aDepartment of History, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan 20155, Indonesia
*Corresponding author, e-mail:
budi.agustono@usu.ac.id
Abstract
Before diving into the specifics of East Sumatra, it is essential to understand the broader context of the Japanese Occupation in Indonesia. The Japanese arrived in 1942, driven by a desire to expand their empire. Japanese forces quickly established a military government, implementing strict regulations and replacing Dutch authorities. This overhaul aimed to consolidate power and suppress anti-Japanese sentiment among the population. One way the Japanese maintained control was through propaganda. The Kita-Sumatora-Sinbun Newspaper was crucial in disseminating information aligned with Japanese interests, showcasing the regime’s attempts to manipulate public perception. It catered to the local population, providing news often tailored to reflect Japanese accomplishments and the supposed benefits of their rule. This article thoroughly examines the conditions in East Sumatra using historical research methodology to provide a clear illustration of life under Japanese rule.
Keywords
East Sumatra, Japanese occupation, Kita-Sumatora-Sinbun, newspaper