Why Does Taiwan Still Own These Islands On China's Coast?
Go to https://buyraycon.com/generalknowledgeopen to get 20% OFF site-wide! Why does Taiwan control islands right off the coast of mainland China? The Kinmen (Quemoy) and Matsu islands are just a few kilometers away from the Chinese city of Xiamen, yet they’re not part of the People’s Republic of China. Instead, they remain under Taiwan (the Republic of China). In this video, we’ll dive into the strange history and strategic importance of these islands. From their settlement during the Tang Dynasty, to Koxinga’s campaigns against the Dutch, to the decisive Battle of Guningtou in 1949, and the Cold War Taiwan Strait Crises that nearly triggered U.S. nuclear strikes. We’ll also explore what life is like there today: their unique flag, economy built on Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor, military heritage tourism, and why they remain at the heart of the Taiwan-China standoff. Become a member on Patreon & get your name in the credits + exclusive content! https://www.patreon.com/generalknowledge TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 What are these islands? 01:53 Where is Kinmen? 03:09 The island's population and flag 03:46 Taiwanese military defenses 04:30 The local economy 05:07 Raycon 07:04 How it became part of China 07:31 Etymology (name origin) 07:57 Ming & Qing Conquests 09:24 Annexation by the Japanese Empire 10:35 Chinese Civil War & retreat into Taiwan 11:05 1949 Battle of Guningtou