Onderafdeeling Samosir (1907-1942)

Abstract

This research discusses the history of Onderafdeeling Samosir from 1907 to 1942. The study aims to elucidate Samosir's conditions before 1907, the formation of Onderafdeeling Samosir, and its development until 1942. The research methodology employed is historical research, incorporating heuristic, critical, interpretative, and historiographical approaches. Data were gathered through literature review and archival study, analyzing sources such as books, previous research, and archives from the Dutch East Indies colonial period. The findings reveal that prior to 1907, Samosir was the ancestral home of the Batak Toba people and already had its own governance before the Dutch arrival. Moreover, the establishment of Onderafdeeling Samosir in 1907 illustrates Dutch influence on Samosir, particularly through the Christianization process by the missionaries. The study also found that Onderafdeeling Samosir was part of the Afdeeling Bataklanden, with the lowest economic status influenced by its climate and geographic location. Regarding its development until 1947, the research indicates that the colonial government undertook infrastructure projects and economic policies aimed at improving the economic conditions of the Samosir community, including road construction, canals, and water transport access.