The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files

In the summer of 1972, Chiang Kai-shek vanished. He missed Double Ten parades. However, Madame Chiang (Soong Mei-ling), and the step-son she loathed (future president Chiang Ching-kuo) carried on as if all was well. There were no press leaks as the president of the Republic of China lay in a coma for six months.   In this episode of Formosa Files, we uncover the cover-up, and tell you about an odd dinner where medical staff waited to pounce and revive the aging dictator. Plus, we meet Jeanette Kung: a cigar-smoking, men’s clothing enthusiast who might today be a gay icon of some kind, except for the fact that she possessed an…um…“challenging personality.”SUPPORT the show by rating, commenting, liking, subscribing, and following on social media.

Supreme Court judges, bus conductors, chemists, even radio stars — in this episode, we look at how women were making their mark in 1960s Taiwan. Our source is a 1963 issue of the Free China Review, published in the peak “Free China” years, when most of the so‑called “Taiwanese” women featured were actually from China. Still, even in this repressive period, you could argue women here had more chances to lead, earn, and succeed than many of their peers in the West.DO US A FAVOR and leave a review or comment (on Apple, Spotify, YT, or our website). It really helps. Thanks.

This Bits and Pieces episode blows from here to there—just like Typhoon Danas, which recently battered John’s beloved Chiayi. It’s a little chaotic, a little wild. We jump from Belgium to Yemen to 1950s Taipei, where we meet Pierre Ryckmans, a young scholar who arrived in Taiwan on a cargo ship and ended up learning brushwork from the cousin of China’s last emperor—a famously tedious teacher who refused to leave his studio to tutor Madame Chiang Kai-shek after she took up painting at 53. We wrap things up with the Generalissimo himself, who, despite a full-hour audience, somehow managed to leave absolutely no impression on Ryckmans, a man who would become a giant in the world of sinology.PLEASE – leave a review, follow & "like" on social media. Thanks!

A young American missionary family embarks on a chaotic journey to Taiwan in 1955, navigating a stormy voyage, customs messes, and cultural surprises. Arriving in a city where whole-wheat flour is a rarity and open sewers abound, they encounter a blend of faith and resilience. Their quest for basic ingredients turns into a comedic adventure, reflecting the challenges of adapting to a new culture. The podcast also touches on the historical significance of medical missionaries and the dietary practices of the Seventh-day Adventists during this transformative time.

Discover the unexpected alliance between Taiwan and Saudi Arabia marked by oil, anti-Communism, and even seedless watermelons. Explore how Taiwanese pilots flew combat jets under Saudi colors during secret missions in Yemen. Delve into their agricultural exchange, including groundbreaking rice cultivation in the desert. Uncover the historical significance of King Faisal's visit to Taiwan and the roots of their enduring diplomatic ties, showcasing a unique chapter in international relations.

Han Cheung, a writer for the Taipei Times' Taiwan in Time column, dives into the dazzling world of 1930s Taiwan pop music. He highlights Liu Ching-hsiang, Taiwan's first pop queen, who captivated audiences with her hit “Longing for the Spring Breeze.” The discussion navigates the vibrant musical landscape shaped by Japanese colonial rule, exploring the fusion of traditional Taiwanese sounds with Japanese Enka influences. Cheung also reflects on how changes in recording technology and cinema promotion redefined Taiwan's early pop culture.

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.

Chris Tharp, author of the novel 'The Cuttlefish' and long-time South Korea resident, dives deep into the intertwined histories of Taiwan and South Korea. He discusses their parallel journeys from colonization to democracy, touching on the differing impacts of Japanese rule. The conversation also unveils the unique paths Christianity took in both regions influenced by nationalism. Tharp further contrasts the authoritarian legacies of leaders like Chiang Kai-shek and Syngman Rhee, and highlights the distinct political landscapes shaped by female leaders Park Geun-hye and Tsai Ing-wen.

Explore the enchanting legacy of Teresa Teng, the beloved Taiwanese pop icon who transformed Asian music. Discover the story behind a newly unearthed Japanese-language recording set for release in 2025. Dive into her rise to fame in the late 1970s and how her poignant songs, like 'The Moon Represents My Heart,' served as political commentary during turbulent times. Experience her journey from humble beginnings to superstardom, and learn how her music fostered unity and resilience across cultural divides.

Some people bought Tamagotchis in the '90s. Others? They paid birds to predict their future. In this week’s episode, we take a glimpse into Taiwan’s wild obsession with fortune-telling — and what it reveals about culture, comfort, and even politics. From oracle bones to rose stones, the history of Taiwanese divination has been an unpredictable ride.  Go check out our website. And follow us on social media...LIKE, SUB, etc!