Shih Ming-teh

Shih Ming-teh 20141201 (cropped)

Taiwanese politician and democracy activist

Shih Ming-teh (Chinese: 施明德; pinyin: Shī Míngdé

born 15 January 1941) is a prominent Taiwanese politician and democracy activist. He is best known for his role in the Tangwai movement and his leadership in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Shih has been a significant figure in Taiwan's transition from martial law to democracy.

Early Life and Education

Shih Ming-teh was born in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, during the period of Japanese rule. He attended National Taiwan University, where he studied law and became involved in political activism.

Political Activism

Shih's political activism began in the 1960s when he joined the Tangwai movement, a political movement that opposed the Kuomintang (KMT) government. He was arrested multiple times for his involvement in pro-democracy activities.

Kaohsiung Incident

One of the most significant events in Shih's political career was the Kaohsiung Incident in 1979. The incident was a pro-democracy demonstration that led to a violent crackdown by the KMT government. Shih was arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment, but he was released in 1990 as part of Taiwan's political liberalization.

Democratic Progressive Party

After his release, Shih became a key figure in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which was founded in 1986. He served as the party's chairman from 1994 to 1996. Under his leadership, the DPP continued to push for democratic reforms and greater political freedoms in Taiwan.

Later Career

In the 2000s, Shih distanced himself from the DPP and became an independent politician. He has continued to be an outspoken advocate for democracy and human rights in Taiwan.

Personal Life

Shih Ming-teh is married and has children. He remains active in political and social issues in Taiwan.

Legacy

Shih Ming-teh is widely regarded as one of the key figures in Taiwan's transition to democracy. His efforts have had a lasting impact on the country's political landscape.

See Also

• Tangwai movement
• Kaohsiung Incident
• Democratic Progressive Party
• Kuomintang
• Taiwanese democracy movement