Kesultanan Ternate | Full Version | Kesultanan Nusantara

Summary

The history of the Sultanate of Ternate traces its rise from a 12th-century spice trade hub to its eventual downfall under Dutch colonial rule. Initially known as the Kingdom of Moloku, Ternate became a center of commerce, attracting merchants from across Asia and the Middle East. Islam spread through the region in the 14th century, and under Sultan Zainal Abidin, Ternate became the first Islamic Sultanate in Maluku. Despite thriving through trade and military success, Ternate's independence waned as European powers, especially the Portuguese and Dutch, vied for control. In 1683, after centuries of resistance, Ternate formally submitted to Dutch rule, marking the end of its sovereignty.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ternate was a key international trade hub in the 12th century, primarily known for its spice trade, particularly cloves and nutmeg.
• 😀 The region was initially governed by the Moloku Kingdom, which eventually evolved into the Sultanate of Ternate in 1257.
• 😀 The Islamic influence in Ternate began in the 14th century, with Sultan Zainal Abidin becoming the first Sultan after converting to Islam.
• 😀 Ternate formed part of the Moloku Kie Raha confederation in the 14th century, consisting of four kingdoms: Ternate, Tidore, Jailolo, and Bacan.
• 😀 European trade powers, particularly the Portuguese and later the Dutch, sought control over the spice-rich Maluku Islands, leading to conflict with Ternate.
• 😀 Sultan Zainal Abidin is credited with spreading Islam in Ternate, forming Islamic educational institutions, and fostering political unity in the region.
• 😀 Ternate experienced its golden age under Sultan Baabullah, who expanded the Sultanate's power and influence across the Maluku Islands and beyond.
• 😀 Ternate's military and political strength was severely challenged by the Portuguese, who gained control in the 16th century but were eventually expelled by Sultan Baabullah.
• 😀 The Dutch East India Company (VOC) arrived in the early 1600s, establishing trade relations with Ternate, eventually leading to the decline of Ternate’s independence.
• 😀 By 1683, the Sultanate of Ternate was forced to acknowledge Dutch rule, marking the end of its sovereignty as the island became a vassal state of the Dutch Empire.

Q & A

What was the significance of Ternate in the 12th century?

In the 12th century, Ternate was a major international trade port known for its valuable commodities, such as spices and cloves. It attracted traders from China, Java, India, and Arabia, making it an important center of commerce in the region.

Why did the local elders form a kingdom in Ternate in 1257?

The elders of the region formed a kingdom to protect Ternate and its surrounding islands, as well as to safeguard local traders from increasing competition due to the growing international trade in spices.

Who was the first ruler of the Kingdom of Moloku, and what was his role in the region's development?

The first ruler of the Kingdom of Moloku was Momolo Chiko, who governed under the title 'Bakmi Syur Malamo'. He was instrumental in developing the kingdom into a prosperous agricultural and trading hub, contributing to the growth of Ternate as an important center of commerce.

What was the significance of the establishment of the Moloku Kieraha alliance in 1322?

The Moloku Kieraha alliance, established in 1322, was a pact between four regional kingdoms—Ternate, Tidore, Jailolo, and Bacan—to foster unity and collaboration for mutual defense and trade protection, enhancing the region's political and economic stability.

How did Islam spread to Ternate during the 14th century?

Islam spread to Ternate primarily through Arab traders and religious teachers from regions like Samudra Pasai, Malacca, and Gresik. In 1492, Zainal Abidin, the Sultan of Ternate, embraced Islam after studying the religion in Gresik, helping to further the spread of Islam across the Maluku Islands.

What role did Sultan Zainal Abidin play in the Islamization of Ternate?

Sultan Zainal Abidin was crucial in the Islamization of Ternate. After converting to Islam, he introduced Islamic governance, established pesantren (Islamic schools), and supported the establishment of the Bobato institution, which helped spread Islam across the Maluku region.

How did the arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century affect Ternate?

The arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century initially resulted in a peaceful relationship with Sultan Bayan Sirullah, who allowed the Portuguese to establish a fort in Ternate. However, tensions escalated due to the Portuguese's involvement in internal conflicts, leading to wars and power struggles.

What was the outcome of the first war between Ternate and Tidore supported by the Portuguese and Spanish?

The first war between Ternate and Tidore, fueled by Portuguese and Spanish support, was halted by the Treaty of Saragosa in 1529, which temporarily eased tensions. However, internal conflicts continued, leading to further instability in Ternate.

How did Sultan Baabullah's reign influence Ternate's power and Islamization?

Sultan Baabullah's reign marked the golden age of Ternate, with his successful military campaigns against the Portuguese and the expansion of Ternate's influence. He also played a significant role in spreading Islam, extending Ternate's control over regions like Java, Sumatra, and Papua.

What led to the decline of Ternate's power and its eventual submission to Dutch rule in 1683?

The decline of Ternate's power resulted from internal struggles, European competition for control over spice trade, and the growing influence of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). In 1683, Sultan Sibori Amsterdam formally recognized Dutch sovereignty, marking the end of Ternate's independence.