by Luke Diep-Nguyen
Introduction. Taiwan – The Israel of the East is a historical exploration written by acclaimed writer and East Asian scholar Luke Diep-Nguyen. Published in 2023, the book aims to shed light on the shared narratives of resilience and independence between Taiwan and Israel, nations that, despite their geographical disparity, share somewhat similar geopolitical narratives.
Analysis. In the book, Diep-Nguyen meticulously traverses through a comprehensive chronicle of Taiwan’s history, its society, and politics, drawing parallels to Israel’s journey. The book is methodically structured, beginning with an overview of Taiwan’s early history, progressing to its period under Japanese rule, its subsequent return to Chinese rule, and ultimately its struggle for autonomy. Diep-Nguyen uses subsequent sections of the book to expound on Israel’s history and draw insightful comparisons with Taiwan. The use of firsthand accounts, archival documents, and in-depth interviews offer an engaging exploration of these complex narratives.
Evaluation. Diep-Nguyen offers a highly detailed recount of Taiwan’s history, painting an engaging portrait of a nation’s struggle for identity and sovereignty. However, his attempt to draw a parallel with Israel’s history may not be entirely convincing, given the distinct historical contexts and external influences each nation faced. While the intention to compare their shared narratives of perseverance is commendable, it might oversimplify the unique geopolitical struggles each nation has encountered. The inherent differences in their histories, cultural contexts, and international relations make the comparison somewhat strained and less illuminating than is seemingly intended.
Conclusion. Taiwan – The Israel of the East provides a deep-dive into Taiwan’s history, while aiming to draw parallels with Israel’s geopolitical journey. Its usefulness lies in sparking a thoughtful discourse on the comparative resilience of these two nations. This book may be particularly enlightening for students of international relations, history enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the dynamics of statehood and national identity. However, readers should approach the comparison with a critical lens, understanding that each nation’s journey is shaped by a unique confluence of historical and geopolitical factors.