Indonesian Mass Killings of 1965-66
The Indonesian mass killings of 1965–66 represent a dark chapter in the history of Indonesia, characterized by widespread anti-communist purges and political violence. These events followed the failed coup attempt by the 30 September Movement on September 30, 1965, which was blamed on the Communist Party of Indonesia (PKI).
Background
The PKI was one of the largest communist parties outside of the Soviet Union and China, and its influence in the 1960s was significant in Indonesia. The political climate of Indonesia during this period was heavily influenced by the Cold War dynamics, with heightened tensions between communism and anti-communism, which were reflected in the global political sphere.
The Killings
The killings began in October 1965 in the capital city of Jakarta and spread rapidly to other regions such as Central and Eastern Java, Bali, and parts of Sumatra. In regions like Aceh, where PKI support was robust, the violence was particularly intense. Historical documents from Army Archives in Indonesia, uncovered by historian Jess Melvin, provide evidence of systematic, race-based killings in Aceh during this period.
Role of the Military
The Indonesian Army, under the leadership of General Suharto, played a pivotal role in the orchestration of the mass killings. The army capitalized on existing communal tensions and portrayed communists as national threats, thus rallying support for the purges. Suharto would later become the President of Indonesia, marking the start of the "New Order" regime.
Civilian Participation
A significant aspect of the mass killings was the involvement of Indonesian civilians, driven by a mix of political, religious, and personal motivations. Groups such as the youth wing of Nahdlatul Ulama, Ansor, were active participants in anti-communist violence, targeting ethnic Chinese and members of the PKI.
International Context
The international reaction to these events was complex, with several Western nations, particularly the United States, allegedly providing tacit support to the Indonesian military's actions. This support was part of a broader geopolitical strategy to curb the influence of communism in Southeast Asia.
Cultural and Social Impact
The events of 1965–66 have left a lasting impact on Indonesian society and the collective memory of its people. Films such as The Act of Killing and The Look of Silence, directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, have brought international attention to the atrocities and the narratives of those who perpetrated and survived the mass killings.