Niki Alsford Libri

Set against the backdrop of 1895 Taiwan, the narrative follows British Consul Lionel Charles Hopkins as he confronts a critical decision regarding the island's future amidst the threat of Japanese invasion. The story delves into the political dynamics of the time, exploring the implications of Britain's refusal to establish a protectorate. Through this lens, the book examines a significant moment in Taiwan's history, highlighting the complexities of colonial interests and local aspirations.

From a cradle of Austronesian expansion to the dynamic economic powerhouse and successful democracy it is today, Taiwan is layered in colonial histories. In Taiwan Lives, Niki J. P. Alsford presents a comprehensive examination of the island nation?s rich and complex past, told through the life stories of those who have lived it. A merchant, an exile, an activist, a pop star, a doctor, and a president are just some of the twenty-four individuals whose lives populate this people's history of Taiwan. Ranging across time, social strata, ethnicity, and political alliance, these tales offer snapshots of historical eras and illustrate the interwoven fabric of colonialism. Chapters can be read in sequence or individually. With clear and accessible prose, Taiwan Lives is ideal for undergraduate course use.