The Indonesian Archipelago is a region of great linguistic wealth. Hundreds of distinct languages are found, and many ethnic groups have their own scripts and writing traditions. Over time, languages and styles of expression have been juxtaposed and blended, history and experience being fashioned into recorded texts and oral traditions. The materials of Indonesian manuscripts show incredible variety - bamboo, bark, and palm leaf to name but a few - reflecting the natural world in which these traditions evolved. With political unification the idea of uniting the nation through a common language, Malay, emerged. Now named 'Indonesian', this language was used by politicians, military strategists and creative writers to spread the idea of "Indonesia". In the years since the birth of the Republic, Indonesians have witnessed massive changes in their education system and communications network. As the nation has developed, so too have the language and literature of the country. As the 21st century approaches, Indonesian literature now stands on its own.