The 1965 Failed Coup in Indonesia

The Attempted Coup by Lieutenant Colonel Untung

Overview of the Coup Attempt

The **1965 coup** in Indonesia, spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel **Untung**, marked a significant turning point in the nation’s history. On the night of September 30, 1965, a group of junior officers led by Untung attempted to overthrow the government of President Sukarno, motivated by fears of a military coup against the communist party and the rise of anti-communism. The coup aimed to abduct and murder several high-ranking generals, initiating an upheaval that would alter the country's political landscape.

Key Events of the Coup

The coup commenced late at night with the **seizure of key government buildings** in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Lieutenant Colonel Untung and his resisters proclaim themselves as the "30 September Movement" (Gerakan 30 September), asserting their task to prevent an impending coup against Sukarno. However, their plan faltered as loyal troops quickly rallied to the generals, resulting in a swift counteroffensive that dismantled the coup.

The Aftermath of the Coup Attempt

Consequences and Military Takeover

The failed coup opened the floodgates for a violent crackdown against perceived communists and their sympathizers throughout Indonesia. Within months, more than 500,000 individuals were massacred as the military, led by General Suharto, capitalized on the chaos, portraying the communists as a significant threat. Sukarno's regime was ultimately dismantled by the military, leading to his ousting in 1967.

The Rise of Suharto and New Order Regime

As a direct result of the coup attempt, General Suharto emerged as a pivotal figure in Indonesian politics, consolidating power and establishing the **New Order** regime. Under Suharto's leadership, Indonesia underwent extensive economic reforms and modernization but also faced severe repression of political dissent and civil liberties, leaving a legacy that is still analyzed and debated today.

Fun Fact

Untung's Legacy

Lieutenant Colonel **Untung** was eventually captured and tried but his motivations and the events surrounding the coup have been subject to much speculation and debate, showing the complexities of Indonesian politics during this tumultuous period.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Indonesian History

For a deeper dive into this crucial period, consider reading "Indonesia: A History" by John Roosa or "The Jakarta Method: Washington's Anticommunist Crusade and the Mass Murder of 1965-66" by Vincent Bevins.