Taiwan Retrocession Day: October 25
Taiwan observes Retrocession Day as a public holiday.
Every year on October 25, Retrocession Day is an annual observance in Taiwan commemorating the end of 50 years of Japanese rule in 1945.
Taiwan Retrocession Day History
Taiwan was given away to the Japanese after China lost the Sino-Japanese War in 1894. This began a half-century of Japanese colonial reign on the island. The colonial rulers treated the people on Taiwan as second rate citizens. The colonial rulers’ era was one of adversity and torment for the islanders. Several unsuccessful uprisings were initiated by the locals and thousands died as a result. Nevertheless, they gave testament to the valiant character of the people. With the signing of the Instrument of Surrender on August 15, 1945, freedom was restored in Taiwan. The Japanese rule of Taiwan officially ended in October 25, 1945. Taiwan designated this day as Retrocession Day in memory of this event.
The people in Taiwan erupted with jubilation and merriment when they heard of this news. Taiwan’s economy grew with exceptional pace after retrocession. The people’s standard of living transformed a great deal for the better.
The proclamation of retrocession was somewhat contentious because none of the Allies acknowledged the turn over of Taiwan’s territorial sovereignty to the ROC when the Japanese surrendered.
Taiwan Retrocession Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
To celebrate the important significance of October 25, every year, families hang the national flag to remind themselves of the days when Taiwan was subjected to foreign rule and to appreciate the present accomplishments of its country. In the Republic of China, Retrocession Day is currently not an official public holiday. The Democratic Progressive Party has downplayed this event during their two recent terms of Taiwan rule because it rejects the idea of Taiwan being taken back by China.
Other interesting posts:
- Taiwan Celebrates Chiang Kai-Shek Day
- Taiwan celebrates Double Tenth Day
- Sun Yat-sen Is Remembered in Taiwan
- The Birthday of Confucius Celebrated in China and Taiwan
- Taiwan Armed Forces Day
Other interesting posts:
