Welcoming a New Era

On August 15, 1945 , the Japanese surrendered and the atmosphere in Taiwan was jubilant, with everyone in anticipation of better times. The Taiwanese felt fortunate to have survived the perils of wartime and on another level, were happy to no longer be considered 'second-class' citizens. They ardently took to rebuilding their homes, in anticipation of shedding their colonial past and moving toward self-governance.

Taiwanese living overseas returned in droves to their homeland, and local leaders and young intellectuals organized various groups, encouraging participation in political activities. Others with similar ideals published newspapers and magazines, expressing their opinions and discussing a wide range of issues, reflecting the eagerness of the Taiwanese to rebuild Taiwan .

However, despite the elation of many, a few remained anxious. Their fears were not unjustified, for in just one and half years the 2-28 Incident occruued.