Why were the Kalangs of Java known as a community of skilled forest – cutters?

1. The Kalangs of Java were a community of skilled forest cutters and shifting cultivators.
2. In 1755, when the Mataram Kingdom of Java split, about 6,000 Kalang families were equally divided between the two kingdoms.
3. Without their expertise, it would have been difficult to harvest teak and for the kings to build their palaces.
4. When the Dutch began to gain control over the forests in the 18^th century, they tried to make the kalangs work under them.
5. In 1770, the Kalangs resisted by attacking a Dutch fort at Joana, but the uprising was suppressed.

Read More – Explain any five features of Dutch Scientific Forestry in Java.