Ming dynasty vase

 
 

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Abstract 
 

    The life of Ming loyalist Koxinga has become a thing of myth and legend.  Whilethe facts of his life may be debated, there is no question about the lasting impact he had on the island nation of Taiwan.  In 1661 Koxinga expelled the Dutch from Taiwan.  He planned to use the island as a base of operations for his campaign against the Manchurian leaders of China, the Qing Dynasty.  Koxinga was unsuccessful in his efforts against the Qing, but found success on the island of Taiwan.  During his short time there he established a government and ended Western control.  Centuries after his death, Koxinga lives on as a Taiwanese folk legend, commemorated in shrines and temples.  He is viewed by the Taiwanese as the original ancestor of their nation.

Historical Background

    There are few mentions of Taiwan in Chinese history before an explorer of the Ming dynasty announced his