The original Chinese edition of "A New Illustrated History of Taiwan" was the first book on Taiwanese history for general readers to be published after the lifting of martial law in 1987. It first appeared in 1997, followed by two revised and expanded editions. Beginning with the prehistory of Taiwan and ending in the early 1990s, the book covers such important topics as the culture and history of Taiwan's aboriginals, the Dutch VOC period, Koxinga, the immigration of the Han Chinese, Han-aboriginal relations, Japanese colonial rule, post-war KMT rule, and Taiwan's long struggle for freedom and democracy.
In most of the world, school children study the history of their countries in class. In post-war Taiwan this was not the case. Senior high school students did not get a separate textbook for Taiwanese history until 2006; prior to that date it was not studied at all for over half a century and then only as a minor portion of Chinese history. Even today Taiwanese history is studied for fewer hours in school curricula than Chinese history. For many Taiwanese this book was their first opportunity to read about their own history.
"A New Illustrated History of Taiwan" is grounded in the latest research and presents a variety of perspectives on Taiwan's history. It also gives special emphasis to cultural life and the arts. These factors and the author's graceful writing style have deeply engaged readers of the Chinese edition.
This is probably the definitive history of Taiwan to read (in English) for those who are interested in the subject. It is actually quite a quick read, and the illustrations are excellent.
The complicated history of how Taiwan feels vis-a-vis Japan, China, the ROC, and Taiwan itself is outlined very clearly, as well as how its history relates to the region, including Okinawa and Korea. I also appreciated that the author touched upon issues such as the frivolity of the news in Taiwan, which one notices when living here, but is hardly ever addressed.
A couple of my notes: - The name "Taiwan" comes from an indigenous word - Japan was able to use Taiwan to have China recognize it (Japan) as ruler of Okinawa - Suniuo, an Amis, went to Indonesia as a soldier for Japan, and then hid in the forests of Indonesia for 30 years following the defeat of Japan in WWII.
A couple issues: Why Wade-giles?? I understand it might have made sense when it was first written, in the 90s, but now they include a Wade-giles - Pinyin glossary at the end, which seems would be more trouble than just changing everything to Pinyin.
Would be interesting to have an update for the past 20 years or so, especially the whole China-Taiwan relationship and lack of recognition on an international stage, and maybe another look at the 90s from more of a historical perspective. An update would make me revise this to 5 stars.
I should’ve read this years ago. Many thoughts (about myself, my country, what it means to be Taiwanese) but this is probably not the forum to share them. But what a blessing it is to be able to learn about yourself
really enjoyable read, learned a lot about the history of Taiwan. The book dont give you just the plain facts, but takes time to reflect, and take different views. the photos and many personal stories added to the history being told. Too bad, the ending feels a bit rushed, from 1970 and further there's almost no interest in history anymore only reflections on society and what will be the future of Taiwan.
I was a bit disappointed. The author spills much ink on the historical premise (that Taiwanese people have largely been denied access to their own history), but the history she provides as a remedy is rather superficial and scattered. Many chapters are overly focused on artists and other intellectuals. The democratization of Taiwan in the 80s and 90s is barely mentioned, with the excuse that most people already know all about it. I didn't and still don't.
On the other hand, the illustrations are fascinating.
A very good and brief history of Taiwan. However, author injects personal accounts and opinions a bit too much. The writing and "tone" can be very juvenile at times, but that may be a consequence of the translation and is not reflective of the style and tone it conveys in the original language it was written in and aimed at a different readership. Still, very good information and draws a good line connecting events to the present day.
I love this book. The author often zooms into personal heart touching stories and provides images and illustrations to make it a truly captivating experience. There is also a glossary on the back with Chinese translations for those of us who speak Mandarin.
probably the best taiwanese history book available for general public? tho not very comprehensive, it covers many stories and period of time that taiwanese barely learned and knew in our history class
The academic rigor of this book was loose, but I am very grateful that it exists, as it helped me personally to begin to understand the context from which I came. Starting from pre-history and running through to democratic transition, this book gives a foundational overview of the major events in Taiwanese history, though it doesn't have time to delve deeply into any one topic. The theme and challenge of defining Taiwanese identity came through clearly in this book. I loved the photos.