The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files
S4-E40 - Pirate Patriot & Guerilla Grandma: Huang Bamei - 黃八妹
Jan 23, 2025
Dive into the extraordinary life of Huang Bamei, a fierce guerrilla fighter known for her sharpshooting skills amidst the chaos of warlord China and World War II. Discover her transformation from a criminal to a national hero, combating both Japanese forces and communists. Explore her defiance against traditional roles as a child bride turned salt smuggler, and her impactful legacy as an advocate for orphaned children. Join in the conversation around her complex and controversial contributions to Taiwan's history, leaving a lasting mark on her nation's identity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Taiwan's Unlikely Hero
- When Taiwan abandoned the Dachen Islands in 1955, they needed a hero.
- They found Huang Bamei, a former pirate and guerrilla fighter, to boost morale.
Discovery of Huang Bamei
- Eryk Michael Smith learned about Huang Bamei from Kurt Singer's book "Spy Stories from Asia."
- The book described Huang as "the most fabulous woman" of the war.
The Author's Background
- Kurt Singer, author of the book about Huang, was an Austrian-American activist and spy.
- He had a colorful life, working against Nazi Germany and writing prolifically.