The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files

Popeye, Prison, Soy Sauce and Satire: Bo Yang 柏楊 – S5-E17

8 snips
Jun 26, 2025
Explore the life of Bo Yang, a provocative Taiwanese commentator whose unexpected imprisonment stemmed from translating a Popeye cartoon. Delve into the role of political satire in critiquing figures like Chiang Kai-shek during turbulent times. Hear about Bo Yang's harrowing experiences in prison and the change in public perception towards political prisoners. His infamous book, 'The Ugly Chinaman,' challenged cultural norms and sparked intense reactions, influencing Taiwan's political landscape and raising questions about identity.
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ANECDOTE

Popeye Comic Led to Imprisonment

  • Bo Yang was sentenced to nine years in prison for translating a seemingly mild Popeye comic strip.
  • The strip humorously implied authoritarian family rule in Taiwan, offending Chiang Kai-shek and his son.
ANECDOTE

Political Prisoner’s Delayed Release

  • After Chiang Kai-shek's death, Bo Yang's sentence was reduced but he was kept under house arrest on Green Island.
  • International human rights pressure eventually led to his release in 1977.
ANECDOTE

Bo Yang's Rebellious Youth

  • Bo Yang's rebellious personality led to multiple expulsions from schools and a revoked degree.
  • Despite setbacks, he became a respected journalist and novelist in Taiwan.
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