Taiwan Lives
A Social and Political History
Niki J. P. Alsford
From a cradle of Austronesian expansion to the dynamic economic powerhouse and successful democracy it is today, Taiwan is layered in colonial histories. In Taiwan Lives, Niki J. P. Alsford presents a comprehensive examination of the island nation’s rich and complex past, told through the life stories of those who have lived it.
A merchant, an exile, an activist, a pop star, a doctor, and a president are just some of the twenty-four individuals whose lives populate this people’s history of Taiwan.
Special Introduction From The Author
I wrote Taiwan Lives with a deep-seated desire to amplify the voices and experiences of the countless individuals that I have encountered throughout my journey, whether living in person or within archives and private collections. My inspiration stemmed from a profound belief in the power of a people’s history to illuminate the complexities of a nation’s identity and the struggles it has faced over time. In crafting Taiwan Lives, I envisioned myself as an archaeologist excavating layers of history, piecing together fragments of stories, memories, and struggles from the depths of time. Each chapter is akin to unearthing a new archaeological site, revealing hidden treasures of insight and understanding about Taiwan’s past and present. What is more, my motivation to write this book stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of reclaiming and preserving the diverse narratives of Taiwan’s inhabitants, much like preserving artifacts from an archaeological dig. By excavating these narratives and bringing them to light, I aimed to showcase the resilience and richness of Taiwan’s cultural heritage, while also shedding light on the ongoing journey towards self-determination and sovereignty. Just as an archaeologist meticulously uncovers and interprets artifacts to reconstruct the past, Taiwan Lives seeks to uncover and interpret the stories that have shaped Taiwan’s identity, offering readers a deeper appreciation of its complex history and the aspirations of its peoples.
The book offers a sweeping exploration of the multifaceted history of this island nation, recounted through the narratives and viewpoints of its inhabitants across time. From the Indigenous Austronesian communities who have inhabited Taiwan for millennia to the myriad waves of colonisation spanning European, Manchu, Chinese, and Japanese rule, the book meticulously examines the diverse tapestry of experiences and challenges that have shaped Taiwan’s identity.
Central to the narrative are two recurring themes: the indomitable spirit and perseverance of Taiwan’s populace amidst foreign domination, and the ongoing quest for self-determination and sovereignty. Despite enduring centuries of subjugation and political suppression, the people of Taiwan have steadfastly resisted. From early acts of defiance to contemporary grassroots movements, Taiwanese individuals have consistently stood against external forces seeking to exploit their land and resources.
Moreover, the book delves into how Taiwan’s cultural landscape has been shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and cross-cultural exchanges, continually adapting and evolving amidst the currents of globalisation.
Through the lens of firsthand accounts, readers are afforded a profound insight into Taiwan’s past, present, and the trajectory of its future. It not only provides readers with a deeper appreciation for the island’s heritage but also offers valuable perspectives on the broader themes of resilience, cultural identity, and the pursuit of freedom. It stands as a compelling testament to the enduring spirit of a nation and its people, serving as a rallying cry for justice, equality, and self-determination.Niki Alsford is Professor of Anthropology and Human Geography, and Director for the Institutes for the Study of the Asia Pacific (ISAP) at the University of Central Lancashire. He is a Research Associate at the Centre of Taiwan Studies at SOAS and an Associate Member of the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Oxford. In 2023, he was selected as the Ewha Global Fellow at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea. Alsford’s research focuses primarily on Taiwan and the Pacific Islands. He is the book series editor for the Taiwan Series at BRILL and the Korean series at Routledge. Alsford is the author of Transitions to Modernity in Taiwan: The Spirit of 1895 and the Cession of Formosa to Japan, published by Routledge in 2017 and Taiwan Lives: A Socio-Political History, published by the University of Washington Press in 2024.