George Kerr and Formosa Betrayed (with Prof. Jonathan Benda) – S5-E52 | The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files

The podcast explores the life and work of George Kerr, particularly his influential book "Formosa Betrayed," which detailed the 228 Incident (or March Massacres) in Taiwan. Kerr's early life, marked by missionary exposure and studies in Japan, shaped his later advocacy for Taiwanese identity. As vice consul in Taipei, he witnessed the transition of power to the Nationalists and the subsequent corruption and violence. The discussion covers the events of the 228 Incident, the suppression of Taiwanese elites, and Kerr's disillusionment with both the Nationalists and American foreign policy. Despite facing career setbacks due to McCarthyism and accusations related to his sexuality, Kerr continued to champion the distinct histories and identities of both Taiwan and Okinawa.

Outlines

Part 1: Introduction, Historical Context

Part 2: Kerr’s Early Life, Academic Journey

Part 3: Political Turmoil, "Formosa Betrayed"

Part 4: Okinawa, Personal Struggles, Legacy

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George Kerr and Formosa Betrayed (with Prof. Jonathan Benda) – S5-E52

The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files

Part 1: Introduction, Historical Context

Introducing George Kerr and the Enduring Significance of "Formosa Betrayed"

The 228 Incident: Origins, Violence, and Impact on Taiwanese Leadership

Chiang Kai-shek's Mediocrity and the Unhappy Return of Taiwan to China

Part 2: Kerr’s Early Life, Academic Journey

From China to Taiwan: Kerr's Academic Journey and Early Experiences

Kerr's Departure from Taiwan, Wartime Service, and Return with Chen Yi

Part 3: Political Turmoil, "Formosa Betrayed"

Initial Impressions of Nationalists in Taiwan and the Desire for American Governance

Kerr's Role as Vice Consul and the Origins of "Formosa Betrayed"

Delayed Publication of "Formosa Betrayed" and McCarthyism's Impact

Part 4: Okinawa, Personal Struggles, Legacy

Kerr's Work on Okinawa and the Lavender Scare

Kerr's Later Life, Legacy, and Fond Remembrance in Taiwan

George Kerr and Formosa Betrayed (with Prof. Jonathan Benda) – S5-E52

The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files

Part 1: Introduction, Historical Context

00:03Introducing George Kerr and the Enduring Significance of "Formosa Betrayed"

Introducing George Kerr and the Enduring Significance of "Formosa Betrayed"

03:15The 228 Incident: Origins, Violence, and Impact on Taiwanese Leadership

The 228 Incident: Origins, Violence, and Impact on Taiwanese Leadership

09:19Chiang Kai-shek's Mediocrity and the Unhappy Return of Taiwan to China

Chiang Kai-shek's Mediocrity and the Unhappy Return of Taiwan to China

Part 2: Kerr’s Early Life, Academic Journey

13:15From China to Taiwan: Kerr's Academic Journey and Early Experiences

From China to Taiwan: Kerr's Academic Journey and Early Experiences

17:31Kerr's Departure from Taiwan, Wartime Service, and Return with Chen Yi

Kerr's Departure from Taiwan, Wartime Service, and Return with Chen Yi

Part 3: Political Turmoil, "Formosa Betrayed"

23:58Initial Impressions of Nationalists in Taiwan and the Desire for American Governance

Initial Impressions of Nationalists in Taiwan and the Desire for American Governance

30:32Kerr's Role as Vice Consul and the Origins of "Formosa Betrayed"

Kerr's Role as Vice Consul and the Origins of "Formosa Betrayed"

35:55Delayed Publication of "Formosa Betrayed" and McCarthyism's Impact

Delayed Publication of "Formosa Betrayed" and McCarthyism's Impact

Part 4: Okinawa, Personal Struggles, Legacy

41:48Kerr's Work on Okinawa and the Lavender Scare

Kerr's Work on Okinawa and the Lavender Scare

49:29Kerr's Later Life, Legacy, and Fond Remembrance in Taiwan

Kerr's Later Life, Legacy, and Fond Remembrance in Taiwan