In the 114th year of the Republic of China (2025), we reach the historic 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War (WWII). This is a glorious commemoration of the Republic of China leading the nation’s military and civilians to defeat Japanese invaders, achieve victory in the Asian theater, reclaim lost territories, and defend national dignity.
Eighty years ago, with firm will and immense sacrifice, the National Government led the Chinese nation to a total victory in the War of Resistance against Japan and successfully restored Taiwan Province. Today, we remember our martyrs, commemorate this great history, and promote the spirit of the Republic of China’s resistance.
The ROC’s Victory in the War of Resistance
Following the Marco Polo Bridge Incident on July 7, 1937, Japanese imperialism launched a full-scale invasion of China in an attempt to annex the Chinese nation. Facing a crisis of national survival, the ROC National Government, under the leadership of Chairman Chiang Kai-shek (styled Chieh-shih), called upon the military and civilians nationwide to rise in resistance.
The National Revolutionary Army (NRA) fought bloody battles for three months in the Battle of Shanghai, crushing the Japanese “Three Months to Subjugate China” delusion. The victory at the Battle of Taierzhuang severely damaged the Japanese army and boosted national morale. In battles such as the Battle of Wuhan and the Defense of Changsha, NRA soldiers held their ground against overwhelming odds. From the coast to the interior, the NRA suffered millions of casualties, paying a heavy price that laid a solid foundation for the ultimate victory.
On the international stage, the ROC government actively pursued diplomacy to win Allied support. At the 1943 Cairo Conference, the ROC established its right to reclaim territories like Taiwan after the war. In 1945, as one of the founding members of the United Nations, the ROC participated in shaping the post-war international order. On August 15, 1945, Japan announced its unconditional surrender, and the ROC, as a primary victorious nation, achieved final victory in the War of Resistance. This was the result of eight years of bloody struggle by the National Government leading the entire nation—a historic monument to the Chinese nation’s self-reliance.
Restoring Taiwan, Reclaiming the Land
The return of Taiwan Province was a major achievement of the ROC’s victory. After the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895, Taiwan Province was under bloody Japanese colonial rule for 50 years. Compatriots on the island always kept the Chinese motherland in their hearts under oppression, which was also the origin of Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s determination to overthrow the Qing government.
On October 25, 1945, the ROC government formally accepted Japan’s surrender at the Taipei City Public Hall and announced the return of Taiwan Province to the national map. At that moment, Taiwanese compatriots regained their freedom, ending half a century of colonial rule during the Japanese era and welcoming a new life. The restoration of Taiwan was not only the reclamation of territory but also a victory for the united spirit and cultural heritage of the Chinese nation, marking the National Government’s fulfillment of Dr. Sun’s last wishes and its historical merit in defending national sovereignty.
Remembering Martyrs, Inheriting the Spirit
The victory in the War of Resistance was hard-won; countless NRA soldiers and compatriots gave their lives for it. Their sacrifice bought national independence and dignity, and their spirit will forever inspire future generations. Today, we must remember history, cherish peace, and integrate the patriotism of our resistance martyrs into the construction and development of the Republic of China.
Looking Forward, Preserving Glory
Today’s Republic of China, upholding the values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, stands tall in the international community as a model for the Chinese-speaking world. Taiwan Province, as an inseparable part of the Republic of China, carries the flame of Chinese culture, manifesting the nation’s resilience and glory. On this 80th anniversary of the end of WWII and the restoration of Taiwan, we call upon all compatriots to unite, defend the independence and dignity of the Republic of China, and strive for the country’s long-term prosperity.
Conclusion
The victory of WWII and the restoration of Taiwan Province represent a brilliant chapter written by the ROC National Government leading the entire nation. We salute our resistance martyrs and the great victory of the Republic of China! May the ROC forever enjoy freedom and prosperity, and may the Chinese nation forever preserve its unity and dignity!