Overview
This lecture discusses the Battle of Medan Area (1945-1947), a key Indonesian struggle against Dutch and Allied efforts to reestablish colonial rule after the proclamation of independence.
Background to Indonesian Independence
- After Japan surrendered in WWII (August 15, 1945), Indonesia declared independence on August 17, 1945.
- The Netherlands and Allies did not recognize this independence, seeing Indonesia as still Dutch territory.
- Allies (including the Netherlands and Britain) formed AFNEI to manage the situation in former Japanese colonies, including Indonesia.
The Arrival of Allied and Dutch Forces
- AFNEI arrived in Indonesia with NICA (Dutch Civil Administration) to maintain order and restore Dutch control.
- Allied and Dutch presence aroused suspicion among Indonesians.
- Indonesian Youth Front (BPEI) and TKR (People's Security Army) were formed in Medan as a response.
Escalation to Armed Conflict
- Tensions rose after Dutch soldiers disrespected Indonesian symbols, leading to violence in Medan (October 13, 1945).
- Armed incidents spread to neighboring cities; the Siantar Hotel Incident on October 15, 1945, resulted in casualties on both sides.
- On October 18, 1945, the Allies demanded Indonesians surrender their weapons, but the order was ignored, sparking further resistance.
The Battle of Medan Area
- Allies and Dutch marked "fixed boundaries" in Medan, threatening to shoot anyone crossing them.
- Indonesian fighters used guerrilla tactics and local knowledge to resist occupation.
- Continued back-and-forth fighting led to significant civilian and military casualties.
Ceasefire Attempts and Aftermath
- Multiple ceasefire attempts failed; both sides violated agreements.
- The battle continued until the Indonesian government ordered a ceasefire on February 15, 1947.
- Subsequent negotiations set boundaries between Indonesian and Dutch-controlled areas.
- Dutch launched further military aggression; true sovereignty was only recognized in December 1949 following UN intervention.
Commemoration and Legacy
- Medan Area Battle Monument (Apollo Monument) and Trepes Struggle Monument commemorate the resistance.
- Tatengger stones in Medan serve as historical markers of events and victims.
Key Terms & Definitions
- AFNEI — Allied Forces Netherlands East Indies, tasked with managing post-Japanese-occupation Indonesia.
- NICA — Netherlands Indies Civil Administration, Dutch body aiming to restore colonial power.
- TKR — People's Security Army, Indonesian military force formed after independence.
- Medan Area — Region in Medan marked by Allies as their territory during the conflict.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the role of AFNEI, NICA, and TKR in Indonesian independence.
- Visit or research the Medan Area monuments for deeper understanding.
- Prepare for next lecture on battles in Central Java.