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West Papuans should be free
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Date Posted: 01:51:21 05/05/04 Wed
Mark Worths Documentary 'Land of the Morning Star' will be screened in Australia this month. For details go to
http://www.westpapuanews.com/articles/publish/article_710.shtml
although the web site details for venues information is incorrect, you will have to email to find out venue details in each city.
Land of the Morning Star reveals the turbulent history of the extraordinary country of New Guinea, swept up in the power-play of international politics. The western half of the island of New Guinea has been known by many names including Netherlands New Guinea, West Papua, Irian Jaya and Papua. It is an extraordinary place where snow-capped mountains drain into massive rivers and 250 languages are spoken. Yet,
despite its wild beauty and rich culture, it remains strangely forgotten.
For centuries, the world has jostled for control of this rugged, isolated region, with its abundant natural resources and strategic position. First outside contact was with the Muslims of Malacca, who came in search of slaves and the prized feathers of birds of paradise. European spice traders staking out colonial territory followed them. By the mid 1800s, the Dutch had secured their claim. Then during World War Two, the sleepy outpost was transformed into a massive US military base. By the 1960s, President Sukarno had made the area the 26th province of Indonesia. Today,
if transmigration continues, the indigenous Melanesian people are set to become a minority in their own land. Through eyewitness accounts and rare archival film, this fascinating documentary paints a picture that is
intimate in detail but epic in scope. It is a sweeping saga of colonial ambitions, cold war sellouts and fervent nationalism, which highlights the role of players such as Australia and the UN at crucial points. By providing a background to this complex story, this timely film helps us understand the reality of life today in the land of the morning star.
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