Taiwan's Development as Free China

In nine years the Chinese Nationalists have made substantial strides in rebuilding their government, morale, and symbolic appeal. Many of the civilian accomplishments on Taiwan have received little notice in the outside world. In the grim period, 1949-50, the Nationalist cause appeared hopeless, but United States protection and support since the Communist aggression in Korea in June 1950 have facilitated positive achievements. 1951 and 1952 were years of reform, followed by a four-year (1953-56) period of adjustment and planning. During these years increased emphasis was placed on building Taiwan's symbolism as a repository of Chinese culture. In 1957 and 1958 the cumulative effect of domestic reforms and United States aid brought a burst of flowering in economic and cultural fields. Six areas of major achievement in Taiwan deserve special mention: the land reform program, internationally acclaimed as a model; the work of the Joint Commission on Rural Reconstruction; improved living conditions which give Taiwan the highest standard of living in Southeast Asia; development of democratic and responsible local government; the expansion of public education and cultural activities; and the building of an efficient military force making a substantial contribution to Free-World defenses in Asia. But some problems persist: the inability of the Kuomintang to capture the imagination of the Chinese intellectuals and youth who remain outside Communist control, continued psychological tensions, and population pressure. A complete reorganization of the Kuomintang and the development in Taiwan of a new philosophy of democracy for China would be desirable; but these changes depend upon initiative from Chiang Kai-shek and seem difficult within the present crisis context. On balance, though, the Nationalists have succeeded to a point where their cause cannot be ignored.