Preventing a Chinese Invasion of Taiwan

Published June 14, 2023

If China were to make a military invasion of Taiwan, it might begin by targeting the Quemoy or Matsu Islands, much like it did in the 1958 Taiwan Strait Crisis. The responses from America and Taiwan then reveal that defense treaties act as an effective deterrent. In addition, establishing clear boundaries of engagement can discourage further aggression.

Discussion Questions:

1. If America were to use defense treaties as a deterrent, would China respond the same way as it did in the past, or differently?
2. Do you think America can prevent an invasion of Taiwan? Why or why not?

Additional Resources:

• Read “Guns of August in the Taiwan Strait, 1958,” by Miles Maochun Yu. Available here.
• Read “Miles Yu on Taiwan: Why Is China So Obsessed with Taiwan?” by Miles Maochan Yu via Taipei Times. Available here.
• Watch “Why America Must Lead the Fight for Freedom Throughout the World,” with Larry Diamond, on PolicyEd. Available here.