A Brief History of Indonesia: From the Golden Age to Independence

Summary

This video explores Indonesia’s history beyond colonization, examining a rich past rooted in classical eras before foreign domination. It delves into the era of ancient kingdoms like Majapahit and Sriwijaya, where independence, strong leadership, law enforcement, and cultural unity thrived. The script highlights the philosophical foundation of 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' (Unity in Diversity), and contrasts it with the later colonial experience. The presenter reflects on how Indonesia's classical golden age serves as an inspiring blueprint for a modern, prosperous, and tolerant nation, urging future generations to reconnect with this proud heritage and move beyond colonial remnants.

Takeaways

• 😀 Indonesia's colonial history is often exaggerated; the Dutch colonized Indonesia for 131.5 years, not 350 years as commonly believed.
• 😀 The classical period of Indonesia, particularly the Majapahit era, was marked by prosperity, strong leadership, and territorial unity across the archipelago.
• 😀 Indonesia's classical kingdoms (such as Srivijaya, Majapahit, and Medang) utilized the 'mandala system', which allowed for decentralized governance and diverse cultures within one empire.
• 😀 Law enforcement and justice were central to classical Indonesia, with a strict legal code that punished corruption harshly and ensured fairness for all citizens, regardless of their class or status.
• 😀 Corruption in classical Indonesia was considered a severe crime, with the death penalty for corruptors, and even their families were held accountable.
• 😀 The classical period saw significant religious tolerance, where different faiths coexisted, and temples for various religions were built side by side.
• 😀 The concept of 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' (Unity in Diversity) originated during the Majapahit era and was later adopted as Indonesia’s national motto.
• 😀 During its golden age, Majapahit was a thriving, independent nation-state with strong international trade relations, especially with China and India.
• 😀 The classical era of Indonesia was not just about economic prosperity but also about social welfare, with laws designed to protect small farmers and maintain land productivity.
• 😀 Indonesia's pre-colonial kingdoms were highly advanced in governance, law, and trade, with the archipelago recognized as an equal in the global community.
• 😀 The modern nation of Indonesia, according to historical speeches by figures like Soekarno, should emulate the best aspects of its classical kingdoms, such as independence, tolerance, and justice.

Q & A

What is the significance of the classical era in Indonesia's history?

The classical era in Indonesia’s history was marked by thriving independent kingdoms like Srivijaya and Majapahit, which emphasized strong governance, law enforcement, cultural unity, and independence. These kingdoms maintained powerful trade networks, robust legal systems, and a high level of social and religious tolerance, setting a foundation for Indonesia's modern identity.

How long was Indonesia actually colonized by the Dutch?

Indonesia was colonized by the Dutch for approximately 131 years, not 350 years as commonly believed. The period of Dutch colonization began officially in 1800, after the Dutch East India Company (VOC) went bankrupt.

What is the mandala system and how did it shape ancient Indonesian governance?

The mandala system was a form of governance used by ancient kingdoms like Majapahit, where territories were loosely united under a powerful king, called the maharaja. The system was characterized by cultural unity and mutual respect among independent territories. It did not rely on fixed geographic boundaries but rather on the charisma and leadership of the king, which allowed the empire to grow through diplomacy, military conquest, and trade cooperation.

What role did law and order play in the success of Majapahit?

In Majapahit, law and order were central to maintaining social harmony and prosperity. The kingdom had a strict legal code that held everyone, including the elite, accountable. Corruption was heavily penalized, sometimes with the death penalty, and law enforcement was efficient, ensuring justice for all social classes. This focus on law and order helped foster stability and growth.

How did ancient Indonesian societies approach corruption?

Ancient Indonesian societies, particularly during the Majapahit period, viewed corruption as a serious crime that could destabilize society. Corrupt officials faced severe punishments, including death. The wealth of convicted corruptors was confiscated, and even their families were punished. This strict approach to corruption was seen as essential for maintaining order and prosperity in the kingdom.

What is the meaning of 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' and how does it relate to Indonesia's history?

'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,' meaning 'Unity in Diversity,' was a concept promoted during the Majapahit era. It highlighted the acceptance and celebration of cultural, religious, and social differences within the kingdom. This philosophy has since become a cornerstone of modern Indonesia’s national identity, emphasizing tolerance and unity among its diverse population.

Why is it said that colonialism in Indonesia began as 'invited colonialism'?

Colonialism in Indonesia, particularly under the Dutch East India Company (VOC), began through agreements made with local rulers, who sought foreign help in times of rebellion or succession disputes. This led to the gradual erosion of sovereignty, as colonial powers gained control through these agreements, often with the approval of the local authorities. This phenomenon is referred to as 'invited colonialism.'

What were some of the achievements of Majapahit during its golden age?

During its golden age, Majapahit was known for its strong leadership, cultural prosperity, and legal systems. The kingdom established a vast trade network, maintained a high degree of religious and cultural tolerance, and had an advanced legal system that punished corruption and upheld social justice. Additionally, Majapahit’s influence stretched across the archipelago and even reached parts of Southeast Asia, exemplifying Indonesia’s historical independence.

What were the key cultural and social practices that fostered unity in Majapahit?

Majapahit fostered unity through a combination of legal justice, economic cooperation, and religious tolerance. The kingdom supported different religious practices side by side, and its laws emphasized the protection of farmers and social equity. The concept of the mandala system helped unify diverse territories under a common cultural and political framework, promoting mutual respect and cooperation among different regions.

How does the history of Majapahit and Srivijaya relate to modern Indonesia's vision of a nation-state?

Modern Indonesia’s founding fathers, particularly Ir. Soekarno, were inspired by the governance models of ancient kingdoms like Srivijaya and Majapahit. Soekarno saw these empires as examples of independent and unified nations that were not bound by colonial powers. He envisioned a modern Indonesia that mirrored the strength, unity, and cultural diversity of these ancient kingdoms, which ultimately influenced the formation of the Republic of Indonesia.