Accidental State

In "Accidental State," author Hsiao-Ting Lin offers a fresh perspective on the historical events that led to the establishment of Taiwan as a rival state following the defeat of Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalists by Mao Zedong. Published by Harvard University Press in 2016, this compelling hardback spans 352 pages and delves into the complexities of international diplomacy surrounding the Two Chinas dilemma that continues to influence global politics today. Lin challenges the conventional narrative, revealing how the creation of this not fully sovereign state was marked by unexpected developments and serendipitous occurrences. This insightful exploration of China's foreign relations and Taiwan's political landscape is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of 20th-century history and the ongoing implications for U.S.-China relations.