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The Online NewsHourthe web site of the newshour with jim lehrer
East Timor Independence

Celebrations, Challenges Greet New East Timor
A key U.N. official and an election monitor discuss East Timor's transition from war-torn province to independent state.
Update: President Xanana Gusmao and his government took office Monday amid celebrations, but challenges still lay ahead for the world's newest nation. (5/20/02)
1999 & BEYOND
Map
Rebuilding and Recovery
After peacekeeping troops ended rampant militia violence, the half-island territory began to rebuild its shattered infrastructure and, as a United Nations protectorate, prepare for eventual independence.
NewsHour Archive
AUGUST - OCTOBER 1999
Militia Rampage
A violent militia uprising flared after the East Timorese voted to secede from Indonesia, killing more than 1,000 and displacing some 100,000. The violence continues for nearly three weeks before an Australian-led United Nations peacekeeping force restores order.
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BEFORE AUGUST 1999
Under Indonesian Rule
After years of resistance and growing international support, the East Timorese are allowed to vote on whether to remain part of Indonesia or declare independence.
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