatar The Last Airbender.

And actually, before we continue,

before we continue to dig deeper,

let me know in the comments below

if you think that I should make this into a miniseries.

Actually, I might just make it into a miniseries.

But let me know what you think in the comments below.

A miniseries on Avatar's hidden history lessons.

Basically, videos about, you know, what we can learn about history

from watching Avatar The Last Airbender.

So yeah, let me know what you think in the comments below.

And honestly, I already have ideas for the second part

and the third part of this miniseries.

So if this is part one, next week I might do part two

on, you know, from Avatar to reality,

the power of Southeast Asian reality.

You know, just in time for Women's History Month.

And you know, then part three could be something about,

you know, Avatar Unveiled.

Rediscovering pre-colonial Philippines.

You know, just in time for the anniversary

of the so-called discovery of the Philippines in 1521.

So that, those two would be my next coming videos.

So stay tuned and comment below

if you think this is a good idea for a miniseries on this channel.

Okay, now without further ado,

let's first dive deep into how diversity and unity,

unity and diversity played a crucial role

in the revolution, in the uprising,

in 1986.

Much like how Team Avatar's journey was

throughout the series.

In the heart of the Philippines,

the EDSA People Power Revolution

shines as a beacon of unity,

similar to the diverse group of people in Team Avatar.

A blend of characters from across the four nations.

And it mirrors the collective spirit

of the Filipino people from various backgrounds

united in their quest for freedom.

So the unity among Ang, Katara, Saka, Toph, and Zuko

symbolizes the solidarity across the Philippines

during EDSA.

This coalition transcended

political, social, and geographical divides,

reflecting a broad national movement

rather than a conflict confined to the political elite.

You know, Team Avatar's journey

underscores the power of collaboration

and mutual respect,

highlighting how diverse groups

can achieve monumental goals

when united by a common cause.

Now, shifting focus from the series to reality,

it's essential for us to address

a widespread misconception

that EDSA was just, you know,

a mere political showdown.

When in fact,

it was a culmination of years

of many years

of two decades

of resistance against dictatorship

involving Filipinos

from all walks of life.

This movement debunked

the idea that the struggle

was merely between

two political factions,

showcasing instead

a united front

of millions of people

advocating for democracy and justice.

By drawing parallels

between Avatar The Last Airbender

and the EDSA People Power Movement,

we see the strength of unity in diversity.

It's a powerful revolution

and a reminder that

when people come together,

transcending differences,

they can rewrite history.

You know, this narrative

not only inspires us

but also teaches us

the importance of collective action

in the face of adversity.

You know, from unity,

let's shift our gaze

towards, you know,

towards this build-up,

towards a peaceful uprising,

echoing this, you know,

this journey, this quest,

echoing Ang's slow but steady resolve

in his quest for peace and justice.

As the first light of dawn

scatters across the sky,

it symbolizes not just

the birth of a new era,

but also the birth of a new era.

but also the awakening

of a collective spirit,

reminiscent of Ang's journey

in Avatar The Last Airbender.

The EDSA People Power Revolution,

a pivotal moment in Philippine history,

mirrors this narrative

not just as, you know,

an abrupt rebellion,

but as a culmination

of persistent courage

and steadfast resolve.

Just as Ang embarked

on a formidable quest

to master all four elements

before facing Fire Lord Ozai,

the Filipino people engage

in a prolonged struggle

of organizing, protesting,

and resisting

against the dictatorship.

This journey of preparation

filled with, you know,

silent battles and sacrifices

parallels the peaceful mass gatherings

at EDSA,

or the Epifanion de los Santos Avenue

in Manila.

It highlights the importance

of unity, of solidarity,

and collective effort

in the face of tyranny,

showcasing how gradual

but firm resistance and struggle

can lead to monumental change.

From this, it's crucial to address

a common misconception

that EDSA was merely spontaneous,

because viewing the People Power Revolution

at EDSA merely as a spontaneous event,

it overlooks the deep-seated roots

of dissent that had been nurturing

for years, for decades.

You know, because in fact,

far from being an abrupt outburst,

the EDSA People Power Revolution

was the result of long-standing

grievances against corruption,

against human rights abuses,

and against the suppression of democracy

under the Marcos dictatorship.

And you know, this mirrors and reflects

the series-long build-up of resistance

against the Fire Lord Ozai,

against the oppressive rule

of the Fire Lord,

reminding us and emphasizing

that significant change

often comes from prolonged struggles.

It often comes from sustained movements,

and not just from sudden eruption of dissent.

And this narrative of the EDSA Revolution,

much like the journey of Ang and his friends,

teaches us about the power of patience,

the power of resilience,

and the power of collective action

in overcoming oppression

and ending injustices.

In the end,

and you know, it serves as a reminder

that the path to freedom and justice

is often a long journey,

fraught with challenges,

but ultimately leading to triumph.

And you know, as we draw these parallels

between history and the series,

we're reminded of the enduring strength

of the human spirit,

and of course,

the transformative power

of peaceful uprising.

By the way, if you like this video,

don't forget to like this video,

and you know, share this video,

and subscribe to my channel

for more history, culture,

and everything in between.

Okay, now back to our topic,

let's now dive into and witness

the, you know, how collective action

and how non-violence

shaped the EDSA People Power Revolution,

and how this actually mirrors,

you know, Ang's decisive moment of compassion

in the original series.

The EDSA People Power Revolution

stands as a testament

to the power of peaceful resistance,

echoing the core themes

of Avatar the Last Airbender.

In this historic event in the Philippines,

millions of Filipinos united,

not with violence,

not with firearms,

but with an unwavering commitment to peace,

mirroring the climactic decision of Ang

to confront Fire Lord Ozai

with mercy and restraint.

Ang's choice to defeat Ozai

using energy bending

rather than lethal force

underscores the power

of non-violent resistance.

This act of sparing life,

even in the face of monumental conflict,

reflects the spirit

of the People Power Revolution.

Millions of Filipinos gathered in masses,

demonstrating the indomitable collective will

for change.

Embodying Ang's philosophy

of achieving victory

by upholding one's core values.

In today's context,

in today's society in the Philippines,

the peaceful assembly at EDSA

of millions of Filipinos

leading to the ousting of a dictator

sadly often goes underappreciated.

This gathering was not merely a protest,

but a profound display

of non-violent power,

setting a global example

that peaceful change

is profoundly impactful.

Just as Ang's victory

redefined the path to peace

in his world,

the EDSA People Power Revolution

demonstrated the effectiveness

of non-violent resistance

on a worldwide scale.

The narratives of EDSA

and Ang's final battle with Ozai

convey a universal message

that true strength lies

in the heart of peaceful resistance.

This historic uprising

in Ang's journey

reminds us of the enduring power

of solidarity,

of unity and peace

in overcoming tyranny.

You know, reflecting on these stories

inspires us to uphold

the principles of non-violence

and collective action.

Highlighting that

a united stand for peace and justice

can indeed forge a path

towards a society

where there is genuine peace

and justice in our communities.

You know, beyond the streets of Manila,

like literally beyond

the Epifanio de Los Santos Avenue,

let's now explore

how the spirit of EDSA,

the spirit of the People Power Revolution,

ignited a nationwide movement

across the archipelago.

You know, reflecting the widespread

struggle for balance,

struggle for peace

that we see in the world

of the Avatar.

Across the four nations.

You know, unknown to many,

the EDSA People Power Revolution,

beyond its epicenter

in Metro Manila,

ignited a national fervor

that echoed throughout the Philippines.

You know, from the northern highlands

of Baguio

to the southern shores of Davao,

from the fertile lands of Pampanga

to the streets of Iloilo.

This widespread movement,

similar to the global struggle

for balance and freedom

in the world of the Avatar,

showcased a collective yearning

for democracy

that transcended geographic

and social divides.

You know, in Avatar,

the last airbender,

the liberation of the big city,

the big city of Ba Sing Se,

the capital of the Earth Kingdom,

and the final battle

against the Fire Nation

embodied the spirit of unity

and the resistance

against tyranny and injustices.

You know, these moments

paralleled the People Power Revolution,

where the call for change

resonated not just within

the congested streets of the capital,

but also in places like Cebu,

Pampanga, Iloilo, and beyond.

You know, the Avatar series

and the People Power Revolution

both highlight a crucial

and undeniable message.

That the quest for liberty

and justice

is a shared endeavor

that unites diverse groups of people

in a common cause.

You know, acknowledging

the nationwide scope of EDSA,

you know, beyond the streets of EDSA,

challenges the misconception

of its impact

being confined to Manila.

You know, the People Power Revolution

was a testament

to the Filipino people's

shared desire

for democracy and freedom,

a sentiment that transcended

geographic boundaries

and united a diverse nation.

The EDSA People Power Movement,

much like the narrative,

of Avatar The Last Airbender,

illustrates that

the pursuit of justice and freedom,

you know, it knows no bounds.

It is a powerful reminder

of the strength found in unity

and collective action

and collective will.

This historic event

teaches us that

when a nation comes together,

when a diverse group of people

comes together,

driven by a common purpose,

it can overcome tyranny

and inspire a legacy of democracy

that echoes through generations,

that transcends across the oceans.

You know, in the immediate aftermath

of the People Power Revolution

in the Philippines,

we will see how the journey

of rebuilding a society

that has been broken

by decades of corruption,

by decades of oppression

and injustices,

we see how this journey

of facing new challenges

actually parallels

Prince Zuko's path

towards peace and justice,

towards peace and governance

in the world of the Avatar,

you know, from the Fire Nation

and beyond.

In the aftermath

of the EDSA People Power Revolution,

the Philippines embarked

on a path

back to democracy.

Much like how

in the role of the Avatar,

the last airbender,

they sought to bring back peace

after defeating

the tyrannical Fire Lord.

And this period of rebirth

and reconstruction,

you know, while filled with hope,

was also laden with trials,

with immense trials

that tested the resilience

of a nation reborn.

In the realm of the Avatar,

the end of the war

did not signify

an immediate transition to peace.

So Prince Zuko's ascension

as the new Fire Lord

brought with it

the monumental task

of rebuilding a world

scarred by conflict

and division for a century.

You know, his efforts

to mend the fractures

of the past

while ensuring peace

and justice

reflect the journey

of the Philippines

after EDSA.

Just as Zuko

faced the daunting challenges

of governance,

of reconciliation,

and you know,

the constant threat

of lingering authoritarianism,

the Philippines navigated

through its newfound democracy

with similar hurdles,

with similar challenges.

You know, the Philippines

grappled with governance issues,

persistent corruption

to this day,

and the shadows

of authoritarianism.

The shadows

of tyranny.

Well, you know,

striving to uphold

the democratic ideals

that the people fought for

during the People Power Movement.

To view the EDSA

People Power Revolution's

aftermath

as a simple victory

for democracy

is to overlook

the complex realities

that followed.

Democracy's restoration

was just the beginning

of a longer journey

towards genuine freedom

and justice.

And the challenges

of post-revolution governance,

battling corruption,

and safeguarding

against authoritarian tendencies

echo the post-war challenges

in the Avatar world.

These struggles

underscore that

the fight for freedom,

that the fight for democracy

and peace

is an ongoing challenge,

requiring us

to be constantly vigilant,

requiring us

to stay committed.

The narrative

of the Philippines

after EDSA

intertwined with the story

of peace-building in Avatar

reminds us

that the path

towards a just

and equitable society

is often fraught

with challenges.

And more importantly,

it teaches us that

democracy

is a continuous journey

and not a destination.

And that,

the true essence

of courage

lies

in the relentless pursuit

of peace

and justice,

even in the face

of daunting challenges.

Now, beyond the Philippines,

let's look at how

the people power revolution

in the Philippines

became a beacon of hope

around the world.

Much like how,

you know,

the unification efforts

and peace-building efforts

of the Avatar and his team

in the Avatar world

inspired movements

for freedom

across the four nations.

The people power revolution,

a pivotal moment

in Philippine history,

did not only reshape

the nation's destiny,

but also sent ripples

across the world,

symbolizing

the universal cry

for liberation

and democracy.

You know,

this momentous event,

much like the epic saga

of Avatar The Last Airbender,

transcends its local context

to inspire global movements

against tyranny.

In the world of the Avatar,

the liberation

and unification

of the four nations

underpin

a profound message

of hope,

of unity

and resilience.

This narrative,

where people from

all walks of life

come together

to forge a future

marked by peace and justice,

mirrors the spirit

of the people power movement.

Now, unknown to many,

including many Filipinos today,

the people power movement,

this peaceful uprising

in the Philippines

actually became

a beacon of hope

for the oppressed peoples

and nations worldwide,

demonstrating

the profound impact

of collective action.

You know,

it highlighted how

the principles of unity

and non-violent resistance

could galvanize

movements

for freedom

and democracy.

You know,

from Eastern Europe's

Velvet Revolutions

to the Antisemitism,

anti-apartheid struggle

in South Africa

and the civil rights campaigns

across Latin America.

And you know,

to be honest,

it's critical for us

to debunk

the misconception

that the impacts of EDSA

was confined to the Philippines.

Far from being

a mere local event

in Manila,

EDSA's people power

became a global phenomenon,

inspiring

countless individuals

and countless movements

fighting against oppression.

It showcased

the potential

of peaceful resistance

to effect change,

challenging the notion

that force

and violence

are necessary

to overthrow tyranny.

The global resonance

of the people power revolution,

similar to the unification efforts

in the avatar world,

serves as a testament

to the enduring power

of people united

for a common cause.

It reminds us

that the fight for democracy

and human rights

is universal,

transcending borders

and cultures.

And as we reflect

on these parallels,

we are reminded

of the strength

found in solidarity

and the immense

transformative power

of collective action

and peaceful movement.

In shaping

a just

and equitable world.

Okay, again,

just a reminder,

there's a lot of bits

and pieces of spoilers

scattered throughout this video.

But honestly,

it does not really change

the great experience

of watching

the Avatar The Last Airbender.

So,

don't worry about it.

And with that,

let us now continue.

Let us draw from the conclusion

of the Avatar The Last Airbender series,

the original series,

to better understand

the relevance

of these lessons

in our ever-changing,

ever-evolving challenges

in the world today.

The echoes

of the people power movement

resonate

not just in the past

but forward

into the future,

embodying a beacon of hope

and collective will.

This historical moment,

similar to the peaceful resolution

in Avatar The Last Airbender,

teaches us the important lessons

about unity,

peace,

and the ongoing struggles

for justice.

Avatar The Last Airbender

concludes with peace restored,

a testament to the power of unity

and non-violent resistance.

This narrative

mirrors the fact

that the Philippines

after EDSA

prompting reflections

on the relevance

of people power

in today's evolving challenges.

You know,

as the characters in Avatar

unite to rebuild,

EDSA's legacy

inspires advocacy

for democracy

and freedom,

emphasizing peaceful means

as the foundation

for addressing

contemporary issues.

And you know,

honestly,

beyond a historical milestone,

EDSA symbolizes

the living desire

for freedom and democracy

that is relevant globally,

not just in the Philippines.

It challenges us

to consider

the future of people power

in a changing world.

You know,

where governance,

social justice,

and human rights

demand action.

EDSA's significance

transcends its time

beyond 1986,

raising questions

about sustaining

the spirit of people power

amidst new challenges.

The legacy and future

of people power

remind us

that the spirit of EDSA

evolves,

urging vigilance

and commitment

to unity

and non-violent resistance.

You know,

drawing inspiration

from history,

and stories

and, you know,

series like

Avatar The Last Airbender,

we are called

to take action

to carry the flame

of people power forward,

adapting its principles

to meet

today's challenges.

This reflection

is not merely

just a retrospective,

but more importantly,

a clarion call

to perpetuate

the values

of people power,

ensuring its relevance

and impact

for generations to come.

Pero wait lang ko ya, Kirby.

I know you're a huge fan

of Avatar,

but what's the point

of all of this?

Through the lens

of Avatar The Last Airbender,

we uncover the depth

of the EDSA

people power movement,

debunking misconceptions

and highlighting

its global significance.

This comparison

shines light

on EDSA's complexity,

its impact,

and the undying relevance

of its lessons.

Avatar The Last Airbender

and EDSA people power

share themes

of unity,

of solidarity,

resilience,

and the pursuit

of democracy,

emphasizing

the universal struggle

for peace and justice.

These narratives

inspire us

to ponder

the future of people power,

urging us

to consider

how its spirit

will evolve

to meet the new challenges

in the Philippines

and beyond.

The question now stands,

you know,

how will we apply

the lessons

and the wisdom

of EDSA and the Avatar

in today's world,

you know,

ensuring that

the flames

of collective action

endures

and, you know,

burn brighter

in the face

of the ever-evolving

struggles

for peace

and democracy.

You know,

this reflection,

it's not just

a throwback to the past,

it's not just

looking back at history,

but a forward-thinking

exploration,

inviting us

to keep the spirit

of people power alive.

And, you know,

adapting its principles

to continue inspiring change

and nurturing a world

where democracy thrives,

where there is genuine peace

and justice

in our communities.

And that is it

for me today,

so let me know

what you think

about today's topic

in the comments below.

And actually,

if you've seen

the new series

or even the old series,

the old animation,

or the live-action version,

let us know

in the comments below

which, you know,

which moment

is your favorite

or which moments

are your favorite

because I know

I have a ton

of favorite moments

in the whole series.

And one last thing

before I go,

if you like this video

and learned a thing or two,

help me grow my channel

by sharing this video

to more people

so more people

can learn more

about our people's history,

culture,

and everything in between.

And if you want to support

my channel

and my research,

don't forget to check out

my books,

coloring books,

e-books,

and merch

about the fascinating history,

and the colorful cultures

of the Philippines

and Southeast Asia.

You may also help me

make more videos like this

by being my patron

on Patreon

or a member

of my YouTube channel.

So don't miss out

and join

our growing community today.

Check out the links below.

Dakal pong salamat,

maraming salamat po.

Daghang salamat,

terima kasih,

magsukot-sukot kayo.

See you next time

o yung Tagalog kita-kids

and yung kapampangan,

MikiTix,

and yung bahasa-Milayo,

Diyom palagi!

Thank you for watching!