Symposium in Taipei
On Saturday, scholars and historians gathered in Taipei for a symposium marking the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the region's recovery. Participants called for restoring historical truth amid rising debates over a Taiwan independence narrative pushed by Taiwan region's Democratic Progressive Party authorities.
Unfolding the 1895 Struggle
Chi Chia-lin, president of Homeland Publishing and head of a Taiwan history research association, recalled the six-month battle that followed the Qing government's cession of Taiwan under the Treaty of Shimonoseki in April 1895. "Locals and soldiers from Hunan, Anhui and Guangdong stood side by side," said Chi, noting that more than 14,000 people were killed over four-and-a-half months due to overwhelming disparities in weaponry. He also criticized DPP authorities for "glorifying Japan's colonial rule" and misrepresenting the 1895 battle as a push for independence.
Pien Feng-kwei, a professor at the Taiwan Ocean University, highlighted that resistance continued throughout the 50 years of Japanese colonial rule, taking many forms across the island. He warned that forces pushing a modern independence agenda have "ignored or distorted Taiwan's anti-Japanese and anti-colonial struggles."
Preserving Collective Memory
"Remembering history helps us cherish peace," said Pien. Professor Sun Juo-yi of Chung Hsing University added that the strong national consciousness forged during those trials is a lasting testament to the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation. Chi concluded by calling for an accurate historical narrative to awaken society's true memory and guide future generations.
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Taiwan scholars mark 80 years of victory against Japanese aggression
cgtn.com
