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

Defectors from the People's Republic of China (PRC) played a significant role in the narrative of the Republic of China (ROC) in Taiwan during the Cold War, but their stories have previously been overlooked in English. Morris examines the backgrounds, motivations, and experiences of these defectors, exploring how they understood the ROC and how they adapted to life in Taiwan. This book provides valuable insights into 20th-century China, Taiwan, and the Cold War, and is a valuable resource for students and scholars in these fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
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 turmoil of the 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 how they adapted to life in Taiwan. He also examines how these individual migration stories were perceived as crucial in demonstrating the 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 on 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 experiences of defectors, Morris offers a humanizing perspective on a topic that has often been portrayed in stark ideological terms.

Overall, "Defectors from the People's Republic of China: The Cold War and the Making of Two Chinese States" is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the complex history and geopolitical dynamics of the Cold War era.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032221731