Pandeglang

History

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History and Development of Pandeglang: The Jewel of Central Banten

Origins and Etymology

The name "Pandeglang" has a unique historical root, etymologically derived from the words "Pande" (maker) and "Gelang" (bracelet). According to local legends closely associated with the Kingdom of Banten Girang, this region was once a center for metal craftsmen, particularly makers of cannon bracelets and royal jewelry. Another version mentions a figure named Ki Pandai who made a magical bracelet to encircle Mount Karang to protect the area from disaster. Administratively, Pandeglang is located in the "central" position of Banten Province, serving as a meeting point between the northern coast and the southern mountains, with an area of 2,792.04 km².

Colonial Era and People's Resistance

During the Dutch colonial period, Pandeglang played a strategic role as a logistics buffer zone. Based on Staatsblad Number 81 of 1848, this region was designated as a regency-level administrative center under the Banten Residency. Local figures like Raden Tumenggung Aria Candra Negara became the first regents who organized the bureaucracy. However, colonial stability was often disrupted by peasant and religious leader rebellions. One heroic event was the involvement of Pandeglang figures in the Cilegon Uprising of 1888, where pesantren networks on the slopes of Mount Karang became bases for intellectual and military movements against colonial oppression.

Independence Era and Local Politics

Entering the independence era, Pandeglang witnessed the transition of power from Japan to the Republic of Indonesia. In October 1945, youth leaders such as K.H. Achmad Khatib and K.H. Syam'un consolidated the people's strength to secure this region from Dutch military aggression post-proclamation. Pandeglang was officially recognized as a regency under West Java Province (before the expansion of Banten) through Law Number 14 of 1950. Its unique geography, bordering three main regions—Serang Regency, Lebak Regency, and the Indian Ocean (although its city center is non-coastal)—made it the last line of defense during the physical revolution.

Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Pandeglang's rich history is reflected in the presence of prehistoric and Islamic sites. The Batu Tulis Muruy site in Menes District shows the influence of ancient scripts, while the Grand Mosque of Ar-Rahman is a symbol of the spread of Islam brought by the saints. Local traditions such as "Rampak Bedug" are not just percussion music but a manifestation of the cultural resistance and religiosity of the Pandeglang community that remains preserved to this day. Additionally, the extreme tradition of "Debus" reflects the physical and mental resilience of past Banten warriors.

Modern Development and National Significance

Currently, Pandeglang is developing into a center for agriculture and historical tourism in Banten. Although its administrative city center is landlocked (non-coastal), the regency's territory includes the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ujung Kulon National Park. Contemporary infrastructure development continues to uphold the noble values of "Pandeglang Berkah" (Blessed Pandeglang), a slogan that integrates spiritual history with economic progress. Its historical connection with the Sultanate of Banten makes Pandeglang an important pillar in preserving the cultural identity of the Banten people on a national scale.