When Foreign Rulers Are Remembered Fondly

Hong Kong and Taiwan–a Tale of Two Ex-colonies

Does good government depend on nationality, or on what it delivers to ordinary people?

A curious historical parallel exists between Hong Kong and Taiwan.

In Hong Kong, some older residents remember British colonial rule with considerable affection. In Taiwan, some older people remember Japanese colonial rule with similar nostalgia.

Such sentiments often provoke suspicion. How can a Chinese person appreciate British colonialism? How can a Taiwanese person speak favorably of Japanese rule, especially given Japan’s wartime aggression against China?

Are these people somehow disloyal to their own nation?

But perhaps we are asking the wrong question.

For ordinary people, the most important consideration may not be the nationality or ethnicity of those who govern them. It may be something much simpler:

• Can I make a living?
• Can my children receive an education?
• Is my family safe?
• Is the government honest and effective?
• Can I look forward to a better tomorrow?