In 1947, tensions in Taiwan reached a boiling point following decades of dissatisfaction with the ruling Nationalist government, known as the Kuomintang (KMT). The immediate catalyst for the uprising was an incident involving the enforcement of a tobacco monopoly which led to the police shooting a local vendor. This event sparked protests and demonstrations as Taiwan's populace rallied against what they perceived as oppressive taxation and the KMT's authoritarian rule. The protests rapidly grew in size from peaceful gatherings to calls for political reform and autonomy. On February 28, after days of escalating unrest, the government declared martial law and responded with a violent military crackdown.The government's harsh measures involved deploying troops and conducting widespread arrests, leading to mass casualties. Historical estimates suggest that between 18,000 and 28,000 civilians lost their lives during this tumultuous period. In cities and towns across Taiwan, families endured the horrors of violence, with many residents forced into hiding. The aftermath not only left a profound impact on the immediate victims and their families but also instilled a deep-seated fear among the population that would influence Taiwan's political landscape for decades.As Taiwanese society processed the events of February 28, it became a symbol of resistance against oppression and a rallying point for future movements advocating for democracy and human rights in Taiwan. The incident catalyzed the eventual rise of a distinct Taiwanese identity, impacting both cultural and political developments in the years to follow. Over time, the February 28 incident has become a crucial part of Taiwan's modern history, commemorated by the establishment of February 28 as a national holiday in Taiwan, known as Peace Memorial Day, to honor the victims and promote reflection on government accountability.