When did the Kuomintang government flee to Taiwan?
The Kuomintang government fled to Taiwan in 1949. This event involved 2 million people including soldiers, intellectuals, and business elites who became known as waishengren.
Questions about Taiwan
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who were the first human settlers on the island of Taiwan?
The first human footsteps on the island of Taiwan were made by Australo-Papuan people who arrived between 20,000 and 30,000 years ago. These early settlers left behind stone tools and traces of a hunter-gatherer existence.
When did the Dutch East India Company establish Fort Zeelandia?
The Dutch East India Company established Fort Zeelandia on the coastal sandbar of Tayouan in 1624. This event marked the beginning of a colonial era that would see Taiwan become a battleground for European powers.
When did the Qing dynasty annex Taiwan?
The Qing dynasty annexed Taiwan in 1683. This event marked the beginning of a new era that would see the island become a province of China and a testing ground for colonial administration.
When did the Kuomintang government lift martial law in Taiwan?
The Kuomintang government lifted martial law in Taiwan in 1987. This decision marked the beginning of a transition to democracy that would see Taiwan become a multi-party state.
When was the first direct presidential election held in Taiwan?
The first direct presidential election in Taiwan was held in 1996. Lee Teng-hui was re-elected during this election which marked a new era of democracy.