Part 5/12:

Bali's complex history informs its present predicament. Once a proud Hindu kingdom, Bali fell under Dutch colonization, notable for violent resistance like the Puputan war—mass suicides by local kings and their followers rather than surrendering to colonizers. Post-independence, Bali became a prime tourist destination under Indonesia’s Suharto regime, with tourism growth overshadowing the island’s cultural and historical authenticity.