TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A major historical exhibition opened Tuesday (Oct. 21) examining Taiwan's complex transition from Japanese colonial rule to Republic of China governance in 1945. Taiwan Historica (國史館台灣文獻館) in Nantou City launched "Light and Shadows: Key Historical Materials of Taiwan Around 1945" (亮光與暗影：1945年前後的台灣重要史料微型展) to encourage diverse understanding of this pivotal period.
The exhibition features crucial historical documents from the National Archives and Taiwan Historica, including the Cairo Declaration, World War II's end, surrender ceremonies, and early Republic of China governance. These materials provide comprehensive documentation of Taiwan's transition from Japanese colonial rule to Chinese administration. The collection offers unprecedented insight into this transformative historical period.
Organizers included key historical materials from Chinese Nationalist government figures, the U.S., U.K., Japan, and Taiwan. The exhibition showcases Chiang Kai-shek's diary and contributions from late scholar Ong Iok-tek (王育德), highlighting diverse aspects of post-war Taiwan. Taiwan Historica notes the display captures both liberation joy and governance challenges, including events leading to the 228 Incident in 1947.
The exhibition presents approximately 21 public and private documents from the 1945 regime transition period, donated by Kuo Heng-ching (郭恆慶) and others. These materials enrich the historical narrative of Taiwan's decolonization process. The display provides visitors unique opportunities to explore Taiwan's complex historical landscape and multifaceted post-war narratives. ◼
