228 Memorial Monument Introduction
Monument Construction: On February 28, 1989, the first "228 Memorial" in Taiwan was established in Chiayi City, a place that witnessed the trajectory of democratic development and broke the political taboo. The February 28 Incident, which occurred in 1947, is a painful historical tragedy. At that time, both the central and Taiwan provincial governments regarded the February 28 Incident as a taboo and tried to obstruct the construction of the monument. However, under the insistence of Chang Po-ya and the public, the monument was finally built in 1989 in Chiayi, becoming the first "228 Memorial" in Taiwan. This white three-dimensional conical monument is inscribed with three plaques, which detail the process of constructing the monument, the spirit of the monument, and a brief history of the February 28 Incident. It is hoped that the lessons of history will be remembered, that we will rise above sorrow, respect life, and pursue justice. After World War II, Taiwan was liberated from Japanese rule, ushering in hope for a free and democratic life. However, the Chinese regime took control of Taiwan, sending Chen Yi's officials and troops who were corrupt and inept, wielding privilege, coupled with a devastated post-war economy and soaring prices, which led to dire living conditions for the Taiwanese people, who voiced their grievances and anti-government sentiments. Finally, on February 27, 1947, in Dadaocheng, Taipei, officials attempted to arrest a vendor for selling contraband cigarettes, brutally injuring her, which escalated into gunfire against protesting citizens. The next day, on February 28, citizens of Taipei petitioned for severe punishment of the perpetrators but were met with machine gun fire, resulting in widespread protests across Taiwan demanding thorough governmental reform, known as the "February 28 Incident." Initially, Chen Yi pretended to compromise but privately requested troops from the mainland. Once the mainland forces landed, a massive massacre and pacification campaign ensued across the island, causing countless casualties among Taiwan’s elite, leaving many to suffer in silence for forty years. Today, I build this monument to clear the name of the victims, affirm the sacrifices of our predecessors, and pray that future generations remember the lessons of history, vowing to protect Taiwan and ensure lasting justice and peace.
