Suharto
Suharto was the second President of Indonesia, holding office from 1967 to 1998. Here is an overview of his life, political career, and legacy:
Early Life
- Born on June 8, 1921, in Kemusuk, Yogyakarta, Dutch East Indies.
- His early life was marked by poverty, and he received limited formal education. However, he joined the Dutch colonial army before the Japanese occupation during World War II.
- During the Japanese occupation, Suharto trained in the PETA (Pembela Tanah Air), a military training program for Indonesians.
Rise to Power
- After Indonesia's independence in 1945, Suharto served in the newly formed Indonesian Army.
- He played a significant role in the military operations against Dutch forces and in subsequent internal conflicts.
- In 1965, he led the army's response to the alleged communist coup attempt, which resulted in a violent anti-communist purge. This event significantly increased his political power.
- Following the purge, Suharto maneuvered to sideline President Sukarno and assumed the presidency in March 1967.
Presidency
- Suharto's rule was characterized by economic development, political stability, and authoritarian governance.
- He implemented the New Order policy, which focused on economic modernization, industrialization, and anti-communism.
- His government is credited with significant economic growth, known as the "Indonesian Miracle," during the 1970s and 1980s, largely due to oil exports and foreign investment.
- However, this period was also marked by widespread human rights abuses, including the suppression of political opposition, censorship, and corruption.
- Suharto's rule was also known for the Transmigration Program, where millions of people were relocated from densely populated Java to less populated regions like Kalimantan, Sumatra, and Papua.
Downfall
- The Asian Financial Crisis of 1997-1998 severely impacted Indonesia's economy, leading to social unrest and calls for reform.
- Amidst economic collapse and increasing protests, Suharto resigned on May 21, 1998, after 32 years in power.
Legacy
- Suharto's legacy is complex; while he brought economic development and stability, his era is also remembered for authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights violations.
- Post-presidency, he faced numerous legal challenges but was never prosecuted due to health issues.
- He died on January 27, 2008, in Jakarta from multiple organ failure.
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