The Historian News: Srivijaya Empire - Summary

Introduction

• Title: The Historian News - Srivijaya Empire
• Author: Syaifudin S.Pd
• Edition: Edisi Sejarah Indonesia Masa Klasik

Establishment of the Srivijaya Kingdom

• Time Period: 7th Century
• Evidence: Kedukan Bukit inscription in Palembang (682)
• Location: Strong kingdom in Sumatra
• Origin of Name: Sanskrit words "Sri" (radiant) and "Wijaya" (victory)

Srivijaya's Reign: 7th to 14th Centuries

• Maritime Dominance: Controlled major Southeast Asian trade routes in the 9th and 10th centuries
• Territorial Influence: Spread over Java, Sumatra, Malaya Peninsula, Thailand, Cambodia, Philippines, and Vietnam
• Economic Strategy: Imposed custom duties on passing ships, profited from port and warehouse services

Political Life under Srivijaya

• Golden Age: 8th and 9th centuries under Balaputradewa
• Historical Connections: Linked to the Syailendra dynasty of Java
• Conflicts: Tensions and conflicts with Mataram kingdom

Social and Economic Factors

• Geographic Advantage: Strategic location on the trade route between China and India
• Economic Sources: Trade of goods like ivory, camphor, gold; taxes on shipping
• Cultural Impact: Center of Mahayana Buddhism in Southeast Asia

Prominent Rulers

1. Dapunta Hyang Sri Jayanasa: Founder, expanded territories
2. Balaputradewa: Enhanced maritime trade and Buddhist ties
3. Sri Sanggarama Wijayatunggawarman: Faced betrayal and attacks

Decline of the Srivijaya Empire

• Factors: Ineffective leadership, geographical shifts, reduced trade, loss of territories, external attacks
• Significant Attacks: Darmawangsa (992), Cholamandala (1017), Kertanegara's Pamalayu expedition (1270), Majapahit (1337)

Cultural Legacy

• Influence on Education: Indications of a focus on educating citizens
• Speculations on Preventing Decline: Hypothetical strategies to avoid downfall
• Relation to Modern Indonesia: Discussed as a precursor to the modern Indonesian state

Conclusion

• Legacy: The Srivijaya Empire's influence on Southeast Asia's maritime trade, political dynamics, and cultural development during its reign remains a significant part of Indonesian history.