Terror and Resistance

After World War II, Taiwan saw more hardship as the Nationalist Government assumed control of the island, imposed a corrupt rule, societal problems grew worse, and the 2-28 Incident occurred -- the Taiwanese resorted to resistance, and were ruthlessly slaughtered by the Nationalists.

In 1949 when the Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan, it imposed a strict dictatorship – every aspect of life in Taiwan was under close watch under the new government's the secret service, and society sunk into what is today called the White Terror. In addition, a harsh judicial system and inhuman methods were used to deal with dissenters and protestors. The state in effect was a serious violator of human rights.

The Nationalist government twisted the judicial system to suit its own purposes, eliminating any notion of human rights to consolidate its power. Martial law was imposed, and protestors or dissenters, no matter their position or political beliefs, were targeted. Anyone who opposed Chiang Kai-shek, the Kuomintang (Nationalist Party) or “threatened” the dictatorship would be branded a traitor or a spy, and then executed or placed in confinement. Many died tragic and wrongful deaths. Many wasted away their youth in jail, exposed to its harsh conditions.

After the 2-28 Incident, Taiwan society were continually subjected to political persecution -- in some cases people were maliciously framed, in others great acts were performed for the public good – nonetheless, everyone found themselves in danger under this atmosphere of terror. All of these events were similar to the 2-28 Incident – they became "taboos” for discussion and were banished to the realm of suppressed memories. Many felt helpless as the victims and their families sunk into unbearable pain. However, a sense of justice and the courage of the Taiwanese never disappeared – there were many who called out for help. Many people were mobilized to protest this foreign authority and unfair system, with some even sacrificing their own lives for justice. Year after year, the movement accumulated strength, and the Nationalist government eventually was forced to acknowledge their existence. Taiwan society eventually saw a new dawn.