What Is Peace Memorial Day?
Peace Memorial Day, locally known as “228 Memorial Day,” is a public holiday observed in Taiwan on 28th February each year. It serves as a national day of remembrance for the victims and events of the 228 Incident, a period of violent suppression and political purging that occurred in 1947. The holiday encourages reflection on the historical tragedy and promotes reconciliation and democratic values within Taiwanese society.
The observance acknowledges the suffering endured during the incident and its aftermath, known as the “White Terror” period. It is a day dedicated to honouring those who died and advocating for human rights and justice. While solemn, the day also symbolises Taiwan’s transition towards democracy and its efforts to confront its challenging past.
History and Origins of Peace Memorial Day
The origins of Peace Memorial Day lie in the “228 Incident,” a pivotal event in modern Taiwanese history. After Japan’s defeat in World War II, Taiwan was returned to Chinese rule under the Kuomintang (KMT) government of the Republic of China in 1945. The initial enthusiasm for the return to Chinese governance quickly eroded due to widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, and perceived discriminatory practices by the new administration from mainland China.
On 27th February 1947, government agents assaulted a Taiwanese cigarette vendor for selling untaxed cigarettes in Taipei, triggering public outrage. The next day, 28th February, protests erupted across the island, rapidly escalating into an anti-government uprising. The KMT authorities, initially overwhelmed, called for reinforcements from mainland China. By early March, KMT troops arrived and brutally suppressed the rebellion. Thousands of Taiwanese citizens, including intellectuals, community leaders, and alleged dissidents, were killed or disappeared in the ensuing crackdown. This period of severe political repression and persecution became known as the “White Terror.”
For decades, public discussion of the 228 Incident was forbidden under martial law. It was only after the lifting of martial law in 1987 and the subsequent democratisation of Taiwan that demands for truth, justice, and reparations gained momentum. In 1995, under President Lee Teng-hui, the government officially acknowledged the 228 Incident, offered a formal apology, and established Peace Memorial Day. The 228 Peace Memorial Park in Taipei was also inaugurated to serve as a central site for remembrance.
How Peace Memorial Day Is Celebrated
Peace Memorial Day in Taiwan is primarily a day of solemn remembrance and reconciliation, rather than festivity. Official ceremonies are held across the island, with the President and other high-ranking government officials typically attending a national commemoration at the 228 Peace Memorial Park in Taipei. These events often include speeches, moments of silence, and performances that reflect on the historical events and their impact.
Educational institutions and cultural organisations frequently host exhibitions, seminars, and discussions about the 228 Incident and its legacy. These events aim to inform the public, especially younger generations, about this critical period in Taiwan’s history and to promote human rights and democratic values. Public buildings and memorials related to the incident, such as the 228 Museum, become focal points for reflection.
Many citizens visit memorial sites, lay flowers, and offer respects to the victims. Families of victims often gather for private remembrance. While it is a public holiday, allowing many people a day off work, the atmosphere is generally one of quiet contemplation rather than celebration. The focus remains on historical awareness, healing, and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
When Is Peace Memorial Day?
Peace Memorial Day is observed annually on a fixed date: 28th February. This date directly references the day the 228 Incident began in 1947.
The holiday follows the Gregorian calendar. As it is a public holiday in Taiwan, if 28th February falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a compensatory day off is typically provided on the preceding Friday or the following Monday, ensuring workers receive the benefit of the holiday. This practice is common for public holidays in Taiwan to ensure minimal disruption to the working week when holidays occur on weekends.
Peace Memorial Day Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Holiday |
| Date | 28th February (fixed) |
| Countries | 1 country (Taiwan) |
| Also known as | 228 Memorial Day, 二二八和平紀念日 (Èrèrbā Hépíng Jìniànrì) |
| Calendar system | Gregorian |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peace Memorial Day in Taiwan?
Peace Memorial Day, also known as 228 Memorial Day, is a public holiday in Taiwan observed on 28th February. It commemorates the victims and events of the 228 Incident, a violent suppression of an anti-government uprising that began on 28th February 1947.
Is Peace Memorial Day a public holiday in Taiwan?
Yes, Peace Memorial Day is a national public holiday in Taiwan. Government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed to allow for remembrance and participation in commemorative events.
What happened during the 228 Incident?
The 228 Incident began on 28th February 1947, following an altercation between government agents and a street vendor. This incident escalated into widespread anti-government protests across Taiwan, which were then violently suppressed by the Kuomintang (KMT) government, resulting in thousands of deaths.