On August 17, 1945, Sukarno, the first President of Indonesia, declared the country's independence from Dutch colonial rule. This event, known as Sukarno's Proclamation, marked the beginning of Indonesia's struggle for sovereignty after years of foreign domination. The proclamation was read in Jakarta and emphasized the importance of freedom and self-determination for the Indonesian people. The declaration was a pivotal moment in Indonesian history, as it united various groups in the fight for independence. Following the proclamation, Indonesia faced challenges, including military confrontations with the Dutch, but it ultimately led to international recognition of its independence in 1949.