Peace Memorial Day – 28th February 2023 | History | Download Images, Pictures, Wishes, Slogans, Greetings, and Quotes

Peace Memorial Day is a public holiday in the Republic of China (Taiwan) to honor the victims of the Incident 228. On this day, the national flag of Taiwan is fluttered at half-mast as a symbol of respect for the deceased.

Incident 228, also known as Massacre 228, Massacre 2/28 or simply 2/28, is considered one of the most important events in Taiwan's modern history. It was the beginning of the so-called White Terror, the 38-year period of martial law.

After World War II, temporary administrative control of Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China administered by the Kuomintang. Many Taiwanese were dissatisfied with the new nationalist government.

On February 27, 1947, a dispute between a cigarette dealer and an officer in Taipei sparked civil unrest. On February 28, a large-scale uprising began. It was violently suppressed by the military, and thousands of people were killed.

For a long time, the massacre of 228 was officially taboo. In 1995, President Lee Teng-hui became the first Taiwanese head of state to address him publicly. February 28 has been declared an official day of remembrance. On this day, the President rings a memorial bell in memory of the victims and bows to their families.

The White Terror Period

This unfortunate death led to a series of uprisings, with demonstrations and strikes spreading throughout Taiwan. The people first gathered in Zhongshan Park and then took over the Taipei Radio Station to broadcast the tragedy to the masses. On the other hand, the government showed no commitment or mercy and tried to suppress the rebellion by force. For the next 38 years, Taiwan was under martial law in a period now known as the "White Terror" period. All public gatherings are banned and anyone who breaks the rules will be arrested immediately. The death toll during Incident 228 was estimated to be between 10,000 and 30,000, with more and more people dying or disappearing daily during the White Terror.

How Peace Memorial Day is Celebrated

Each year, the President holds a special ceremony to honor those affected by the tragedy of 228 and the White Terror. After a commemorative speech, the chief bowed to the families of those affected, rang a ceremonial bell, and handed each family a certificate stating that each victim was not guilty of any crime.

How Peace Memorial Day is Inspired

Several artists have addressed the 228 events since the taboo was lifted. Many books and films have drawn inspiration from it, but not deepened it.

Ho Hsiao Hsien's City of Grief won the 1989 Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Formosa Betrayal, a political thriller made in 2009, that references the massacre of 228.

Peace Memorial Day 2023