The Timorese struggle for independence primarily refers to the fight of the people of East Timor against Indonesian occupation, which began in 1975. Following a brief period of independence after the Portuguese decolonization, Indonesia invaded and annexed East Timor, leading to a violent conflict that lasted for decades. The Timorese resistance, led by groups like FRETILIN, sought to reclaim their sovereignty and gain international support. In 1999, after years of conflict and a significant humanitarian crisis, a United Nations-sponsored referendum allowed the Timorese to vote for independence. The overwhelming majority chose independence, leading to the establishment of Timor-Leste as a sovereign nation in 2002. This marked the end of a long struggle for self-determination and highlighted the resilience of the Timorese people.