He was the founder of the Taman Siswa system of education, which promoted modernisation but also encouraged indigenous Indonesian culture. Dewantoro was also a member of Sarekat Islam (Islamic Association) and a founder of the socialist party. Dewantoro was exiled to the Netherlands for writing an article in 1913. During his five years of exile he was deeply impressed by the educational reformer, Maria Montessori. After his return he established the first Montessori school in 1922 and named it Taman Siswa, garden of students. Taman Siswa schools, have flourished since then. These schools emphasise traditional skills and values of Javanese life, particularly music and dance. After his death he has been acclaimed as a national hero. Dewantoro Ki Hajar was born in Jakarta.