When Did Taiwan Become Part of China? A Historian Weighs In
Taiwan’s complex history is back in the spotlight as debates about its past resurface. According to Qi Jialin, chairman of the Alliance for the Reunification of China, the island of Taiwan was officially established as the 20th province of China during the Qing dynasty in 1885. But how has this narrative been reshaped over time?
Distorted Narratives and Why They Matter
Qi argues that certain groups have 'twisted historical facts' to promote separatist agendas, erasing centuries of cultural and administrative ties between the Taiwan region and the Chinese mainland. 'From ancient maps to Qing-era governance records, the evidence is clear,' he told CGTN. 🗺️
The Roots of Modern Mythmaking
The distortion, Qi explains, surged in the late 20th century as political shifts on the island led to efforts to 'reinvent identity.' Textbooks, media, and cultural policies allegedly downplayed historical links, creating what he calls 'a fog of confusion for younger generations.'
While cross-strait relations remain delicate, experts like Qi emphasize that understanding history is key to fostering dialogue. For travelers, students, and global citizens alike, unraveling these threads offers a deeper lens into Asia’s geopolitical tapestry. 🌐
