S4-E16 - Political Assassination Attempts, 1928-1970
Jul 18, 2024
auto_awesome
Delve into the world of political assassination attempts in Taiwan from 1928 to 1970, involving Japanese princes, Taiwanese activists, American generals, and more. Explore the failed attempts and the potential chaos that could have ensued. Discover the intricacies of historical events and the complex motivations behind these actions.
Assassination attempts in Taiwan have had varied motives and consequences, showing a complex political landscape.
Even failed assassination attempts can have unforeseen repercussions, highlighting the delicate balance of power.
Deep dives
Assassination Attempt on Japanese Prince Kuniyoshi in Taiwan in 1928
In 1928, a 23-year-old Korean named Cho Min Ha attempted to assassinate Japanese Prince Kuniyoshi in Taiwan. Armed with a dagger, Cho lunged towards the prince's car during a visit to Taichung but was thwarted by the prince's entourage. Despite the attack being unsuccessful, the incident led to political repercussions, including the resignations of top Japanese officials in Taiwan.
US Plans to Assassinate Chiang Kai-Shek
During World War II, General Joseph Stilwell discussed plans to assassinate Chiang Kai-Shek if he couldn't get along with him or replace him with a more manageable leader. These plans involved scenarios like inducing a faulty parachute jump or using undetectable toxins. However, these plans were not put into action, reflecting political tensions and strategic considerations of the time.
Assassination Attempt on Chiang Ching-kuo in New York in 1970
In 1970, Chiang Ching-kuo, the successor of Chiang Kai-Shek, survived an assassination attempt in New York City by Taiwanese graduate student Peter Huang. Despite a bullet narrowly missing Chiang's head during the attack at the Plaza Hotel, Huang and his accomplice managed to flee to Sweden. The aftermath saw Huang return to Taiwan years later and become involved in human rights work, eventually appointed as a national policy advisor for human rights by President Chen Shui-bian in 2000.
Japanese princes, Taiwanese activists, a Korean martyr, American generals and presidents, Chiang Kai-shek and his son Chiang Ching-kuo.
It’s an action-packed episode with an amazing cast of characters. These little-known Taiwan-related assassination attempts and plots will surprise you.
And, we hope, also please you that they failed. As Eryk passionately points put at the end of the episode, assassination, even of a "bad guy" target, can lead to a worse replacement and the unleashing of chaos.
PLEASE "LIKE" or "SUBSCRIBE" or give us 5-Stars... it really makes a difference! Thanks!