228 Memorial Monument Introduction
Construction of the Memorial: On February 28, 1989, in Chiayi City, the first 【228 Memorial】 in Taiwan was established, marking the trajectory of democratic development. 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 thwarted the construction of the monument in various ways. However, through the insistence of individuals like Zhang Bo-ya and the public, the monument was finally erected in Chiayi in 1989, becoming the first 【228 Memorial】 in the country. This white, three-dimensional, conical monument features three inscriptions detailing the history of the monument’s construction, the spirit behind it, and a brief history of the February 28 incident. It serves as a reminder to learn from historical lessons, move beyond tragedy, respect life, and pursue justice. Text of the 228 Memorial: After World War II, Taiwan was freed from Japanese rule and hoped to enjoy a free and democratic life thereafter. However, the Chinese regime took over Taiwan, and the officials sent by Chen Yi were corrupt, incompetent, and abused their privileges. Coupled with a devastated post-war economy and rising prices, the Taiwanese people faced hardship and frustration, leading to widespread discontent. On February 27, 1947, in Dadaocheng, Taipei, officials arrested a vendor selling contraband cigarettes, injuring a female vendor in the process, and subsequently shot protestors. The next day, February 28, Taipei citizens petitioned for a strict investigation of the suspects but were met with machine gun fire, igniting widespread protests across Taiwan demanding comprehensive reform, known as the 【February 28 Incident】. Initially, Chen Yi pretended to compromise but privately requested military assistance from China. After the mainland troops landed, a massive slaughter and pacification campaign ensued, resulting in countless casualties among Taiwan's elite, with grievances left unaddressed for forty years. Today, the construction of this memorial serves to vindicate those who suffered, honor the sacrifices of our predecessors, and urge future generations to learn from history and vow to uphold justice and peace in Taiwan forever.
