This thesis explores the representation of the Dutch-Indonesian conflict – between August 1945 and December 1949 – within the American media. In contrast with the popular belief of a consistent and...Show moreThis thesis explores the representation of the Dutch-Indonesian conflict – between August 1945 and December 1949 – within the American media. In contrast with the popular belief of a consistent and principled anti-colonialist approach, current research establishes that the terms in which the press portrayed the conflict were not only developing over time but, in addition, were to a great extent dependent on pragmatic interests rather than idealistic beliefs. Studying media coverage parallel to U.S. policy-making will furthermore show that the press provided the parameters for the State Department’s actions.Show less
