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historic origin of the balisong/butterfly knife
The precise historic origin of the balisong, or butterfly knife, is
debated by enthusiasts and historians, but the modern version is widely credited to the Philippines. Two main theories exist, one pointing to the Philippines and another to Europe, possibly France.
Philippine origin theory
This theory credits the Philippines, specifically the province of Batangas, as the birthplace of the balisong.
- Location: The town of Taal and the village of Balisong in Batangas are known as the original manufacturing centers.
- Name: One popular theory suggests the name balisong is a combination of the Tagalog words baling ("to break" or "folding") and sungay ("horn"), referring to the use of carved carabao horn for early handles. Another theory points to the village of Balisong as the source of the name.
- Early use: In the Philippines, the balisong was used as both a utility tool for daily tasks like farming and fishing and as a weapon for self-defense.
- Refinement: Even those who acknowledge a possible European influence agree that the unique design and the one-handed "flipping" techniques were perfected in the Philippines, where the knife became predominantly a weapon and a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship.
- Historical context: A master blacksmith named Perfecto de Leon is often credited with crafting the first modern balisong in 1905, though oral legends suggest a much earlier origin around 800 A.D. There is no solid evidence to support the older claim.
European origin theory
This competing theory suggests the design was adapted from a European tool and brought to the Philippines.
- French connection: Proponents of this theory note the striking resemblance between the balisong and the pied du roi, a French folding ruler dating back to the 1700s.
- Spread to the Philippines: It is speculated that Spanish sailors, who were allied with France at the time, introduced the tool to the Philippines.
- Utilitarian purpose: The European designs, including similar knives found in 19th-century England, were mainly utilitarian tools and did not feature the rapid-opening techniques characteristic of the Filipino balisong.
Global spread
The balisong began its journey to international recognition during the American occupation of the Philippines in the early 20th century. American service members brought the knives home, where their unique design sparked interest among collectors and martial arts enthusiasts. This led to its mass production and eventual fame in global popular culture.
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