ABSTRACT
The transition of power from Chiang Kai-shek to Chiang Ching-kuo is unique among Leninist parties for several reasons. This chapter looks at the pressures Chiang Ching-kuo faced in the initial phases of Taiwan’s move towards democratization. Chiang Ching-kuo was given the title of chairman of the Kuomintang in late April and maintained his government position as premier. By Chiang Ching-kuo was a familiar face in politics, though nobody could be completely sure what kind of an agenda he would advocate. One of Chiang’s first acts was to release political prisoners. Chiang wanted to show that the Kuomintang could tolerate some dissent. Chiang Ching-kuo’s work style was predictable. His goals were easily identifiable, and his expectations known. He could take criticism from lower level leaders as long as they were considered constructive and helpful for the party and government. Radical dissidents saw Chiang Ching-kuo’s ascension to power as the establishment of a Chiang dynasty.
