The History of Taiwan on Animated Map

Summary

The history of China-Taiwan relations is marked by a series of occupations and conflicts. Initially inhabited by Austronesians and later ruled by various colonial powers, Taiwan was annexed by the Qing Dynasty in the 17th century. After Japan's control from 1895-1945, Taiwan returned to China. However, after the Chinese Civil War, the defeated Kuomintang fled to Taiwan, establishing a separate government. Today, Taiwan is a democratic and economically advanced society, while China remains a totalitarian regime seeking to reclaim Taiwan, leading to ongoing tensions and potential conflict.

Takeaways

• 🚀 Chinese missiles are flying over Taiwan amid military exercises by China's armed forces, raising fears of a potential invasion and a third world war.
• 📜 Taiwan has a complex history of control, from Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and Japanese rule, with significant influence from Chinese refugees and local Austronesians.
• ⚔️ The island's strategic importance was highlighted by the Dutch and Spanish colonies in the 17th century, leading to the Dutch victory and the establishment of plantations.
• 👑 Taiwan was annexed by the Qing Dynasty after a series of conflicts and became part of China for several centuries until the Japanese occupation in 1895.
• 💥 The Chinese Civil War between the Kuomintang and the Chinese Communist Party led to the establishment of the People's Republic of China on the mainland and the retreat of Kuomintang to Taiwan.
• 🇺🇸 The United States has historically supported Taiwan, passing the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979, which promises military support in the event of an attack.
• 🗳️ Taiwan transitioned to democracy in the late 20th century, with significant political reforms leading to free parliamentary elections in 1992.
• 💻 Taiwan experienced an economic boom, known as the Taiwan Economic Miracle, focusing on high-tech production and semiconductor manufacturing.
• 🔴 China underwent significant economic reforms under Deng Xiaoping, transitioning to a capitalist mode of production, while maintaining a totalitarian political regime.
• 🌐 The international status of Taiwan is contentious, with China pressuring countries to sever diplomatic relations with Taiwan, while Taiwan seeks greater international recognition.

Q & A

What was the initial attempt by the Chinese authorities to incorporate Taiwan?

The first attempts by the Chinese authorities to incorporate Taiwan were made in 610.

Who ruled Taiwan before it came under Chinese control?

Before the 17th century, the majority of Taiwan’s population was Austronesian. The island was also under Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish control at different times.

How did the Qing Dynasty come to annex Taiwan?

The Qing Dynasty annexed Taiwan after defeating Zheng Chenggong, who had moved to Taiwan with his fleet and created the Kingdom of Tungning. The Qing Dynasty managed to capture Taiwan after 22 years.

What was the impact of the Opium Wars on China's control over Taiwan?

The Opium Wars weakened China significantly, leading to a series of defeats that culminated in the loss of Taiwan to Japan after the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895.

What changes occurred in Taiwan after it was handed over to Japan in 1895?

Taiwan was ruled by a Japanese government led by a governor-general who introduced japanification, integrating Japanese culture and administrative practices.

How did the Chinese Civil War affect Taiwan?

During the Chinese Civil War, the Kuomintang, led by Chiang Kai-shek, evacuated to Taiwan after being defeated by the Chinese Communist Party. They established a separate government there.

What was the role of the United States in the Taiwan-China conflict?

The United States provided substantial support to Taiwan, including arms and financial assistance, and passed the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979 to ensure military support in the event of an attack.

How did Taiwan transition to a democratic system?

After Chiang Kai-shek’s death, his son Chiang Ching-Kuo and later Lee Teng-hui led Taiwan towards democratization, culminating in the first free parliamentary elections in 1992.

What was the economic development of Taiwan like post-World War II?

Taiwan developed a capitalist economy, focusing on high-tech production, attracting foreign investments, and implementing land reforms. This led to rapid economic growth known as the Taiwan Economic Miracle.

What is the current political stance of Taiwan regarding its independence from China?

The Democratic Progressive Party, led by President Tsai Ing-wen since 2016, advocates for Taiwan's independence and international recognition, rejecting unification with China.