Births on January 2

Lolo Soetoro, Indonesian geographer and academic (d. 1987)

Lolo Soetoro, an Indonesian national whose full name was Lolo Soetoro Mangunharjo or Mangundikardjo, is widely recognized as the stepfather of Barack Obama, who would later become the 44th President of the United States. Born on January 2, 1935, and passing away on March 2, 1987, Soetoro played a significant role in Obama's formative years, particularly during his childhood in Indonesia.

Known officially in Indonesia as Lolo Sutoro under the Ejaan yang Disempurnakan (EYD) or Perfected Spelling system, which is the standardized orthography for the Indonesian language, his name reflects the linguistic evolution of Indonesian. His Javanese pronunciation, [ˈlɒlɒ suːˈtɒrɒː], further emphasizes his cultural roots within Indonesia, specifically the Javanese ethnic group, which is the largest in the country.

Lolo Soetoro's Background and Connection to Barack Obama

Lolo Soetoro's journey began as a student in Indonesia before he moved to the United States to pursue higher education. It was during his studies at the University of Hawaii in Manoa that he met Stanley Ann Dunham, Barack Obama's mother. Their connection blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1967. Following their nuptials, the family, including young Barack Obama, relocated to Jakarta, Indonesia, in the same year.

In Jakarta, Lolo Soetoro worked as a government relations officer for Union Oil, an American oil company, and later for Caltex, contributing to the oil and gas industry in Indonesia. His career provided the family with a stable environment in the bustling capital city. This period, from 1967 to 1971, was crucial for Barack Obama, who spent his early childhood years living with his mother and stepfather. He attended local Indonesian schools, including the Menteng 01 Elementary School, where he learned the Indonesian language and was exposed to the vibrant local culture and diverse population.

Influence on Barack Obama's Early Life

The four years Barack Obama spent in Indonesia under Lolo Soetoro's guardianship were profoundly impactful, shaping his global perspective and understanding of different cultures. This unique upbringing provided him with a firsthand experience of a non-Western society, influencing his later views on international relations and cultural diversity. Lolo Soetoro, through his presence and the environment he helped create, offered Obama a deep immersion into Indonesian life, which is often cited as a cornerstone of his multicultural identity. Although Ann Dunham and Lolo Soetoro eventually divorced in 1980, Lolo remained a part of Obama's extended family narrative, symbolizing a significant chapter in his personal history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lolo Soetoro

Who was Lolo Soetoro?

Lolo Soetoro was an Indonesian national, born Lolo Soetoro Mangunharjo, who became the stepfather of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. He was married to Obama's mother, Stanley Ann Dunham.

When and where did Barack Obama live with Lolo Soetoro?

Barack Obama lived with Lolo Soetoro and his mother in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 1967 to 1971, during his early childhood years (ages 6 to 10).

What was Lolo Soetoro's profession?

Lolo Soetoro worked as a government relations officer for American oil companies, including Union Oil and later Caltex, while residing in Jakarta, Indonesia.

How did Lolo Soetoro influence Barack Obama?

Lolo Soetoro's role provided Obama with a unique cross-cultural upbringing in Indonesia, exposing him to a different language, culture, and society. This experience is considered foundational to Obama's broad international perspective and understanding of global diversity.