Taiwan

Taiwan, officially the Republic of China (ROC), is a country in East Asia. The main island of Taiwan, also known as Formosa, lies between the East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, with the People's Republic of China (PRC) to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south. It has an area of 35,808 square kilometres, with mountain ranges dominating the eastern two-thirds and plains in the western third, where its highly urbanized population is concentrated. The combined territories under ROC control consist of 168 islands in total covering 36,193 square kilometres. The largest metropolitan area is formed by Taipei, New Taipei City, and Keelung. With around 23.9 million inhabitants, Taiwan is among the most densely populated countries.
taiwan

Some of the key events about Taiwan

  • 1895
    Taiwan was ceded to Japan by China following the First Sino-Japanese War
  • 1945
    Taiwan experienced severe economic disruption and hyperinflation after World War II
  • 1947
    The February 28 Incident resulted in thousands of civilian deaths and decades of martial law
  • 1949
    The Republic of China government relocated to Taiwan, establishing a new base for democratic governance
  • 1949
    The Chinese Civil War led to the retreat of the Kuomintang government to Taiwan
  • 1958
    The Second Taiwan Strait Crisis involved intense artillery bombardment of Kinmen islands
  • 1965
    Taiwan's first export processing zone was established in Kaohsiung, boosting economic development
  • 1971
    The world's tallest building at the time, Taipei 101, began construction, becoming a symbol of Taiwan's economic growth
  • 1971
    Taiwan lost its seat in the United Nations to the People's Republic of China
  • 1979
    The United States switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China
  • 1987
    Martial law was lifted, marking a significant step towards democratization
  • 1996
    Taiwan held its first direct presidential election, solidifying its democratic system
  • 1999
    The 921 earthquake struck central Taiwan, causing over 2,400 deaths and widespread destruction
  • 2000
    The first peaceful transfer of power between political parties occurred in Taiwan's presidential election
  • 2003
    Taiwan successfully contained the SARS outbreak, demonstrating effective public health management
  • 2003
    Taiwan was severely affected by the SARS epidemic, resulting in 73 deaths
  • 2009
    Taiwan participated in the World Health Assembly as an observer for the first time since 1971
  • 2016
    Taiwan was excluded from the World Health Assembly for the first time since 2009
  • 2019
    Taiwan became the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage
  • 2020
    Taiwan's successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic gained international recognition

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

Taiwan Latest news

Taiwan Resumes Normal Activities as Typhoon Krathon Dissipates

Taiwan Resumes Normal Activities as Typhoon Krathon Dissipates

October 4 2024, 05:16 AM  •  1302 views
Kaohsiung Grapples with Typhoon Krathon's Aftermath as Taiwan Recovers

Kaohsiung Grapples with Typhoon Krathon's Aftermath as Taiwan Recovers

October 4 2024, 12:54 AM  •  705 views
Taiwan Deports Chinese Nationals for Harassing Hong Kong Protesters

Taiwan Deports Chinese Nationals for Harassing Hong Kong Protesters

October 3 2024, 09:01 AM  •  255 views
Russia Aligns with China on Asian Issues, Criticizes U.S. Influence

Russia Aligns with China on Asian Issues, Criticizes U.S. Influence

October 3 2024, 08:53 AM  •  189 views
Taiwan Braces for Weakening Typhoon Krathon as Kaohsiung Prepares for Direct Hit

Taiwan Braces for Weakening Typhoon Krathon as Kaohsiung Prepares for Direct Hit

October 3 2024, 08:53 AM  •  191 views
Israel Faces Multiple Threats as Global Crises Unfold

Israel Faces Multiple Threats as Global Crises Unfold

October 2 2024, 11:18 PM  •  5443 views
German Navy's Taiwan Strait Transit Sparks Chinese Scrutiny

German Navy's Taiwan Strait Transit Sparks Chinese Scrutiny

October 2 2024, 10:24 AM  •  226 views
Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

October 2 2024, 10:03 AM  •  0 views
Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: Nationwide Shutdown Ahead of Landfall

Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: Nationwide Shutdown Ahead of Landfall

October 2 2024, 12:55 AM  •  1652 views
Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

October 1 2024, 04:06 AM  •  627 views
Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

October 1 2024, 04:03 AM  •  527 views
China's Communist Party: 75 Years of Power and Transformation

China's Communist Party: 75 Years of Power and Transformation

October 1 2024, 03:07 AM  •  473 views
Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: 40,000 Troops Mobilized

Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: 40,000 Troops Mobilized

October 1 2024, 02:30 AM  •  567 views
China Marks 75 Years of Communist Rule Amid Economic and Security Challenges

China Marks 75 Years of Communist Rule Amid Economic and Security Challenges

October 1 2024, 12:26 AM  •  522 views
State-Level Foreign Lobbying: A New Frontier in US Political Influence

State-Level Foreign Lobbying: A New Frontier in US Political Influence

September 30 2024, 12:52 PM  •  899 views
Taiwan Hikes Power Prices for Large Industries, Spares Households

Taiwan Hikes Power Prices for Large Industries, Spares Households

September 30 2024, 12:49 PM  •  529 views
Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

September 30 2024, 12:48 PM  •  537 views
Biden Approves $567 Million Defense Package for Taiwan Amid China Tensions

Biden Approves $567 Million Defense Package for Taiwan Amid China Tensions

September 30 2024, 03:54 AM  •  972 views
Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

September 30 2024, 01:26 AM  •  757 views
Taiwan Detects Multiple Missile Launches in China Amid Rising Tensions

Taiwan Detects Multiple Missile Launches in China Amid Rising Tensions

September 29 2024, 03:26 PM  •  479 views
Former Taiwan Leader's European Tour Sparks Diplomatic Tension

Former Taiwan Leader's European Tour Sparks Diplomatic Tension

Ex-Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen's planned European visit draws China's criticism. The trip, starting October 12, aims to promote Taiwan's international engagement despite Beijing's opposition.

Economics, Politics • October 8 2024, 12:16 PM  •  22721 views
Foreign Powers Target U.S. Congressional Races in 2024 Election Meddling

Foreign Powers Target U.S. Congressional Races in 2024 Election Meddling

Intelligence officials warn of Russia, China, and Cuba's influence operations in U. S. congressional races. These efforts aim to sway candidates based on foreign policy interests, posing a threat to democratic processes.

Society, Politics • October 8 2024, 01:11 AM  •  809 views
Geothermal Energy: A Strategic Opportunity for U.S. and Pacific Rim Security

Geothermal Energy: A Strategic Opportunity for U.S. and Pacific Rim Security

Geothermal energy emerges as a promising solution for energy security and climate goals in the Pacific Rim. With U.S. technical expertise and Alaska's potential, it could reshape regional power dynamics.

Economics, Politics, Science • October 7 2024, 11:28 AM  •  809 views
Taiwan-Israel Ties Unshaken by Lebanon Pager Incident, Says Envoy

Taiwan-Israel Ties Unshaken by Lebanon Pager Incident, Says Envoy

Israeli envoy in Taipei affirms strong relations with Taiwan despite recent Lebanon pager controversy. Shared democratic values and open communication underpin bilateral ties.

Business, Politics • October 7 2024, 09:23 AM  •  669 views
Asian Markets Surge on Strong U.S. Jobs Data; Japan's Economic Outlook in Focus

Asian Markets Surge on Strong U.S. Jobs Data; Japan's Economic Outlook in Focus

Asian stock markets rally following robust U. S. employment figures. Japan's new Prime Minister outlines economic policies as Nintendo stock soars. Chinese markets prepare to reopen with anticipated stimulus measures.

Business, Economics, Politics • October 7 2024, 07:43 AM  •  234 views
Former Taiwan Leader Tsai to Visit Czech Republic, Boosting European Ties

Former Taiwan Leader Tsai to Visit Czech Republic, Boosting European Ties

Ex-Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen plans Czech visit, highlighting growing ties with Eastern Europe. Trip includes Forum 2000 speech and meetings with European politicians, potentially straining China relations.

Economics, Politics • October 7 2024, 12:41 AM  •  3006 views
Taiwan's President Asserts Older Political Roots Than Mainland China

Taiwan's President Asserts Older Political Roots Than Mainland China

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te claims the island's political origins predate mainland China's, rejecting Beijing's sovereignty claims. The statement highlights ongoing tensions over Taiwan's status.

Politics, Culture • October 5 2024, 01:47 PM  •  829 views
China Evacuates Over 200 Citizens from Lebanon Amid Middle East Tensions

China Evacuates Over 200 Citizens from Lebanon Amid Middle East Tensions

China has safely evacuated more than 200 of its citizens from Lebanon, including residents of Hong Kong and Taiwan, due to escalating conflicts in the Middle East. The Chinese Embassy continues to assist remaining citizens.

Society, Politics, Culture • October 5 2024, 05:43 AM  •  3494 views
Report Warns of China's Non-Military Tactics Against Taiwan

Report Warns of China's Non-Military Tactics Against Taiwan

A new study highlights potential economic and cyber warfare strategies China could employ against Taiwan. Experts urge preparation for non-military threats to the island's security.

Economics, Politics • October 4 2024, 09:48 PM  •  568 views
Taiwan Prepares for Non-Military Threats in Innovative Wargame Scenarios

Taiwan Prepares for Non-Military Threats in Innovative Wargame Scenarios

Taiwan shifts focus to economic and cyber-coercion in recent wargames, exploring scenarios beyond traditional military confrontations. Experts recommend enhancing financial, energy, and cyber resilience.

Economics, Politics • October 4 2024, 03:16 PM  •  356 views
Taiwan Resumes Normal Activities as Typhoon Krathon Dissipates

Taiwan Resumes Normal Activities as Typhoon Krathon Dissipates

Taiwan returns to normalcy after Typhoon Krathon weakens over mountains. Most areas resume work and flights, with some regions still affected by closures and weather advisories.

Society, Business • October 4 2024, 05:16 AM  •  1302 views
Kaohsiung Grapples with Typhoon Krathon's Aftermath as Taiwan Recovers

Kaohsiung Grapples with Typhoon Krathon's Aftermath as Taiwan Recovers

Southern Taiwan cleans up after Typhoon Krathon's impact, while most of the island resumes normal activities. Kaohsiung and Pingtung face flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage.

Society, Economics • October 4 2024, 12:54 AM  •  705 views
Taiwan Deports Chinese Nationals for Harassing Hong Kong Protesters

Taiwan Deports Chinese Nationals for Harassing Hong Kong Protesters

Two Chinese visitors were deported from Taiwan after interfering with a Hong Kong exile protest in Taipei. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 09:01 AM  •  255 views
Russia Aligns with China on Asian Issues, Criticizes U.S. Influence

Russia Aligns with China on Asian Issues, Criticizes U.S. Influence

Russia's Foreign Minister Lavrov expresses support for China's positions in Asia, including Taiwan. He criticizes U.S. influence and praises China's stance on Ukraine, highlighting shared views on regional security.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 08:53 AM  •  189 views
Taiwan Braces for Weakening Typhoon Krathon as Kaohsiung Prepares for Direct Hit

Taiwan Braces for Weakening Typhoon Krathon as Kaohsiung Prepares for Direct Hit

Taiwan prepares for Typhoon Krathon's landfall near Kaohsiung. Two casualties reported as the island shuts down transportation and financial markets, with authorities issuing warnings and safety measures.

Society, Business, Science • October 3 2024, 08:53 AM  •  191 views
Israel Faces Multiple Threats as Global Crises Unfold

Israel Faces Multiple Threats as Global Crises Unfold

Israel confronts challenges from Lebanon, Gaza, and Iran, while Ukraine boosts weapons production. Severe storms ravage the US and Taiwan, and US vice presidential candidates debate key issues.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 11:18 PM  •  5443 views
German Navy's Taiwan Strait Transit Sparks Chinese Scrutiny

German Navy's Taiwan Strait Transit Sparks Chinese Scrutiny

German warships navigated the Taiwan Strait, drawing close monitoring from Chinese vessels. The transit, part of Germany's Indo-Pacific deployment, underscores international maritime tensions and freedom of navigation efforts.

Politics • October 2 2024, 10:24 AM  •  226 views
Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon Approaches Taiwan: Massive Evacuations Underway

Typhoon Krathon advances towards Taiwan, prompting large-scale evacuations. Authorities brace for impact as the storm, with winds up to 173 kph, is set to make an unusual landfall on the island's west coast.

Society, Science • October 2 2024, 10:03 AM  •  0 views
Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: Nationwide Shutdown Ahead of Landfall

Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: Nationwide Shutdown Ahead of Landfall

Taiwan prepares for Typhoon Krathon, closing schools and businesses. The storm is expected to hit the western coast, prompting widespread precautions and evoking memories of past disasters.

Society, Politics, Science • October 2 2024, 12:55 AM  •  1652 views
Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

The balance of power in U. S. foreign policy has shifted towards the executive branch, but Congress is showing signs of reclaiming its constitutional role. Recent actions demonstrate its potential to shape critical decisions.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 04:06 AM  •  627 views
Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan Braces for Powerful Typhoon Krathon After Philippines Impact

Taiwan prepares for Typhoon Krathon, closing schools and evacuating vulnerable areas. The storm, which previously affected the Philippines, is expected to hit Kaohsiung before moving across the island.

Society, Business, Science • October 1 2024, 04:03 AM  •  527 views
China's Communist Party: 75 Years of Power and Transformation

China's Communist Party: 75 Years of Power and Transformation

China's Communist Party marks 75 years of rule, evolving from Mao's tumultuous era to economic powerhouse. Now facing slower growth and global tensions, it aims for national "rejuvenation" by 2049.

Economics, Politics • October 1 2024, 03:07 AM  •  473 views
Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: 40,000 Troops Mobilized

Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: 40,000 Troops Mobilized

Taiwan prepares for Typhoon Krathon's landfall on its populous southwest coast. Nearly 40,000 troops mobilized as Kaohsiung declares holiday. Coast guard races to rescue 19 sailors who abandoned ship.

Society, Business, Politics • October 1 2024, 02:30 AM  •  567 views
China Marks 75 Years of Communist Rule Amid Economic and Security Challenges

China Marks 75 Years of Communist Rule Amid Economic and Security Challenges

China commemorates 75 years of Communist Party governance, facing economic hurdles and regional tensions. Xi Jinping warns of future challenges as the nation grapples with property slump and international disputes.

Economics, Politics • October 1 2024, 12:26 AM  •  522 views
State-Level Foreign Lobbying: A New Frontier in US Political Influence

State-Level Foreign Lobbying: A New Frontier in US Political Influence

Recent indictments reveal a shift in foreign lobbying efforts from federal to state-level officials in the US. This trend raises concerns about the vulnerability of local governments to foreign influence.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 12:52 PM  •  899 views
Taiwan Hikes Power Prices for Large Industries, Spares Households

Taiwan Hikes Power Prices for Large Industries, Spares Households

Taiwan announces a 12. 5% electricity price increase for major industrial users, effective October 16, 2024. The move aims to reduce state-run Taipower's losses while maintaining low rates for households and small businesses.

Business, Economics • September 30 2024, 12:49 PM  •  529 views
Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

Vietnamese Fishing Vessel Attacked Near Disputed Paracel Islands

A Vietnamese fishing boat was assaulted near the contested Paracel Islands, resulting in injuries to 10 crew members. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea region.

Economics, Politics • September 30 2024, 12:48 PM  •  537 views
Biden Approves $567 Million Defense Package for Taiwan Amid China Tensions

Biden Approves $567 Million Defense Package for Taiwan Amid China Tensions

President Biden authorizes significant defense support for Taiwan, reinforcing U. S. commitment amid rising China pressures. The move aims to bolster Taiwan's military capabilities despite ongoing diplomatic complexities.

Economics, Politics • September 30 2024, 03:54 AM  •  972 views
Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Powerful Typhoon Krathon Threatens Northern Philippines with Destructive Force

Typhoon Krathon batters northern Philippines with winds up to 175 kph. Authorities implement evacuations, close schools, and halt sea travel as the storm threatens coastal areas with potential devastation.

Society, Science • September 30 2024, 01:26 AM  •  757 views
Taiwan Detects Multiple Missile Launches in China Amid Rising Tensions

Taiwan Detects Multiple Missile Launches in China Amid Rising Tensions

Taiwan's Defense Ministry reports multiple missile firings within China, following a recent intercontinental ballistic missile test. The island nation remains vigilant as regional tensions escalate.

Politics • September 29 2024, 03:26 PM  •  479 views