SEJARAH KELAM INDONESIA. "MASA BERSIAP!" Genosida? #HistorytellingJASMERAH

Summary

The video explores Indonesia’s turbulent post-independence period known as 'Masa Bersiap' (1945-1950), a time of violent conflict between the newly declared Republic of Indonesia and returning Dutch colonizers. As Indonesia fought for its freedom, nationalistic fervor led to attacks on not only Dutch forces but also on Indo-Dutch, Chinese, and locals perceived as collaborators. The chaos and revenge-driven violence resulted in thousands of deaths. The video delves into the complexities and controversial nature of this period, emphasizing the human cost of Indonesia's struggle for independence, and the eventual recognition of its sovereignty by the Dutch in 1949.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 'Masa Bersiap' (Preparation Period) refers to the tumultuous period between 1945 and 1950 when Indonesia struggled to maintain its independence after proclaiming it, facing aggression and conflicts.
• 😀 The period was marked by significant violence, where both Dutch colonialists and Indonesian citizens, including Indo-Dutch, Japanese, and Chinese communities, suffered casualties.
• 😀 The term 'Masa Bersiap' is often attributed to the Dutch, but its exact origin is unclear. Some say it came from the Republic’s preparations for attacks, while others suggest it came from Dutch military patrols.
• 😀 The Indonesian people, after declaring independence, were met with resistance from the Dutch, who refused to recognize the independence and attempted to regain control over Indonesia.
• 😀 The Dutch attempted to reassert their authority by appointing General HB Van Mook as Governor of Batavia, representing the Dutch Indies Civil Administration (NICA) instead of the VOC.
• 😀 The Dutch tried to negotiate with Indonesia, suggesting a 'Republic of the United States of Indonesia' to maintain ties with the Netherlands politically and economically, which was rejected by Indonesians, who sought full independence.
• 😀 After Indonesia’s proclamation of independence, Indonesian youth groups began to rebel, attacking Dutch people, Indo-Dutch, and anyone perceived to be pro-colonial.
• 😀 Violence started in Depok, a city that was home to Dutch and Indo-Dutch settlers, and spread to other areas in Java and parts of Sumatra.
• 😀 From October 7, 1945, Indonesians began blocking trade and isolating the Dutch and their collaborators, including attacking Chinese and other groups seen as pro-colonial.
• 😀 The violence escalated with looting, destruction of property, and human rights abuses, including attacks on women and mass imprisonments, especially in Depok and surrounding areas.
• 😀 Despite the chaotic violence, Indonesia’s leaders, like Prime Minister Sutan Syahrir, became targets of reprisal attacks, but the violence began to subside after the start of the Dutch military aggressions in 1947 and 1948.
• 😀 By December 27, 1949, after widespread international pressure, the Dutch finally recognized Indonesia’s independence, ending years of conflict. The death toll from the 'Masa Bersiap' was estimated to be around 20,000, but the exact number is uncertain due to the chaotic administration at the time.

Q & A

What is the 'Masa Bersiap' period in Indonesian history?

The 'Masa Bersiap' period refers to a critical and violent phase from 1945 to 1950, when Indonesia was newly independent and struggled to maintain its sovereignty. It is often referred to as the National Revolution or Military Aggression period, marked by aggressive conflicts, including clashes between the Indonesian people and the Dutch.

Why was the term 'Masa Bersiap' used by the Dutch?

'Masa Bersiap' was a term used by the Dutch to describe the violent and chaotic period in Indonesia following its declaration of independence. It is thought to have derived from either the Indonesian resistance's use of the word 'siap' (ready) before attacks, or from Dutch patrols warning 'bersiap' to discipline native people.

How did the Indonesian people react after the declaration of independence in 1945?

Following Indonesia's proclamation of independence, the Indonesian people, particularly youth and rebels, began aggressive actions against the Dutch and their supporters, including Indo-Dutch, Chinese, and others associated with colonialism. This response was driven by nationalistic fervor and a desire for retribution for past colonial rule.

What role did the Dutch government play during the 'Masa Bersiap' period?

During the 'Masa Bersiap' period, the Dutch attempted to regain control over Indonesia by appointing General H.B. Van Mook as governor of Batavia and introducing the Netherlands Indies Civil Administration (NICA). They proposed a federal Indonesia, but this was rejected by the Indonesian people, who were firm in their desire for full independence.

What were the causes of the violence during the 'Masa Bersiap' period?

The violence during the 'Masa Bersiap' period stemmed from a combination of frustration over colonial rule, a desire for independence, and the resistance to Dutch attempts to reclaim authority. The conflict was further fueled by resentment, fear, and revenge, particularly by groups that had suffered under Dutch or Japanese rule.

How did the youth and resistance groups contribute to the violence during this period?

Indonesian youth and resistance groups, self-identified as 'pemuda' or pioneers, initiated attacks on Dutch and Indo-Dutch individuals, as well as those perceived as collaborators. They were responsible for raids, killings, and theft, particularly targeting areas like Depok, which was a center for Dutch settlers and Indo-Europeans.

What was the significance of Depok during the 'Masa Bersiap' period?

Depok was significant because it was home to a large population of Dutch settlers and Indo-Europeans. During the 'Masa Bersiap' period, Depok became a focal point for violence, where attacks and looting occurred against the Dutch, Indo-Dutch, Chinese, and others who were seen as collaborators.

What happened to the Dutch and their supporters during the attacks in Depok?

During the attacks in Depok, Dutch citizens, Indo-Dutch, and other Europeans were captured, looted, and sometimes killed. They were often detained, stripped of their valuables, and humiliated. Some were taken as prisoners and sent to camps, while their properties were looted and destroyed.

What was the role of the Japanese military and the Pelopor in the violence?

The Pelopor, a semi-military organization formed by the Japanese, played a role in looting homes and participating in violent acts during the 'Masa Bersiap' period. The organization targeted former colonial figures and collaborators, often acting as enforcers of the nationalist sentiment and revenge against those seen as complicit in colonial oppression.

How did the Indonesian government respond to the violence during 'Masa Bersiap'?

The Indonesian government, led by figures like Sukarno and Sutan Sjahrir, condemned the violence but also faced challenges in controlling it. The violence largely resulted from spontaneous acts by youth and resistance groups, and though the government did not officially organize the aggression, the situation deteriorated as the Dutch and their supporters retaliated in turn.