Nine million Taishanese people live across the globe. That’s a staggering number. But their story begins here in Taishan. This county-level city in Guangdong province is their ancestral home. It’s a place steeped in history. A place that sent forth waves of emigrants. They left seeking fortune and opportunity.
Taishan’s history stretches back centuries. During the Ming dynasty it was known as Xinning County. It wasn’t always called Taishan. The name changed in 1914. The new Republican government wanted to avoid confusion with other places named Xinning.
Life in 19th century Xinning was challenging. Natural disasters and political turmoil pushed many people to leave. The revocation of the Sea Ban regulations only exacerbated the situation. It led to conflict between returning locals and northern settlers. This conflict escalated into war in the 1850s and 60s.
The Treaty of Nanking in 1842 opened China to more foreign trade. This coincided with the California Gold Rush. It made emigration to the United States an attractive option. Many Taishanese also worked as contract laborers abroad. They worked in places like Hawaii Peru and Cuba. A significant number helped build the Central Pacific Railroad. They constituted 80% of the workforce. They laid tracks across mountains and deserts in the American West.
By 1870 there were 63000 Chinese in the US. Almost all were in California. Taishan’s connection to the United States is undeniable. It’s a powerful legacy. A testament to the resilience and determination of its people.
The Sun Ning Railway a remarkable achievement connected Sun Ning with its hinterland in 1908. It reached Jiangmen in 1913. It was one of only three railways financed built owned and operated by the Chinese before 1949. This railway was later destroyed during World War II to prevent the Japanese from using it. Japanese soldiers occupied Taicheng in March 1941. They killed almost 280 people. A quarter of the famous Flying Tigers a joint American and Chinese air squadron fought against the Japanese. These brave airmen hailed from Taishan.
Taishan’s journey is one of resilience. It’s a story of emigration and achievement. It’s a story woven into the fabric of the city itself. From its humble beginnings to its present-day status as a thriving county-level city. It stands as a testament to the spirit of Taishan. It’s a story worth remembering and sharing.