8 Interesting Facts about Kartini's Letters

Kartini's ideas, as expressed in her letters, also inspired figures of the Indonesian national awakening, such as W.R Supratman, who composed the song "Ibu Kita Kartini" (Our Mother Kartini). The song depicted the essence of women's struggle for independence.

7. Revealed Kartini's desire to study in Europe

In Kartini's letters, her desire to continue her studies, especially in Europe, was revealed. However, unfortunately, she canceled these plans. Her intention and plan to study in the Netherlands eventually shifted to study in Batavia after being advised by Mrs. Abendanon that it was best for Kartini and her sister Rukmini. 

At 24, Raden Adjeng Kartini also intended to continue her studies to become a teacher in Batavia, but unfortunately, this plan was dashed when she had to get married. 

Even though the Dutch education department had opened the opportunity for Kartini and Rukmini to study in Batavia, this was revealed in a letter she sent to Mrs. Abendanon.

8. Controversy of Kartini's letters

Some doubted the authenticity of Kartini's letters. This suspicion arose because some believed that J.H. Abendanon, the Minister of Culture, Religion, and Crafts at the time, had fabricated Kartini's letters. 

The suspicion arose because Kartini's book was published during the Dutch colonial government's implementation of ethical politics in the Dutch East Indies, and Abendanon was involved and supported ethical politics. 

To this day, most of the original manuscripts of Kartini's letters are unknown. According to Sulastin Sutrisno, it’s difficult to trace the descendants of J.H. Abendanon through the Dutch government.