The handover of sovereignty in 1945 led to conflicts between mainlanders and Taiwanese due to differing perceptions and cultural influences.
The 228 Incident and subsequent white terror period resulted in brutal repression and widespread violence against dissenting Taiwanese citizens.
Deep dives
ROC takeover of Taiwan and the legal handover
Following the signing of the surrender document in 1945, sovereignty over Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China. The agreement, based on decisions made at the Cairo Conference, stated that Taiwan would be under the control of the Republic of China. Despite the disagreement of the residents, this handover was considered legal under international law.
Mainland perspective on Taiwan and its people
Mainlanders held differing views about the residents of Taiwan. Mainlanders were unsure of how to perceive the Taiwanese, as they had been under Japanese colonial rule for the past 50 years and had absorbed Japanese cultural influence. Many mainlanders believed that the Taiwanese had been poisoned by Japanese rule, leading to suspicion and contempt. This perception led to conflicts and clashes between mainlanders and Taiwanese.
Chen Yi's administration and corruption
Chen Yi, who was appointed as the chief executive in charge of Taiwan, quickly gained a reputation for corruption. He filled his administration with mainlanders, particularly those from Chichiang Province. Corruption was prevalent, with abuses of power and disrespect towards the Taiwanese. There were instances of asset seizure, violence, and a significant increase in crime, as the new police force prioritized personal gain over enforcing the law.
The 228 Incident and its aftermath
The 228 Incident, sparked by the killing of a Taiwanese street vendor by Monopoly Bureau officers, led to massive protests against the government. The demonstrations spread across Taiwan, with Taiwanese citizens taking control of the administration in many cities. However, Chanyi responded with brutal repression, leading to thousands of deaths. This massacre was followed by an extended period of white terror, where arrests, executions, and violence continued as the government crushed any further dissent.
This Part 8 episode of the History of Taiwan series runs a little longer than usual. About 50 minutes. This time we'll look at the period immediately following the handover of sovereignty in 1945. Needless to say, things didn't go so smoothly and the tone was set for the next several decades on Taiwan. The smash-and-grab events following Retrocession and the infamous 228 Incident are discussed in this episode. It's going to be a long hard slog from here on out. Wishing you all a great rest of the year and a Fab 2023.