"How can one explain the fall of a long-term 'strongman' in May 1998, who had not only ruled for thirty-two years but had also been unanimously elected seventy-two days earlier? Was he the victim of a power struggle among the political elite, including the military, or was his fall simply the result of a momentum that had built up over many years and which exploded with the onset of the financial crisis? Equally importantly, what changes have occurred in Indonesia following the collapse of the 'new order'?

Is it 'Suhartoism without Suharto' or is a new Indonesia really emerging? What are the internal and external changes brought about by the new regime, and what does the future hold for Indonesia and its people?" "These critical questions and issues are addressed by this book."--BOOK JACKET.