Rebel Island : the incredible history of Taiwan

(Author) Jonathan Clements
Format: Hardcover
Price: £22.00
In Stock

Once dismissed by the Kangxi Emperor as nothing but a 'ball of mud', Taiwan has a modern GDP larger than that of Sweden, in a land area smaller than Indiana. It is the last surviving enclave of the Republic of China, a lost colony of Japan, and claimed by Beijing as a rogue province - merely the latest chapters in its long history as a refuge for pirates, rebels, settlers, and outcasts. Jonathan Clements examines the unique conditions of Taiwan's archaeology and indigenous history, and its days as a Dutch and Spanish trading post. He delves into its periods as an independent kingdom, Chinese province, and short-lived republic, and the transformations wrought by 50 years as part of the Japanese Empire. He examines the traumatic effects of its role as a lifeboat in 1949 for two million refugees from Communism, and the conflicts emerging after the suspension of four decades of martial law, as its people debate issues of self-determination, independence, and home rule. 'Rich with fascinating details, Jonathan Clements' Rebel Island is an engaging introduction to the complicated and astonishing history of Taiwan.' -Shawna Yang Ryan, author of Green Island 'Taiwan has become a stresspoint of global geopolitics, and Jonathan Clements has done the world a favour with his indispensable account of its complex history. This illuminating and endlessly fascinating book can't help but change the way we see the Taiwanese people and what they have built.' -Clive Hamilton, author of Hidden Hand 'Rebel Island narrates the long arc of Taiwan's history in vivid prose and with admirable sensitivity to contemporary views regarding the island's politically charged past. Clements provides an even-handed treatment of controversies old and new, while engaging readers with revealing anecdotes and his trademark wit.' -Paul D. Barclay, author of Kondo the Barbarian

Information
Publisher:
Scribe Publications
Format:
Hardcover
Number of pages:
None
Language:
en
ISBN:
9781915590275
Publish year:
2024
Publish date:
Feb. 8, 2024

Jonathan Clements

Jonathan Clements is a renowned author and historian best known for his work "A Brief History of the Vikings." His writing style is engaging and informative, making complex historical events accessible to readers. Clements has made significant contributions to the field of history and literature through his insightful research and storytelling.

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