The History of Taiwan

Prehistory and Early Settlers

Taiwan has been home to mankind for more than 30,000 years. The original inhabitants of the island were most likely not related to modernday aboriginal Taiwanese. The Taiwanese people of today can trace their genetics to a group of people who arrived about 4,000 years ago.

Ancient China was most likely aware of the island and conducted trade with the native people. The Chinese began settling the island in the 1200s and an increase in settlements began in the 16th century.

European Settlement

The Portuguese sent a ship to Taiwan in 1544 and the Dutch followed in 1624. The main reason for these settlements was to establish a commercial base that would boost trading demands. Taiwan quickly became a colony for the Dutch and established a large military presence on the island. Spain also established a military and trading base in northern Taiwan from 1626 until 1642.

17th-19th Centuries

Taiwan continued to be an important trading and economic center during these centuries but was constantly in turmoil. The Chinese continually debated on whether or not they wanted to occupy the nation and caused the locals much difficulty. A common saying that describes Taiwan during these years is Every three years an uprising, every five years a rebellion.

The Japanese Rule

Japan occupied Taiwan for a brief period beginning on October 21, 1895 when troops entered Tainan. The occupation was harsh but allowed the native people to adapt to the changing world. Education, technology, and trade were all focuses of the Japanese government for the Taiwanese people.

The Long Road to Democracy

The Taiwanese people were subsequently forced to live under Chinese dictatorships and continue to do so. China still considers Taiwan to be part of its rule and the Taiwanese people continue to fight for their independence. This fact allows visitors to Taiwan the opportunity to learn much about the history of China, Japan, and other Asian countries through Taiwans own history.