Monument Indië Nederland

"The Monument Indië-Nederland, located in a parkland near Olympiaplein in Amsterdam-Zuid, has an eventful history. Originally erected in honour of General J.B. van Heutsz, commander of the Dutch East Indies Army and governor general of the Dutch East Indies, it was renamed in 2004 to reflect the complex relationship between the Netherlands and the East Indies during the colonial period. The female figure, flanked by two little lions, is known as ""Mien with the little dogs"" and has been the centre of decades of controversy. This is mainly because of the dubious reputation of Van Heutsz, nicknamed "The Butcher of Aceh", who was known for his toughness in the anti-colonial struggle in Aceh.

Funding for the monument came from surplus funds collected after Van Heutsz's death for his grave in the Nieuwe Ooster Cemetery. His actions enabled the exploitation of the region's mineral resources, but are viewed critically today.

In 1984, the monument was the target of a bomb attack, which failed, however, because the explosives did not go off. Despite several telephone warnings, the police did not find the bomb. A day later, the explosives were found by chance by a teenager, who was slightly injured when they partially detonated.

The redesignation of the monument in 2004 as a reminder of the Dutch-Indian relationship during the colonial period reflects the ongoing discussion and reassessment of this complex and often painful history."