Indonesia is often called the world’s longest archipelago, comprising as it does, over 17,000 islands, running in a 3,200 mile long arc.  Once home to both Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, both of which left spectacular artifacts, Indonesia today is the world’s most populous Islamic country. Once known to Europeans as the “spice islands” Indonesia was a prize fought over by the Portuguese, the Spanish, the Dutch and the British all of whom wanted the riches brought by the spice trade. Indonesia is home to many indigenous species of animals, such as the orangutan and the Komodo dragon as well as elephants, tigers and leopards.  Today Indonesia is a developing country dealing with rapid population growth, ethnic revolts, and environmental destruction as well as with recent Islamic terrorists, while developing and using its rich resources to construct a better life for its citizens.  For more information on Indonesia, please click on the above buttons.