The most common term used to refer to people from Taiwan is “Taiwanese.” It is a broad and inclusive term that encompasses individuals who are citizens of Taiwan or have a strong connection to the island. The majority of the population in Taiwan identifies as Taiwanese, regardless of their ethnic background. Whether they are of Han Chinese, indigenous, or other ethnic origins, people in Taiwan generally identify themselves as Taiwanese.
What is Taiwanese?
The term “Taiwanese” is often used in both the cultural and political contexts. Culturally, it refers to the shared customs, traditions, and values of the people living on the island. This cultural identity has evolved over centuries and has been shaped by the interactions of various ethnic groups, including Han Chinese, Hoklo (also known as Minnan), Hakka, indigenous groups such as the Amis, Atayal, and many others.
Politically, the term “Taiwanese” represents the people’s aspiration for self-determination and their distinctiveness from China. The political status of Taiwan has been a subject of debate for decades, with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) claiming sovereignty over the island. However, Taiwan operates as a separate entity with its own government, military, and democratic system. As a result, many Taiwanese people strongly identify themselves as separate from mainland China, leading to a unique Taiwanese national identity.
It is important to note that some individuals in Taiwan may identify as both Taiwanese and Chinese, emphasizing their cultural heritage and ancestral ties to China. This is particularly true for those who trace their ancestry back to China. However, the political landscape and historical developments have led to a distinct Taiwanese identity that is separate from Chinese identity for many.
In addition to the term “Taiwanese,” it is also common to use more specific descriptors based on the ethnic background of individuals in Taiwan. For example, individuals who are of Hakka descent may identify themselves as Hakka Taiwanese, while those of indigenous origin may refer to themselves as Indigenous Taiwanese. These descriptors acknowledge the rich diversity within the Taiwanese population and highlight the unique contributions and experiences of different ethnic groups.
What About Kinmen and Matsu?
Finally, it is worth noting that the residents of Kinmen and Matsu, two territories located off the coast of China, have a unique perspective on their identity. While they are citizens of the Republic of China (Taiwan’s official government), many of them maintain a strong connection to their Chinese heritage and do not necessarily identify themselves solely as Taiwanese. Due to their geographical proximity to mainland China, the historical and cultural ties between these territories and China have remained significant. As a result, some residents of Kinmen and Matsu maintain a stronger sense of Chinese identity and see themselves as Chinese rather than exclusively Taiwanese. This perspective is influenced by factors such as their shared language, customs, and historical connections to China.
“Taiwanese” refers to people from Taiwan, encompassing their shared cultural and political identity. While some may identify as both Taiwanese and Chinese, the unique political landscape has shaped a distinct Taiwanese national identity. Residents of Kinmen and Matsu may maintain a stronger Chinese identity due to their historical ties to mainland China.
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