The tension between China and Taiwan centres on the contention regarding Taiwan's political status. This conflict originated following the transfer of Taiwan's administration from Japan to the Republic of China in 1945, subsequent to the conclusion of the Second World War. It was further exacerbated by the division between the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Republic of China (ROC) that arose from the Chinese Civil War.

Taiwan is recognized as an island nation and is included in the "first island chain." This chain comprises several territories that maintain a favourable relationship with the United States, which are significant for American foreign policy interests. Located approximately 100 miles from the south-eastern coast of China, Taiwan operates under its own constitution. The nation boasts an active military force of approximately 300,000 personnel, alongside a democratically elected government.

The Question of Taiwan's Sovereignty: A Historical Overview

17th Century
Taiwan was fully integrated into China during the 17th century when the Qing dynasty began its governance of the island.

1895
In 1895, following China's defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan.

1945-1949
After Japan's defeat in World War II in 1945, control of Taiwan was restored to China.

Following this, a civil war erupted in mainland China, significantly altering the political landscape. The conflict was fought between the nationalist government, led by Chiang Kai-shek, and the Communist Party, under the leadership of Mao Zedong.

In a surprising turn of events, the Communist Party emerged victorious in 1949, seizing control of Beijing.

Consequently, the defeated Kuomintang, led by Chiang Kai-shek, retreated to Taiwan, where they governed for several decades. This party has played a significant role in the historical narrative of the island nation.

This raises the question of whether Taiwan has always been a part of China.

Proponents of the Chinese perspective argue that Taiwan has historically been a part of China, bolstering their claim with historical references.

In contrast, Taiwan disputes this assertion.

Additional topics within these files are far reaching and involve many facets of Chinese leadership instructions on conflicts , other nations operating within China , control aspects of society.