Indonesia (1/4)
This is also part of this series: Journeys from the Centre of the Earth (4)
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Subjects:
Anthropology, Geography, Geology, History, Volcanoes, World Religions |
Grade Level: JrH-Adult
Producer: BBC
Closed Captioned: No |
Running Time: 50 mins
Country of Origin: Great Britain
Study Guide: No |
Copyright Date: 2006
Available in French: No
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Iain visits Indonesia, home to the planet's most awesome range of volcanoes, which have had a huge impact in shaping not just Indonesia, but the whole world. He scales Mt Merapi in Java and looks at the warning systems they have in place. Since initial filming, the volcano has erupted violently, and the crew has been back to film exclusive footage of the recent events. When Toba, on Sumatra, erupted 75,000 years ago, the ensuing “volcanic winter” wiped out 75 per cent of the inhabitants – there were only about 10,000 people left. But volcanoes don't just bring death – they also bring life. In Indonesia, volcanic soils were perfect for nutmeg which could only be found there in the Middle Ages. The race to find and exploit the Spice Islands led to the discovery of America and the first circumnavigation of the world. Indonesia's volcanoes have also played a crucial part in the evolution of species and have been fundamental to religion, politics and culture in the region. Iain Stewart is on a mission to discover how. |
Links: http://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcfour/documentaries/features/journeys-centre-earth.shtml
