ABSTRACT
The organization of this chapter is suggestive of the constant Japanese presence. It, beginning with the annexation and military takeover of Taiwan in 1895–1897, and ending with the 1937–1945 wartime period, denotes a distinct time frame set off by Japanese policies and actions. The annexation of Taiwan was also based on practical considerations of benefit to Japan. The large and productive island could furnish provisions and raw materials for Japan’s expanding economy and become a ready market for Japanese goods. The 1914 Taiwan assimilation movement was led by Itagaki Taisuke, a venerable politician and statesman living in retirement in Japan. Itagaki had been attracted to the cause of assimilation not only because of his egalitarian views and strong predilection to bolster Japanese national interests abroad but also in response to personal appeals made by distraught visitors from Taiwan.
