Defectors from the PRC to Taiwan, 1960-1989: The Anti-Communist Righteous Warriors

During the Cold War,defectors from the People's Republic of China (PRC) played a significant role in the narrative of the Republic of China (ROC) in Taiwan. Morris' book explores the stories behind these headlines, the understanding of the ROC by defectors, and their lives in Taiwan after defecting. It provides valuable insights into the differences and continuities between the two Chinese states and is a valuable resource for students and scholars of 20th-century China and Taiwan, as well as the Cold War and its impact in Asia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Defecting from the People's Republic of China (PRC) was a significant aspect of the narrative of the Republic of China (ROC) in Taiwan during the Cold War. However, their stories have previously received limited attention and scrutiny in English. During the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, the ROC government placed great emphasis on these anti-communist heroes, known as "fangong yishi." Their decision to leave the tumultuous PRC was a propaganda victory for the Nationalist one-party state in Taiwan, showcasing the superiority of the Free China they had established there. In his book, Morris delves into the backgrounds of these defectors, exploring their understanding of the ROC before their arrival and the challenges they faced in their post-defection lives in Taiwan. He also examines how these individual migration histories were perceived as crucial in demonstrating differences between the two regimes while simultaneously highlighting important continuities between the two Chinese states.

This book is a valuable resource for students and scholars interested in 20th-century China, Taiwan, and the Cold War's impact in Asia. It sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history and provides a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between the two Chinese states during a pivotal period of global politics. By examining the personal stories of defectors, Morris offers a humanizing perspective on a complex and often-overlooked topic, contributing to our broader understanding of the Cold War and its enduring legacies.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367464578