This is the prologue to our five-part Indonesian War of Independence Miniseries. It sets the stage of brutal colonial repression, a growing sense of Indonesian Nationalism and ultimately the desire to be free.
In Indonesia, following the end of the Second World War catalyses the end of brutal Japanese rule. Their exit prompts the Dutch to begin restoring their prewar colonial status over the archipelago. But nationalist spirits are brewing, their opportunity to proclaim Indonesian independence is transpiring.
The Indonesian War of Independence is heavily fuelled by the gangs of youngsters who go by the name of Pemuda. They engage in clandestine guerrilla fighting as their revolution takes a violent turn.
The Dutch are desperate to regain control over their colony as the Lingadjatti Treaty failed to deliver. They launch a brutal military offensive which they mask as 'police actions' in an attempt to satisfy the international community.
The international community forces the Dutch to end their first colonial offensive with the Renville Agreement. However, as the Dutch, the Indonesian Republicans and the multiple other groups continue fighting, an impasse enfolds.
The Dutch reconquered most of the Indonesian cities on Java and Sumatra, but the Indonesian War of Independence continues as the International community grows tired of the Dutch attitude.