Longstanding controls restrict public politics
Martial law imposed in Taiwan in 1949 restricted assembly, associations, publications and political activity. Political imprisonment, trials and executions damaged families. Economic growth and education changed society, while opposition figures used local elections, magazines and organizations to raise demands. The 1979 Kaohsiung Incident and subsequent trials attracted public attention. During the 1980s, pressure for liberalization increased, creating widening tensions between established forms of rule and an expanding range of social claims.
Martial law is lifted in Taiwan in 1987
The Democratic Progressive Party formed in 1986 amid expanding political activity. Chiang Ching-kuo’s government considered reforms and security legislation, lifting martial law in Taiwan on 15 July 1987. Military and judicial responsibilities changed, and associations gained space, although other restrictions remained. Military administration in Kinmen and Matsu ended later, in 1992. Activists continued demanding further liberalization of publications, parties and public expression after the initial institutional transition.
Participation and memory work expand
Publications, parties and social organizations multiplied, with labour, women’s and environmental movements becoming more visible. Legislative reforms and electoral changes followed, including the first direct presidential election in 1996. Investigations, compensation and archival access gradually addressed political persecution. Families participated in preserving memories. Political opening involved competing social views, while residents developed new practices through elections, media and associations. Earlier losses and subsequent changes became subjects of both public history and family accounts.