Taiwan: Tiny East Asian Country Claimed by China as its Own
Japan occupied Taiwan after defeating China’s military forces in 1895. But after the World War II China once again established its control over Taiwan. In 1949 communist victory in China resulted in the flight 2 million Chinese to Taiwan who established a government using the 1946 constitution drawn up for all of China. For the next five decades the ruling authorities democratized and incorporated the local population within the governing structure. In 2000 Taiwan underwent a peaceful transfer of power from the nationalist Taiwan Kuomintang Party to the Democratic Progressive Party. The dominant political issues continue to be the relationship between Taiwan and China specifically on the question of eventual unification as well as domestic political and economic reform.
Taiwan Profile: Overview of Facts and Figures
Culture, Cuisine and Tradition of Taiwan:
The culture of Taiwan is a fine blend of distinctive Chinese heritage and Western influences. The influences of the Dutch, Spain and Japanese culture can also be seen on the culture of Taiwan. The government launched a program promoting Chinese calligraphy, traditional Chinese painting, folk art, and Chinese opera. Still the status of Taiwanese culture is debated. It is disputed whether Taiwanese culture is part of Chinese culture or a distinct culture. Speaking Taiwanese as a symbol of the localization movement has become an emblem of Taiwanese identity.
Economy of Taiwan:
The decades of hard work and sound economic management helped Taiwan to transform its economy from an underdeveloped, agricultural island to an economic power that is a leading producer of high-technology goods. In the 1960’s massive foreign investment in Taiwan helped introduce modern, labor-intensive technology and after a decade Taiwan became a major exporter of labor-intensive products. In the 1980 government of Taiwan shifted its focus toward capital-intensive and technology-intensive products for export and developing the service sector. This also benefited Taiwan and emerged as the one of the major producer of electronics goods. Taiwan is one of Asia's ‘Four Tigers’ along with South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Tourist Attractions of Taiwan:
Taiwan is one of the most advanced and beautiful countries of the world and remains a hot spot for tourists due to its cultural legacy, natural scenic landscapes, and historical sites along with examples of modern architectural wonders.
Taipei: the country’s capital, is a modern metropolis comparable to the most advanced cities in Asia and the world. It is famous for its several world-class museums, art galleries and historical sights. The Taipei 101 is one of the tallest buildings in the world.
Yangmingshan National Park: is famous for its hot spring and fumaroles, the tranquil lakes and beautiful grass fields. The scenic composition with variety of trees, birds and animal’s remain the center of attraction for tourists
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