The Javanese are the largest tribe in Indonesia. The Javanese is also the most influential tribe in almost all aspects of life. They have a vital role in many fields, such as government, commerce, education, entrepreneurship, agriculture and many more. This happens because Javanese is one of the oldest tribes in
Indonesia. Javanese population numbered about
90 million and mostly live in the island of Java.
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The Java island map |
The Javanese also has a variety of cultures (example things about Java can be seen in the table at the end of post). These cultures is largely a relic of ancient Mataram Kingdom, the Kingdom of Mataram was once centered in the city of Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo). In addition, Javanese culture was also influenced by the legacy of the Majapahit Kingdom.
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Javanese people creating "Wayang" |
Characteristic of the Javanese is a gentle, hardworking and resilient. As one of the oldest tribes in Indonesia, the Javanese also had the most advanced civilization in Indonesia. This gives a big influence on policy making in the government of Indonesia. Presidents who have led the Indonesian government is also largely a Javanese people, they are Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (Indonesia's current president), Suharto, Gus Doer (or Abdurakhman Wakhid).
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Javanese Dance |
As well as the livelihoods of most of Indonesian, Javanese majority of their livelihood as well as farmers. But now, many Javanese which began to move their livelihoods as farmers, they are continuously started trying to become small traders, looking for work in Jakarta (Indonesia capital), entrepreneurship and labor for the company. This was triggered by a prolonged economic crisis.
No | Javanese | Its name in Javanese |
1 | Dances | Srimpi, Bedhaya, Gambyong, Wireng, Prawirayuda, Wayang-Purwa Mahabarata-Ramayana |
2 | Languages | Banyumas, Yogyakarta, Surabaya |
3 | Foods | Mendoan, Gudeg, Rujak Cingur |
4 | Special Events (Traditional Ceremonies) | Sekatenan, Labuhan Pisungsung Jalanidhi |
5 | Figures | Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono, Kris Dayanti (Singer) |