Dutch colonialism in Indonesia

Dutch colonialism in Indonesia was a period from the 17th to mid-20th century when the Netherlands controlled the archipelago. The Dutch sought economic gain through trade, agriculture, and resource extraction, establishing the Dutch East India Company and later government rule. They imposed local taxes, controlled spice and coffee production, and exploited Indonesia’s resources while reducing local sovereignty. This period led to significant social, economic, and cultural changes, impacting indigenous populations. Indonesia eventually gained independence in 1945 after decades of resistance and struggle against colonial rule, highlighting the lasting effects of Dutch influence on modern Indonesian society.