"An East Gate book."

Includes bibliographical references (p. 243-256) and index.

Taiwan's seventeenth-century rulers: the Dutch, the Spaniards, and Koxinga -- Trading networks: Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and coastal China -- British footprints on Taiwan: consulates, trading firms, and Presbyterian churches -- A strategic vantage point: the French campaign in Taiwan -- Late to the scene: the United States arrives in Taiwan -- The roots of the Japanese empire: the colonization of Taiwan -- Taiwan during World War II: from colony to haven -- Postwar Taiwan: the growing American presence and influence.

"For centuries the island of Taiwan, 100 miles off the Asian mainland, has been a cross-roads for traders and settlers, pirates and military schemers from around the world. Unlike China, with its long tradition of keeping foreigners out, Taiwan has a long history of interaction, both hostile and friendly, with other seafaring nations near and far. 'Maritime Taiwan' captures the full drama and details of this remarkable history. [It] also discusses the significant impact of American military, economic, educational, and technological aid on Taiwan's development, and addresses the island's continued importance in maintaining the U.S. hegemony in East Asia."