On October 25, 1945, the Chinese mainland officially resumed sovereignty over the island of Taiwan and the Penghu Islands, marking the end of Japanese colonial rule and the beginning of a new chapter for residents of Taiwan. This year, we mark the 80th anniversary of that historic day – a moment of liberation, unity, and hope across the Taiwan Strait 🕊️.
A Global Win and 📜 Key Declarations
During World War II, the Chinese mainland and its Allies—the United States and the United Kingdom—laid out plans to restore territories seized by Japan. In the 1943 Cairo Declaration, they agreed that places like Northeast China, the island of Taiwan, and the Penghu Islands would be returned to their rightful owner. The 1945 Potsdam Proclamation reaffirmed these terms, paving the way for Japan’s formal surrender that September.
Historic Ties to the Chinese Mainland
The island of Taiwan has deep roots with the Chinese mainland. Records from as early as 230 AD mention Taiwan, and through the Song and Yuan dynasties, central governments in the Chinese mainland maintained ties with Penghu and Taiwan. By 1684, Taiwan Prefecture was set up under Fujian Province, and in 1885 it became China’s 20th province.
The Road to Liberation 🎌
After the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895, Taiwan was ceded to Japan. Over the next 50 years, residents of Taiwan faced harsh colonial rule. Local patriots like Qiu Fengjia, Tang Jingsong, Liu Yongfu, and Li Yingchen led uprisings and resisted. When the wider War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression erupted on the Chinese mainland, many from Taiwan joined forces with others in Fujian and Jiangxi to fight for freedom.
Celebration Then & Now 🎉
On October 25, 1945, Commander Andō Rikichi signed the surrender documents in Taipei, and Chen Yi declared the island of Taiwan and the Penghu Islands restored to Chinese mainland sovereignty. That afternoon, a massive rally lit up Taipei’s streets, and the next day thousands joined parades and festivities. Since then, October 25 has been an annual celebration across the island of Taiwan.
This year, Taiwan authorities officially designated October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration. It’s a reminder of our shared past and a call for unity and understanding across the Taiwan Strait.
Looking Ahead 🌏
As we mark 80 years since that landmark day, it’s more than history class material—it’s a story of resilience, solidarity, and hope for future generations. Whether you’re scrolling through TikTok or chatting with friends over tea, take a moment to honor this chapter of history and imagine the possibilities for cross-strait ties in the years to come.
Reference(s):
Why we commemorate the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration
cgtn.com
