“Isla Formosa” – The Fragrant Island

Taiwan’s history is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of indigenous, Dutch, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Han Chinese influences, each contributing to the island’s complex cultural, economic, and social landscape^[1]. Today, Taiwan stands as a thriving democracy, its vibrant economy and diverse culture reflecting a unique identity that has gracefully balanced its historical connections with China, Japan, and the West^[1]. The island’s love for stinky tofu, a delicacy that has braved centuries, is a testament to Taiwan’s ability to preserve its heritage while embracing modernity^[2].

The narrative of Taiwan’s historical evolution is not just a chronicle of conquests and colonies but a testament to resilience and adaptability. Initially inhabited by Austronesian-speaking indigenous peoples, Taiwan’s strategic location made it a melting pot of Eastern and Western influences^[1]. As the article unfolds, it will traverse through the epochs—from the indigenous era and European colonization to the transformative years under Japanese rule, and finally, to its economic revolution and the making of modern Taiwan. This journey through the history of Taiwan promises not only to unveil the layers of its past but also to celebrate the food, culture, and spirit that define this island nation today^[2].

Prehistory

The prehistoric era of Taiwan offers a fascinating glimpse into early human settlement and cultural evolution on the island. This section delves into various aspects of Taiwan’s prehistory, ranging from the earliest human activities to the development of distinct cultural practices.

Earliest Human Activities

• Archaeological evidence indicates that Taiwan was first inhabited during the Paleolithic period, with the earliest human habitation dating back approximately 30,000 to 15,000 years ago^[1].
• The discovery of the Changbin culture’s chipped-pebble tools, dated between 15,000 to 5,000 years ago, marks some of the oldest known artifacts in Taiwan, reflecting a primarily hunting and gathering lifestyle^[4].

Development of Agriculture and Settlements

• Around 5,000 years ago, settlers from the southeast Chinese coast, who were speakers of Austronesian languages, began agricultural practices on the island^[4].
• The emergence of the Dapenkeng culture between 4000 and 3000 BC around the coast and the Penghu islands introduced pottery impressed with cord marks and highly polished stone adzes, indicating an advancement in tool-making^[4].
• By 3000 BC, a significant cultural shift occurred with the sudden appearance of agriculture, marking the arrival of the ancestors of today’s Taiwanese indigenous peoples^[2].

Cultural and Technological Advancements

• The Neolithic period, lasting from around 6,000 to 3,000 years ago, was characterized by the creation of permanent settlements and further development of agriculture^[1].
• Iron and other metals appeared around the beginning of the Common Era, introducing distinct Iron Age cultures across different parts of Taiwan^[4].
• The production of jade ornaments, particularly from the green nephrite deposits near modern Hualien City, began around 2500 BC, highlighting the island’s rich mineral resources^[4].

Migration and Cultural Exchange

• The Austronesian people, believed to have originated from Taiwan, began migrating to other parts of the Pacific and Indian Oceans around 3,000-4,000 years ago, spreading their cultural and linguistic traits across vast regions^[2].
• Evidence of complex trade linkages and intercultural exchanges is also seen in the variety of burial practices adopted by prehistoric groups on the island^[4].

This exploration of Taiwan’s prehistory not only sheds light on the early human activities and cultural developments on the island but also underscores the significant role Taiwan played in the broader prehistoric migrations and cultural exchanges in the Pacific region.

Dutch and Spanish Colonization

Early Attempts at Colonization

The initial forays into Taiwan by European powers began in the 17th century, with both the Dutch and Spanish establishing their presence on the island. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) set up a colony in southern Taiwan in 1624 at Tayouan, now known as Anping^[6]. Their primary goal was to dominate the lucrative trade routes between China, Japan, and Europe, leveraging Taiwan as a strategic base^[6]. Concurrently, the Spanish arrived in 1626, setting up their colony in the northern part of the island, in present-day Keelung, aiming to protect their regional trade interests from the Spanish Philippines^[6][8].

Colonial Rivalries and Conflicts

The presence of both Dutch and Spanish settlements led to uneasy coexistence marked by occasional skirmishes and trade disputes. The Spanish colony, known as Spanish Formosa, was part of the Spanish East Indies and reported directly to New Spain (Mexico), reflecting its strategic but precarious position in the Spanish colonial network^[8]. In contrast, the Dutch colony thrived as a key transshipment center in East Asian trade networks, with the VOC’s Tayouan factory becoming the second-most profitable in the Dutch East Indies^[6].

Cultural and Economic Impacts

The Dutch introduced a cash economy using the Spanish real and demanded that local villages swear allegiance, which often involved symbolic acts like bringing a small native plant to the governor^[6]. This period also saw the introduction of new technologies, diseases, and cultural practices, profoundly impacting Taiwan’s indigenous populations^[6]. The Spanish, on their part, introduced Catholicism, building churches and converting some of the indigenous population. They also brought in settlers from various regions, including Sangley Chinese and Christian Japanese, to bolster their trading and military presence^[6][8].

Decline and Withdrawal

The Spanish colony was short-lived, lasting only until 1642 when a joint Dutch-aborigine force ousted them from the island^[6]. The Dutch continued to hold sway over much of Taiwan until 1668, despite aborigine resistance and the faltering of efforts to retake other parts of the island^[6]. The end of the Dutch rule came with the Chinese invasion in 1661, leading to the capitulation of the Dutch and the beginning of the sinicization process in Taiwan^[7].

Legacy of the Colonization

The periods of Dutch and Spanish rule not only altered the course of Taiwan’s history but also laid the groundwork for later European involvement in East Asia. These early colonial endeavors set precedents for trade, diplomacy, and colonial administration that would resonate through later centuries^[6]. The historical synthesis provided by Tonio Andrade in “How Taiwan became Chinese” underscores the significant changes and continuities brought about by these colonial periods^[7].

Kingdom of Tungning

The Kingdom of Tungning, sometimes referred to as the Zheng dynasty or Yanping Kingdom, emerged as a significant Ming loyalist movement under the leadership of Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong). Established in 1661, it controlled parts of southwestern Taiwan and the Penghu islands until 1683, marking the first predominantly ethnic Han state in Taiwanese history^[9].

Establishment and Objectives

Koxinga founded the Kingdom of Tungning after ousting the Dutch from Taiwan. His primary aim was to use Taiwan as a strategic military base to continue the Ming loyalist resistance against the Qing dynasty’s control over mainland China^[9].

Sinicization and Administration

Under the rule of the Zheng family, Taiwan experienced significant sinicization. This process was aimed at consolidating Taiwan as a stronghold of Han Chinese, countering the Manchu-led Qing dynasty. The island’s administration was modeled on Ming dynasty systems, and significant urban and military infrastructures were developed during this period^[9].

Maritime Influence and Economic Activities

The Kingdom’s maritime power was formidable, exerting influence over coastal regions of southeastern China and controlling major sea lanes. The Zheng merchant fleets maintained active trade routes between Japan and Southeast Asia, establishing Taiwan as a central trading hub^[9].

Succession and Expansion

After Koxinga’s death in 1662, his son Zheng Jing took over the leadership. Under his rule, the kingdom saw an increase in Chinese migration to Taiwan. By 1665, approximately 9,000 Chinese settlers had been brought over by Zheng Jing, significantly boosting the island’s population and workforce^[9].

Military and Diplomatic Engagements

Despite facing a sea-ban imposed by the Qing dynasty, which aimed to isolate and weaken the Zheng’s maritime capabilities, the Kingdom of Tungning showed resilience. Zheng Jing even capitalized on the Revolt of the Three Feudatories in 1674 to recapture Xiamen and use it as a trading base to support efforts to reclaim mainland China^[9].

Cultural and Political Legacy

The Kingdom of Tungning is remembered for its role in preserving Ming loyalist ideals and contributing to the cultural and political development of Taiwan. Its establishment marked a pivotal moment in Taiwan’s history, laying foundational aspects of Taiwanese identity that emphasized resistance and autonomy^[9].

Qing Dynasty Rule

Initial Annexation and Administrative Changes

The Qing dynasty’s influence over Taiwan began in 1683 after they defeated Koxinga’s forces, leading to the island’s incorporation into the Chinese Empire^[2]. Initially governed as part of Fujian Province, Taiwan was later established as a separate province in 1887, marking a significant shift in its administrative importance within China^[10].

Population Growth and Economic Development

Under Qing rule, Taiwan saw a significant influx of Han Chinese settlers, particularly during the 18th century. This migration was crucial for the development of agriculture and trade on the island^[1]. By the end of the Qing era in 1895, the ethnic Han population had grown to over two million, becoming the majority demographic^[10]. The Single Whip Tax Reform of 1716 simplified the tax system and was a pivotal factor in promoting Taiwan’s economic development^[1].

Challenges and Rebellions

Despite these developments, the Qing administration faced numerous challenges, including resistance from the native Taiwanese populations. The most notable conflict was the Lin Shuangwen Rebellion in 1786, which highlighted the ongoing tensions between the settlers and indigenous groups^[1]. The Qing government’s cautious approach to colonization, characterized by restrictions on Han migration and the use of boundary markers to prevent conflicts over land, underscored the complexities of governing the diverse island^[10].

Modernization Efforts in the Late Qing Period

The arrival of the steamship in the 1850s increased Taiwan’s interactions with Western nations, prompting Governor Liu Ming-chuan to initiate extensive modernization projects after 1887. These included the construction of Taiwan’s first railroad, modern telegraph lines, and the introduction of electric streetlights and taxicab services^[11]. These efforts not only transformed Taiwan into a significant trading hub but also fostered a unique local identity that began to see itself as distinct from mainland China^[11].

Transition to Japanese Rule

The strategic and economic developments under the Qing did not go unnoticed by foreign powers. Following China’s defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan in 1895 under the Treaty of Shimonoseki, marking the end of over two centuries of Qing rule^[10]. This transition was significant not only for Taiwan’s political landscape but also for the subsequent cultural and economic changes under Japanese governance.

Japanese Colonial Period

Initial Transition to Japanese Rule

Following the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895, Taiwan was ceded to Japan, marking the beginning of Japanese colonial rule which lasted until the end of World War II in 1945^[1][12]. Initially, the Japanese military governed the island, but by 1898, it transitioned to a more stable civilian colonial administration^[13].

Trailer for the movie “Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale” depicts Taiwanese indigenous struggle against Japanese colonialism.

Economic and Infrastructure Developments

Under Japanese rule, Taiwan underwent significant infrastructural and economic changes. Initially inheriting only about 30 miles of railroads, the Japanese expanded this network to approximately 300 miles within a decade, enhancing transportation and facilitating economic growth^[13]. The island was developed into a productive colony, primarily exporting rice and sugar, which significantly contributed to Japan’s economy^[2].

Policies Towards Indigenous Peoples

The Japanese colonial government implemented a classification system for the indigenous peoples, categorizing them into acculturated, semi-acculturated, and non-acculturated groups^[12]. Those deemed acculturated were treated similarly to ethnic Chinese and were stripped of their aboriginal status, which included losing rights to their lands and resources^[12]. From 1903, the administration enforced stricter policies, reducing the living spaces of indigenous peoples by expanding military and protected areas, which significantly affected their traditional way of life^[12].

Relocation and Assimilation Efforts

Continuing their control, the Japanese government relocated indigenous peoples from 1919 to 1934 to areas that would not obstruct forest development. This forced relocation meant that many indigenous communities had to relinquish all claims to their ancestral lands^[12]. These actions were part of broader efforts to assimilate the local population into the Japanese empire, often at the cost of local cultures and traditions.

Military and Strategic Use of Taiwan

During World War II, Taiwan played a crucial role as an ‘unsinkable aircraft carrier’ for Japan, serving as a critical military base in the Pacific^[13]. Taiwanese people were also integrated into Japan’s war efforts, working in defense industries and serving in the military, including units deployed in China^[13].

End of Japanese Rule

The period of Japanese rule came to an end in 1945 when Taiwan was returned to Chinese control following Japan’s defeat in World War II^[3]. This transition marked a significant shift in Taiwan’s political and social landscape, setting the stage for the subsequent phases of its history.

Republic of China and World War II

The Republic of China (ROC) underwent significant transformations and faced numerous challenges during and after World War II. This section explores the pivotal events and policies that shaped Taiwan under the ROC’s governance during this turbulent period.

Establishment and Early Administration

• The ROC was re-established in Taiwan in 1945 following Japan’s unconditional surrender, marking the end of Japanese colonial rule^[1].
• Chiang Kai-shek’s Nationalist government took control, initiating a series of reforms aimed at stabilizing and developing Taiwan^[1].
• The Office of the Chief Executive of Taiwan Province was created to oversee these transformations, although it faced significant challenges including corruption and economic hardship^[13].

International Recognition and Military Contributions

• During the Korean War (1950-1953), the ROC provided substantial military support to the United Nations’ efforts, including troops, aircraft, and naval resources^[1].
• The ROC also participated in the Vietnam War, offering military advisors and aid to the South Vietnamese government^[1].
• Throughout these conflicts, the ROC maintained its claim over all of China, recognized by the United Nations and many other countries as the legitimate government of China until 1971^[1].

Political Turmoil and the White Terror

• The February 28 Incident in 1947 led to severe clashes between the government and local populations, resulting in widespread suppression by government troops^[13].
• This event marked the beginning of the White Terror era, during which the government conducted extensive anti-communist purges that affected thousands of Taiwanese citizens^[13].

Conclusion of World War II and Aftermath

• The Cairo Conference in 1943 had already stipulated that Taiwan would be returned to China after the war, a decision implemented following Japan’s surrender in 1945^[1].
• The post-war transition saw U.S. forces briefly overseeing the transfer of control to the ROC, setting the stage for the Nationalist government’s rule over the island^[13].

This period in Taiwan’s history was marked by significant political, military, and social changes, as the ROC navigated both internal challenges and its role on the global stage during major international conflicts.

Martial Law to Democratic Reforms

The Era of Martial Law

The Cold War period significantly impacted Taiwan, leading to international isolation primarily due to pressure from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). This geopolitical tension contributed to the imposition of martial law, infamously known as the “White Terror,” which persisted until 1987^[1]. During this time, the government, under the control of the Kuomintang (KMT) party, enforced strict regulations that limited political freedoms and controlled various aspects of daily life, including the militarization of education and restrictions on free speech^[1].

Transition to Democracy

Taiwan’s shift from an authoritarian regime to a democratic state occurred in distinct phases, beginning in the late 1970s and gaining momentum through the 1980s. This transition was marked by significant political reforms, including the lifting of martial law in 1987, which paved the way for further democratic processes^[14]. The culmination of these efforts was the historic first direct presidential election in 1996, a significant step in Taiwan’s democratic consolidation^[15].

Democratic Reforms and Challenges

Post-martial law Taiwan saw a flurry of democratic reforms aimed at creating a more open and fair society. Key reforms included the abolition of Temporary Provisions that had granted extensive powers to the executive branch, and the establishment of new institutions to dismantle the pervasive security apparatus of the state^[1]. However, the road to a fully functional democracy was fraught with challenges. The amendments to the ROC constitution in the 1990s, while intended to enhance democratic functioning, inadvertently created significant obstacles to political accountability^[15].

Political Landscape Post-Reforms

The end of martial law and subsequent reforms allowed for the proliferation of political parties, reflecting a system open to diverse viewpoints^[15]. However, concerns remained about the potential re-dominance of the KMT, which could overwhelm or fragment the opposition, thus threatening the democratic balance^[15]. The political landscape in Taiwan continues to be vibrant yet contentious, with ongoing debates about its future direction.

Concerns and Future of Democracy

Despite the progress made, many Taiwanese express concerns about the state of their democracy. Surveys indicate that while half of the population prefers democracy over any other form of government, a significant minority contemplates the suitability of authoritarian options under certain conditions^[1]. Moreover, external threats, particularly from the PRC, pose a continuous challenge to the stability and autonomy of Taiwan’s democratic institutions. The possibility of coerced unification threatens to undermine the hard-won democratic gains if not addressed with resilience and international support^[1].

Economic Transformation

Overview of Taiwan’s Economic Landscape

Taiwan’s economy is characterized by its heavy reliance on trade, with the total value of imports and exports surpassing 110% of its GDP. In 2024, trade figures are projected to mirror those of 2022, with exports estimated at USD $523 billion and imports at USD $424 billion^[17]. This significant trade volume underscores the island’s integration into the global market, though it also exposes the economy to fluctuations driven by macroeconomic factors and geopolitical uncertainties^[17].

Historical Economic Growth: The Taiwan Miracle

The period following World War II marked a dramatic transformation in Taiwan’s economy, famously known as the “Taiwan Miracle.” This era saw Taiwan evolve from a state of severe poverty to a thriving market economy. Key to this transformation was the introduction of major reforms starting in the agricultural sector. These reforms included the farm rent reduction in 1949, the sale of public farmlands in 1951, and the significant “land to the tiller” reform in 1953^[18]. Furthermore, economic assistance from the U.S., amounting to $1.4 billion between 1951 and 1965, played a crucial role in propelling Taiwan towards self-sustaining economic growth^[18].

Industrial and Technological Advancements

By the 1980s, Taiwan had begun to establish itself in the high-technology sector, notably in information and communication technology, which is now among the world’s most renowned. The backbone of Taiwan’s robust economy has been its manufacturing sector, particularly dominated by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Notable global companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (TSM), ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. (ASX), and United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) are based in Taiwan, highlighting its pivotal role in the global tech industry^[18].

Economic Policies and Global Standing

In recent years, Taiwan has continued to adapt its economic strategies to maintain its competitive edge. The adoption of the New Model for Economic Development in 2016 and the approval of the National Development Plan (2021-2024) are testaments to its proactive economic planning^[18]. Taiwan’s ease of doing business has significantly improved, jumping from 61st in 2008 to 15th position, reflecting enhancements in business conditions and regulatory frameworks^[18]. Additionally, Taiwan is classified as a high-income economy by the World Bank, with a GDP estimated at $828.66 billion in 2022, ranking 21st globally^[18].

Taiwan’s Role in Global Trade

Taiwan is a crucial player in the international trade of intermediate goods, particularly in the ICT sector, where over 70% of its exports consist of intermediate products. It is the world’s leading producer of motherboards and notebook PCs, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company handling a major share of global computer chip production for companies like Qualcomm and Nvidia^[19]. The reliance on overseas production networks is notable, with up to 85% of Taiwan’s exports being manufactured outside of Taiwan, especially in sectors like ICT^[19].

This deep integration into global supply chains, combined with strategic economic policies and a focus on high-tech industries, continues to shape Taiwan’s economic landscape, ensuring its resilience and ongoing transformation in the face of global economic shifts.

Modern Taiwan

2024 Presidential Election and Domestic Focus

In the 2024 presidential election, Lai Ching-te from the Democratic Progressive Party emerged victorious, securing 40% of the votes^[20]. This election marked a significant shift in electoral focus from issues of national identity and relations with China to pressing domestic concerns. Key issues that dominated the discourse included unaffordable housing, stagnant wages, an aging population, energy insecurity, and the sustainability of social welfare programs^[20].

Challenges in Healthcare and Society

Taiwan’s healthcare system, known for its affordability and accessibility, faces financial sustainability challenges exacerbated by the rapidly aging demographic^[20]. The broader societal challenges include increasing geopolitical tensions, with external pressures leading to a more polarized and potentially less effective government. There is growing skepticism within Taiwanese society about the reliability of the United States as a strategic partner^[20].

Political and Economic Policies

The Tsai Ing-wen administration has been actively addressing deep-seated societal divisions, including the disparities between mainland Taiwanese and native Taiwanese, as well as differing social views across generations^[21]. In response to these internal challenges, the People’s Republic of China has offered 31 preferential policies aimed at bolstering Taiwan’s economic development and improving employment and wage conditions^[21].

Systemic Issues and Future Outlook

Taiwan’s political system faces numerous challenges in addressing critical issues such as government budget constraints, economic competitiveness, job creation for the youth, energy security, environmental preservation, and judicial reform^[22]. The complex interplay between transitional justice and China’s preferential policies is expected to significantly influence Taiwan’s future trajectory^[21].

Geopolitical Status and International Participation

Despite its vibrant democracy and significant economic achievements, Taiwan’s international status remains complex. The People’s Republic of China views Taiwan as a renegade province, while a majority of Taiwanese prefer either maintaining the status quo or moving towards full independence^[1]. Taiwan participates in international forums under the name “Chinese Taipei” and maintains its own currency, the New Taiwan dollar, reflecting its unique political and economic identity^[1].

The Republic of China continues to administer not only Taiwan but also Penghu, Quemoy, Lienchiang, and other minor islands, maintaining a distinct administrative presence in the region^[1].

Conclusion

Through an expansive journey unraveling the distinct historical episodes of Taiwan, from its prehistoric settlements to the contemporary vibrance of a modern democracy, this article has traversed the multifarious layers that compose the island’s rich tapestry of culture, politics, and economy. Each era, whether under colonial rule, the autocratic stretch of the martial law era, or the flourish of democratization and economic miracles, underscores Taiwan’s adaptive resilience and evolving identity. The narrative not only delineates Taiwan’s historical trajectory but also celebrates its cultural richness and pivotal role in the global geopolitical and economic landscape.

Looking ahead, Taiwan’s future appears as dynamic as its past, with the island at a crossroad of preserving its hard-earned democratic values and navigating the complexities of international relations and domestic challenges. The discussion herein not only reinstates the island’s unique position on the world stage but also prompts a reflection on the broader implications of its historical developments for its people and the global community. As Taiwan continues to shape its path forward, its story remains a compelling testament to the power of historical legacy intertwined with the relentless pursuit of progress and self-determination.

FAQs

Q: Who was the ruler of Taiwan prior to Chinese control?
A: Taiwan was under Japanese rule after being acquired in 1895 following the first Sino-Japanese War. It was a Japanese colony until it was ceded back to Nationalist Chinese control in 1945 after Japan’s defeat in World War II.

Q: What was Taiwan’s historical name?
A: The historical name for Taiwan is Formosa, a term originating from 1542 when Portuguese sailors called it Ilha Formosa, which means “beautiful island” in Portuguese. This name was widely used in European literature and continued to be popular among English speakers until the 20th century.

Q: What is the basis of China’s claim over Taiwan?
A: China’s claim to Taiwan is rooted in history, where the Republic of China (ROC) government regained control of Taiwan from Japan in 1945. After the ROC government relocated to Taiwan in 1949 with the intent of reclaiming mainland China, both the ROC and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have constitutionally claimed both mainland China and the Taiwan Area as part of their territories.

Q: What makes Taiwan a significant partner to the United States?
A: The United States values Taiwan as a significant partner due to their extensive trade and investment ties, collaboration in public health, critical contributions to semiconductor and other essential supply chains, shared interests in investment screening, joint scientific and technological endeavors, educational exchanges, and a mutual commitment to promoting democratic values.

References

[1] –https://www.taiwan.gov.tw/content_3.php
[2] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Taiwan
[3] –https://www.thoughtco.com/brief-history-of-taiwan-688021
[4] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prehistory_of_Taiwan
[5] –https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstreams/7dc11ddd-e71c-438a-bd9b-b0a1be8e2a61/download
[6] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_Formosa
[7] –https://muse.jhu.edu/article/362241/pdf
[8] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Formosa
[9] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Tungning
[10] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiwan_under_Qing_rule
[11] –https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2018/02/27/2003688328
[12] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiwan_under_Japanese_rule
[13] –https://www.britannica.com/place/Taiwan/Taiwan-as-part-of-the-Japanese-empire
[14] –https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA392930.pdf
[15] –https://www.aei.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/-democratic-transition-and-consolidation-in-taiwan_122745967872.pdf
[16] –https://globaltaiwan.org/2017/07/the-end-of-martial-law-an-important-anniversary-for-taiwan/
[17] –https://globaltaiwan.org/2024/02/taiwans-economy-in-2024-less-geopolitics-more-macroeconomics/
[18] –https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/an-overview-of-taiwans-economy
[19] –https://www.brookings.edu/articles/taiwans-economic-opportunities-and-challenges-and-the-importance-of-the-trans-pacific-partnership/
[20] –https://www.cfr.org/blog/taiwans-2024-election-outcomes-balancing-domestic-challenges-and-international-relations
[21] –https://thediplomat.com/2018/05/challenges-in-taiwanese-society/
[22] –https://www.brookings.edu/articles/taiwans-democracy-and-the-china-challenge/