⮪ GuidesUpdated 2/19/2025 - 7 min read

Primer on Taiwan

Taiwan (台灣) is a small island nation home to around 23 million people, nestled in the Pacific Ocean next to its intimidating brother, China. For the itinerant, it's an exotic destination where bubble tea was born, scooters outnumber cars, and night markets delight the appetite. But the story doesn't end there.

Technological Powerhouse

Despite its modest size, the island manages to punch above its weight. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Taiwan's flagship tech company, is a global leader in advanced computer chip manufacturing, earning its reputation as a household name worldwide. TSMC produces over 50% of the world's semiconductor chips, powering everything from smartphones to automotive technologies. Every time you pick up your smartphone or fire up a video game on that sleek PC with the latest graphics card, you're wielding a fragment of Taiwan's tech magic. As tech mogul Tim Cook said, "Apple would not exist without Taiwan." On the geopolitical stage, Taiwan is a trailblazer of democratic rights in the East. In 2019, it made history as the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, proving that this tiny island isn't just talking the talk—it stands as a shining beacon of free speech, human rights, and political transparency.

Dynamic History

Taiwan's history is a blend of indigenous culture, Chinese influence, and periods of colonial rule, including by the Dutch (1624-1662) and the Japanese (1895-1945). One significant milestone was the 1895 Treaty of Shimonoseki, which ceded Taiwan to Japan, a period marked by extensive infrastructure development, including the construction of railroads and schools. After Japan's defeat in World War II, Taiwan was placed under the administrative control of the Republic of China (ROC), but tensions between the ROC and Communist forces in mainland China led to the retreat of the ROC government to Taiwan in 1949, after the Chinese Civil War. This marked the beginning of the “two Chinas” situation, with Taiwan maintaining its own government and democracy, while the People's Republic of China (PRC) claimed Taiwan as a province.

Democratization and Political Evolution

Taiwan's story took a dramatic turn in the late 20th century. In 1987, Taiwan under the Kuomingtang (KMT) lifted martial law, which had been in place since 1949, and in 1991, Taiwan's National Assembly passed laws granting amnesty to individuals who had fought against the government during the White Terror, a period of political repression. This marked the beginning of Taiwan's transition into a full democracy. In 1992, Taiwan held its first direct elections for the National Assembly, and by 1996, the island held its first direct presidential election, affirming its democratic credentials. Taiwan's first female president, Tsai Ing-wen, was elected in 2016, a symbol of the country's progressive nature. Taiwan's significance on the global stage is often emphasized by the U.S. government, which has maintained informal relations through the Taiwan Relations Act.

A Hodgepodge of Ambitions

Today, Taiwan is known not only for its democratic achievements but also for its commitment to technological innovation, education, and cultural preservation. The island continues to evolve, balancing its rich history with modern developments. Taiwan is also known for its high literacy rate of 98%, and its education system places a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. The National Taiwan University, often ranked among the top universities in Asia, regularly produces leaders in the fields of science, technology, and engineering. From its bustling cities to its serene mountain villages, Taiwan is a melting pot of cultures, history, and progress that is also reflected in its hybrid cuisine, which combines local indigenous ingredients with influences from Chinese, Japanese, and Western traditions.

Historical Timeline & Milestones

Notable Taiwanese People