臺灣外紀

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27218

Title

臺灣外紀

Language

zh

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This text recounts the historical colonization of Taiwan by the Qing Dynasty, detailing the strategic decision to settle the island, the logistical challenges of the voyage, the establishment of military and civil administration, and the cultural integration of settlers. It emphasizes the island's strategic value and the inevitability of its inclusion within the empire.

Summary up to 500 words

This text, titled 'The eBook of 台灣外紀' (The External Records of Taiwan), authored by active 1692 Risheng Jiang, serves as a detailed historical and administrative report on the governance of Taiwan under the Qing Dynasty. The narrative begins with the logistical challenges of supplying troops stationed in Taiwan, noting that local resources are sufficient to support military needs without external subsidies. It describes the arduous journey of ships crossing the ocean, facing severe winter storms and rough seas, which delays travel significantly compared to spring or summer voyages. The text outlines the strategic decision to establish a permanent military presence in Taiwan to counter the threat of the Red Hair pirates (Red Mao), who had previously turned the island into a pirate haven. Following the successful suppression of piracy, the author argues for the retention of the island rather than its abandonment. He details the establishment of a robust defense system, including a total of 1,000 soldiers (500 infantry, 200 naval, 300 coastal) and the appointment of key officials like the Governor and Vice-Governor. The author emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a strong garrison to prevent the island from becoming a haven for pirates again. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the economic and agricultural potential of Taiwan. The author praises the island's fertile land, diverse climate, and abundant resources, including timber, fish, and various crops. He advocates for the cultivation of these resources to support the local population and the mainland, suggesting that Taiwan can become a prosperous region if properly managed. The text also addresses the issue of population growth and the need to regulate immigration to prevent overcrowding and resource depletion. The narrative includes a detailed account of the island's geography, climate, and natural features, highlighting its suitability for agriculture and trade. The author also discusses the importance of maintaining order and stability in the region, emphasizing the role of the military and civil administration in achieving this goal. The text concludes with a reflection on the historical significance of Taiwan, noting its strategic location and potential for future development. Overall, the work serves as a comprehensive guide to the governance and development of Taiwan, providing valuable insights into the historical context and challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty in managing this remote island.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Local file path

data/epubs/pg27218.epub

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2026-08-13 12:27 UTC

Categories

• Biography
• History