The role of newspapers published in North Sumatra during Indonesia's independence struggle between 1916-1925: A discourse analysis [version 1; peer review: 1 approved, 3 approved with reservations]

Background: In the history of Indonesian independence, newspapers
not only functioned as a medium of information but also as a tool for
the struggle for independence. This is because of the role of
newspapers in bringing out the spirit of nationalism and the concept
of “nation” to the Indonesian people through various writings and
reports in each edition. This study aims to describe the form of
Indonesia's struggle for independence in newspapers published in
North Sumatra in 1916-1925.
Methods: This research uses the critical discourse analysis
method. The research data are in the form of texts published in
thirteen indigenous newspapers published in North Sumatra in 1916-
1925. Data analysis used three structures of Teun A. van Dijk's
discourse analysis model, namely: macrostructure, superstructure,
and microstructure.
Results: From 1910-1925 there were 24 indigenous newspapers
published in North Sumatra. Of these, there were 13 newspapers
demanding Indonesian independence: Soeara Djawa, Pewarta Deli, Ben
ih Merdeka, Perempoean Bergerak, Soeara Bondjol, Sinar
Zaman, Orgaan Bataksche Studiefonds, Andalas, Mandailing, Warta
Timur, Al Moektabas, Tjermin Karo, Soeara Batak. These newspapers
published articles that fought for Indonesian
independence by demanding Indonesian independence openly,
criticizing various policies of the Dutch Colonial Government, and
building awareness of Indonesian nationalism.
Conclusion: The role of newspapers in the struggle for Indonesian
independence in North Sumatra in 1916-1925 can be seen from
the findings of 51 articles demanding Indonesia's independence from
Dutch colonialism, criticizing the policies of the Dutch colonial
government, and building the spirit of nationalism to encourage the
Indonesian people to fight for their independence.