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Abstract

This paper is a working paper for a research project in its initial stage. Using an article by German historian Stefan Berger on the role of national archives in the creation of master historical narratives in Europe as its inspiration, I look at the same concept for postcolonial Southeast Asia. Particular attention is paid to Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. Due to the colonial past of these countries, what is held in their national archives includes many records created by the former colonial administrations. How this affects the creation of master historical narratives will be addressed in this research project. I also use my project to expand the definition of what is seen as the role of archives in creating master narratives by focusing on archival content and other forms of influence.

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