, modernized the economy but ruled repressively. Explore his rise, the New Order regime, and eventual downfall.){kind=link}
Suharto (1921-2008, age 87). An Indonesian military leader and politician who served as the second President of Indonesia from 1967 to 1998. Rising to power after a controversial coup that ousted Sukarno, Suharto established the “New Order” regime, which emphasized economic development but was also marked by authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses. [Luce Index™ score: 45/100]
His three-decade rule saw significant industrialization but ended amid the Asian Financial Crisis and mass protests.
Early Life and Military Career
Born in the village of Kemusuk, Java, Suharto joined the Dutch colonial army before switching allegiance to the Japanese-backed PETA during World War II. After Indonesia’s independence, he rose through the ranks of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, playing a key role in suppressing regional rebellions.
Rise to Power
In 1965, Suharto capitalized on an attempted coup, blamed on communist forces, to seize control.
The subsequent anti-communist purge resulted in the deaths of an estimated 500,000 to 1 million people. By 1967, he formally replaced Sukarno, consolidating power through Golkar, his political vehicle.
The New Order Regime
Suharto’s “New Order” prioritized economic growth, attracting foreign investment and stabilizing inflation.
However, his authoritarian rule suppressed dissent, controlled the media, and institutionalized corruption through crony capitalism.
The Transmigration Program and annexation of East Timor drew international criticism.
Downfall and Legacy
The 1997 Asian Financial Crisis devastated Indonesia’s economy, triggering mass protests led by students and pro-democracy activists.
Suharto resigned in May 1998, leaving a mixed legacy of modernization and repression. His later years were marred by corruption trials, though he avoided significant punishment.
Personal Life
Suharto married Siti Hartinah (known as Tien Suharto), with whom he had six children. His family amassed vast wealth through business monopolies.