Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), stands as a vibrant and geopolitically significant nation in East Asia. Strategically perched at the dynamic intersection of the East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, it shares maritime borders with the People's Republic of China (PRC) to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.

While comprising 168 islands, encompassing a total area of 36,193 square kilometers (13,974 sq mi), the island of Taiwan itself—historically known as Formosa—dominates with an area of 35,808 square kilometers (13,826 sq mi). Its landscape is dramatically divided, with rugged mountain ranges defining the eastern two-thirds and fertile plains gracing the western third, which hosts its remarkably urbanized population. The bustling capital, Taipei, along with New Taipei City and Keelung, forms the nation's largest metropolitan area. Other significant urban centers include Kaohsiung, Taichung, Tainan, and Taoyuan. Home to 23.45 million inhabitants, Taiwan is renowned as one of the most densely populated countries globally.

A Rich Tapestry of History and Transformation

Taiwan's story stretches back approximately 6,000 years, beginning with the Austronesian-speaking ancestors of its indigenous peoples who first settled the island. The 17th century marked a new chapter with the arrival of European powers, leading to large-scale Han Chinese immigration to western Taiwan under Dutch colonial rule. This influx continued through the era of the Kingdom of Tungning. The island was subsequently annexed by the Qing dynasty of China in 1683, only to be ceded to the rising Empire of Japan in 1895, where it remained until the mid-20th century.

Following Japan's surrender in 1945 at the close of World War II, the Republic of China (ROC), which had overthrown the Qing dynasty in 1911, assumed control of Taiwan on behalf of the Allied powers. However, the joy of liberation was short-lived as the Chinese Civil War resumed with intensity. This tumultuous period culminated in the ROC's loss of mainland China to the forces of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Consequently, in 1949, the ROC government, along with approximately two million people, retreated to Taiwan, establishing its effective jurisdiction over the island and numerous smaller surrounding islands.

The Taiwan Miracle and Democratic Flourishing

The early 1960s ushered in an extraordinary period of rapid economic growth and industrialization for Taiwan, a phenomenon widely celebrated as the "Taiwan Miracle." Beyond economic prowess, Taiwan embarked on a remarkable political journey. The late 1980s and early 1990s witnessed the ROC's peaceful transition from a one-party military dictatorship to a vibrant multi-party democracy, adopting a semi-presidential system.

Today, Taiwan's export-oriented industrial economy ranks as the 21st-largest globally by nominal GDP and the 20th-largest by PPP measures, driven by formidable contributions from sectors like steel, machinery, electronics, and chemicals manufacturing. As a developed country, Taiwan proudly holds the 15th position in GDP per capita, and consistently receives high rankings for its political and civil liberties, education system, healthcare, and overall human development.

A Complex International Identity

The international standing of Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, remains a subject of considerable political contention. In 1971, UN members voted to recognize the PRC instead of the ROC as the sole legitimate representative of China, significantly altering Taiwan's global diplomatic landscape. While the ROC historically maintained its claim as the sole legitimate government of all China, this stance has been downplayed since its democratization in the 1990s. The PRC, however, continues to claim Taiwan as its own territory and steadfastly refuses diplomatic relations with any country that formally recognizes the ROC.

Despite these challenges, Taiwan maintains official diplomatic relations with 13 out of 193 UN member states and the Holy See. Crucially, many other nations uphold robust unofficial diplomatic ties through a network of representative offices and institutions that effectively function as de facto embassies and consulates. Within international organizations where the PRC participates, Taiwan is often either denied membership or permitted to join only on a non-state basis, under various alternative names, reflecting the ongoing diplomatic complexities. Domestically, the political discourse is primarily shaped by the dynamic interplay between parties advocating for eventual Chinese unification and promoting a pan-Chinese identity, contrasted with those championing formal international recognition and fostering a distinct Taiwanese identity. In the 21st century, both major political blocs have somewhat moderated their positions to broaden their appeal to the electorate.

The Landmark 1996 Presidential Election

A truly pivotal moment in Taiwan's democratic evolution occurred on March 23, 1996, with the nation holding its first direct presidential election. This marked a monumental departure from previous practices, where the president and vice president had been chosen by deputies of the National Assembly, as stipulated by the 1947 constitution. These were, unequivocally, the first free and direct elections in the history of Taiwan, ushering in a new era of popular sovereignty.

The 1996 election saw the incumbent, Lee Teng-hui, standing as the candidate for the ruling Kuomintang (KMT), triumphantly re-elected as President, with Lien Chan as his Vice President. Lee secured a decisive majority of 54% of the votes cast. This historic election was not without its external pressures. Prior to the vote, the People's Republic of China (PRC) conducted a series of missile tests near Taiwan, a transparent attempt to intimidate the Taiwanese electorate and discourage support for Lee. However, in a significant miscalculation, this coercive tactic ultimately backfired, strengthening resolve rather than weakening it. Despite, or perhaps because of, these tensions, voter turnout was a robust 76.0%, underscoring the Taiwanese people's deep commitment to their newfound democratic rights.

Frequently Asked Questions about Taiwan

What is Taiwan's official name?

Taiwan's official name is the Republic of China (ROC).

Where is Taiwan located?

Taiwan is located in East Asia, at the junction of the East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocean.

What is the capital of Taiwan?

The capital city of Taiwan is Taipei, which forms the largest metropolitan area along with New Taipei City and Keelung.

When did Taiwan become a democracy?

Taiwan transitioned from a one-party military dictatorship to a multi-party democracy in the late 1980s and early 1990s, culminating in its first direct presidential election in 1996.

What is the "Taiwan Miracle"?

The "Taiwan Miracle" refers to a period of rapid economic growth and industrialization that Taiwan experienced starting in the early 1960s, transforming it into a developed country.

What is Taiwan's international political status?

Taiwan's international political status is contentious. The UN recognized the PRC over the ROC in 1971, and while Taiwan maintains official diplomatic relations with a small number of states, many others maintain robust unofficial ties. The PRC claims Taiwan as its own territory.