the development of human technology taken place beginning 10,000 BC according to the ASPRO chronology (between 4,500 and 2,000 BC). The evidence of old stone tools in Zamboanga del Norte may indicate a late Neolithic presence. Burial jars, both earthen and glazed, as well as Chinese celadons, have been found in caves, together with shell bracelets, beads, and gold ornaments. Many of the ceramic wares are from the Yuan and Ming periods. Evidently, there was a long history of trade between the Subanon and the Chinese long before the latter's contact with Islam. Early history For some time before the Spaniards came during the period of colonial rule, the Subanon had trade contacts with the Tausug, Maguindanao and the Maranao. As they were under the protection of the Sultanate of Maguindanao, they also provided materials, warriors and help in the war efforts of the sultanate. They were also entitled to share in the war spoils. Spanish colonial era The coming of Spain to the Philippines as a colonial power complicated the picture. The Spanish colonial government sought to extend its sovereignty over the whole of southern Philippines. Declaring its intention to "protect" the un-Christianized, non-Muslim Subanon of the Sibuguey (now Zamboanga) peninsula, the government under General Valeriano Weyler constructed a series of fortifications across the Tukuran isthmus "for the purpose of shutting out the Malanao Moros... from the Subanon country, and preventing further destructive raids upon the peaceful and industrious peasants of these hills". Spanish military control of the Tukuran garrison and fortifications ended in 1899, under the terms of the Treaty of Paris. American colonial era Before the American government could put in its occupation troops, surprised how the Subanon had willingly allowed the new colonizers to construct to their lands without a clamor or fight, the Moro from the lake region went across the isthmus, and attacked the Subanon and battle Americans in the two districts of Zamboanga and Misamis to prove their intention to fight the Americans intent on their territory. These renewed raids took their toll of lives and property, and many Subanon were even carried off into bondage by the invaders. The military garrison was taken over by Moro forces, and a kota (fort) and several villages were established on the isthmus for years. The place was abandoned, however, when the much American expeditionary forces appeared in October 1910. Post-independence era Despite the long history