Description: A documentary about East Timorese independence leader Jose Ramos Horta, who won a Nobel Peace Prize for his work, The Diplomat traces Horta's life over a quarter century of activism on behalf of his native country. In 1975, Horta worked as a freedom fighter in East Timor during the withdrawal of Portuguese colonists, and was named foreign minister of his country before going into exile after the invasion and annexation of East Timor by Indonesia. Over the years, Horta worked ceaselessly as a spokesman for his occupied country, petitioning the United Nations and various democracies for support. After the 1991 massacre of civilians by the Indonesian army, Horta's cause drew international attention, and finally, in 1999, the resignation of Indonesia's President Suharto led to a referendum on the issue of independence for East Timor. Following the huge success of the vote, however, the newly independent country endured a terrifying rampage by pro-Indonesian forces, which set a very dramatic backdrop for Horta's return to his homeland.~ Rebecca Flint Marx, All Movie Guide
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