Political Dynamics in West Sumatra during the Indonesian War of Independence, 1945–1950

Nur’ Aini; Surya Aymanda Nababan; Taslim Batubara

doi:10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.204

Authors

Nur’ Aini Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara
Surya Aymanda Nababan Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara
Taslim Batubara Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Panca Budi, Perdagangan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v5i6.204

Keywords:

Anti-colonial nationalism, Indonesian War of Independence, political dynamics, republican authority, West Sumatra

Abstract

This study examines the political dynamics of West Sumatra during the Indonesian War of Independence (1945–1950) and explores the region’s role in consolidating the Republic of Indonesia. The research contributes to existing scholarship by highlighting local political actors, institutions, and community mobilization as key elements in sustaining the independence movement. Using a qualitative historical approach, the study analyzes concepts of political resistance, regional governance, and nationalist mobilization through archival records, contemporary newspapers, government documents, and secondary literature collected from the period 1945–1950 and examined through source criticism, interpretation, and historiography. The findings reveal that West Sumatra served as a strategic political center where cooperation among local leaders, the military, and civil society strengthened republican authority and reinforced anti-colonial resistance. These developments significantly contributed to the formation of Indonesia’s early political culture and national resilience.

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