Final answer:
Indonesia was colonized by the Dutch in the 17th century, occupied by the Japanese during World War II, and granted independence in 1949. The country then moved toward authoritarian rule, with Sukarno and Suharto as the prominent leaders.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under its colonial ruler, Indonesia experienced different forms of treatment. The Dutch colonized Indonesia in the 17th century until the Japanese occupied the country during World War II. After the Japanese surrendered in 1945, Indonesia declared its independence and was granted independence in 1949. However, the country quickly moved toward authoritarian rule. Sukarno and Suharto were the prominent authoritarian leaders during this time period.
Indonesia, once known as the Dutch East Indies, faced exploitation and hardship under both Dutch and Japanese colonial rule. Abuse and disruption of customs were common during the occupation, leading to a struggle for independence that was achieved in 1949. Post-independence saw authoritarian rule and continued struggles with national identity and governance.
Indonesia was treated as a colony primarily for resource extraction during its time under Dutch and Japanese rule. Initially called the Dutch East Indies, it was a significant source of wealth for the Dutch empire. However, when Japan occupied Indonesia during World War II, the colonial exploitation continued, albeit under Japanese control. The Japanese occupation led to hardship and abuse for local people and disruption of social structures and customs. It wasn't until after the Japanese surrender in 1945 that Indonesia declared its independence, which was officially recognized by the Dutch in 1949 after a period of conflict. The post-colonial era for Indonesia still reflected some aspects of its colonial past, including authoritarian rule for several decades under Presidents Sukarno and Suharto, amidst episodes of violent conflict and suppression of dissent.