Indonesia's Independence
How did Indonesia become a free country? Walk through the key moments that led to 17 August 1945.
The story
For 350 years, Indonesia was ruled by the Netherlands (called "Dutch East Indies"). Then in 1942, Japan took over during World War II. When Japan was about to lose the war in August 1945, Indonesian leaders saw their chance.
Timeline
BPUPKI finishes its work
A committee finished drafting the Pancasila philosophy and the constitution that would guide the new nation.
Soekarno and Hatta return from Saigon
Japan surrendered to the Allies on 15 August. Indonesian youth leaders urged Soekarno to declare independence immediately — before the Dutch could return.
The Rengasdengklok incident
Youth leaders took Soekarno and Hatta to a small town called Rengasdengklok to pressure them to declare independence without waiting for Japan's permission.
📢 The Proclamation
At Soekarno's house on Jalan Pegangsaan Timur No. 56, Jakarta, Soekarno read the short proclamation: "We, the people of Indonesia, hereby declare our independence." The red-and-white flag was raised for the first time.
War of Independence
The Dutch tried to take back control. For 4 years, Indonesians fought back — with weapons and with diplomacy. Many heroes gave their lives.
🇳🇱 Dutch recognize Indonesia
The Netherlands officially recognized Indonesia's sovereignty. The new nation joined the United Nations in 1950.
📜 The Proclamation text
"Proklamasi kami, bangsa Indonesia. Hal ini kami sampaikan dengan sesungguhnya. Perihal pemindahan kekuasaan dan lain-lain dilaksanakan dengan cara sederhana dan dalam tempo sesingkat-singkatnya."
Jakarta, 17 Agustus 1945 — Soekarno / Hatta
Did you know?
- The flag was sewn by Fatmawati, Soekarno's wife, from a white bedsheet and red dye.
- August 17th is celebrated every year as Independence Day — with flag-raising ceremonies, neighborhood games, and decorations.
- The original proclamation text was typed by Sayuti Melik on a typewriter.
- Indonesia's national motto is "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" — "Unity in Diversity" — meaning many cultures, one nation.