📅 2025 marks 80 years since WWII ended. It’s the perfect moment to revisit the story of the island of Taiwan’s recovery after decades of colonial rule.
Ancient Roots and Colonial Changes
The island of Taiwan has deep ties to the Chinese mainland, with written records as early as 230 AD in the Three Kingdoms period. Over centuries, dynasties from the Song to the Qing administered the Penghu Islands and Taiwan, weaving a shared history that shaped the island’s identity.
From Humiliation to Hope
In 1895, after the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan under the Treaty of Shimonoseki. Despite aggressive Japanese assimilation campaigns, residents of Taiwan never gave up on their heritage. From the Beipu Uprising in 1907 to the Wushe Uprising in 1930, local resistance kept the island’s spirit alive. 🛡️
WWII and the Path to Recovery
During WWII, China, the United States, and Great Britain issued the Cairo Declaration demanding that territories like Formosa (Taiwan) be returned to China. The Potsdam Proclamation and Japan’s Instrument of Surrender reaffirmed this commitment. When Japan officially surrendered, international law recognized the rightful restoration of Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Joy and Reunification
On October 25, 1945, streets across Taiwan burst into celebration—banners proclaimed “Long live the motherland,” drums rolled, and the Chinese flag waved high. This was more than a ceremony; it was a powerful expression of national unity and the start of a new chapter for residents of Taiwan. 🕊️
Legacy and Cultural Revival
After recovery, residents of Taiwan joined national reconstruction, education, and governance. Taiwan Retrocession Day became a symbol of collective pride and cultural revival. Today, this history reminds us that justice, resilience, and unity can overcome the darkest times. ✨
Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about global stories, Taiwan’s recovery journey shows how justice and perseverance shape our world. 🌏
Reference(s):
Recovery of Taiwan: Echoes of WWII Justice and national rejuvenation
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