The Japanese colonial rule in Taiwan, which began in 1895, was met with significant armed resistance that lasted until the early 20th century. Initial resistance was spearheaded by the Republic of Formosa, Qing officials, and local militias. Armed uprisings persisted even after the fall of Taipei, with Hakka villagers and Chinese nationalists often leading the revolts. Notably, thousands were killed in various massacres and uprisings like the Yunlin Massacre and the initial resistance war of 1895. Major rebellions were more or less subdued by 1902, but incidents like the Beipu uprising in 1907 and the Tapani Incident in 1915 indicated ongoing tension and defiance against Japanese rule. 

Indigenous communities also fiercely resisted Japanese control until the 1930s. The government’s military campaigns in the mountainous areas of Taiwan resulted in the destruction of numerous aboriginal villages, particularly affecting the Atayal and Bunun tribes. The last significant aboriginal uprising was the Musha (Wushe) Uprising in 1930, led by the Seediq people. This rebellion resulted in hundreds of casualties and concluded with the suicide of Seediq leaders.

The violent opposition to Japanese rule led to a change in colonial policy, including a more conciliatory stance towards the indigenous populations after the Musha Incident. Nonetheless, the legacy of resistance has had a profound impact on Taiwan's history and collective memory, emphasizing the complex and often brutal relationship between the colonizers and the colonized. The events of this period are deeply ingrained in Taiwan’s social and political fabric, continuing to influence debates and perspectives on national identity and historical trauma.