Autore: Rui Feijó
In: Asia Maior. XXX / 2019
Abstract

This article has two main aims: to give a comprehensive view of the transformation of Timor-Leste from an almost forgotten colony of Portugal to the first independent country of the 21st century, and to analyse its attempt, as an independent state, to create a nation based on democracy. This very long and winding road underwent four stages which are contemplated in turn: the late years of Portuguese colonialism, the quarter-century neo-colonial domination by the Republic of Indonesia, the two-and-a-half year transitional period under the auspices of the United Nations, and the period after the official restoration of independence on 20 May 2002.

Rui Feijó | Centre for Social Studies, University of Coimbra Institute for Contemporary History, NOVA University of Lisboa | ruifeijo@gmail.com