228 Memorial Monument Introduction
The monument was built on February 28, 1989, marking the trajectory of democratic development. Chiayi City is the first place in Taiwan to break political taboos and establish the country’s first 228 Memorial Monument. The February 28 Incident, which occurred in 1947, is a heartbreaking historical tragedy. At that time, both the central and Taiwan provincial governments regarded the incident as a taboo and tried to hinder the construction of the monument in every possible way. However, under the perseverance of Chang Po-ya and the people, the monument was finally erected in Chiayi in 1989, becoming the first 228 Memorial Monument in the country. This white, three-dimensional conical monument is adorned with three tablets that detail the process of its construction, the spirit of the monument, and a brief history of the February 28 Incident. It is hoped that we will learn from historical lessons, rise from sorrow, respect life, and pursue justice. After World War II, Taiwan was liberated from Japanese rule, and the expectation was that it could enjoy a free and democratic life thereafter. However, the Chinese regime's takeover was marked by the corruption and incompetence of officials sent to Taiwan, leading to rampant privileges. Coupled with a devastated post-war economy and soaring prices, the living conditions of the Taiwanese people became harsh, giving rise to widespread discontent and calls for protest across the island. On February 27, 1947, in Dadaocheng, Taipei, officials tried to crack down on illegal tobacco, resulting in the brutal beating of a female vendor and subsequent shooting of protesting citizens. The next day, February 28, when citizens of Taipei petitioned for severe punishment of the perpetrators, they were met with machine gun fire, leading to an eruption of protests throughout the island—this became known as the February 28 Incident, with demands for full government reform. Initially, Chen Yi feigned compromise but secretly called for troops from China. Once the military landed, they launched a widespread massacre and pacification campaigns across the island, resulting in countless casualties among Taiwanese elites, with injustices remaining unaddressed for forty years. Today, the construction of this monument serves to vindicate these grievances, affirm the sacrifices of our predecessors, and remind future generations to learn from history and swear to uphold permanent justice and peace for Taiwan.
