What’s New:

A recent analysis of a skull with ‘execution-style’ wounds from colonial Indonesia unveils grim possibilities of enslavement, forced tribal warfare, or suspected sorcery targeting a woman during the Dutch colonial period. Published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, this study illuminates a dark chapter in Indonesia’s history.

Why it Matters:

The discovery provides a tangible link to the traumatic colonial era in Indonesia, highlighting the violent nature of slavery and warfare during the period. The research adds depth to our understanding of the social and cultural dynamics of the time, including the persecution of women accused of sorcery. This study holds importance not only for historical knowledge but also for recognizing past injustices that have shaped societies.

Key Points:

• The skull, originating from Biak Island in Papua, was examined using digital and ultraviolet photography, revealing the victim’s age and the brutal manner of her death.
• Researchers propose that the woman could have been a casualty in slave raids, or tribal warfare, considering her injuries are consistent with ‘execution-style’ wounds.
• Female sorcerers, at the time labeled as ‘mon,’ were specific targets in these raids, indicating that the woman may have been killed under such suspicion.
• The colonial context of Indonesia under European dominance, particularly the Dutch rule, saw extensive enslavement and exploitation of local populations.
• The study aims to inspire future research into this understudied period, bringing to light the oppressed narratives of colonial histories.

Deeper Context:

The examination of the skull suggests a tragic demise at a time when Indonesia was grappling with European colonialism, particularly the effects of Dutch control. The utilization of a parang, a weapon standard among Papuan tribes in the era, implies indigenous involvement, whether under duress or as part of the colonial framework. This finding emphasizes the complex interplay of power, violence, and survival in colonial societies.

The Bigger Picture:

This singular archaeological discovery exposes the broader repercussions of colonialism and how it perpetuated systemic violence, especially against women deemed outcasts or threats. By investigating these individual stories, the historical narrative expands to include the marginalized voices that often remain unheard. Ultimately, such research is crucial for building a more comprehensive and just account of history.

This story was first published on jpost.com.