Keelung

Historical Origins and Foundation

The history of the area where Keelung is located today dates back to ancient times. Originally, these lands were inhabited by the indigenous Ketagalan tribe. The city's first name, "Jilong" (which in old Chinese transcription meant "Chicken Cage" due to the shape of a mountain in the harbor), was derived from their self-designation; it was only in 1875 that it was officially replaced by more auspicious characters meaning "Rich Base."

Foundation and First Mentions

• Indigenous Population: Long before appearing on the maps of European cartographers, the bay served as a home and natural shelter for the Ketagalan people. Their settlements became the core around which the city later grew.
• European Outpost: The actual beginning of the city's history in the modern sense is considered to be 1626, when a Spanish expedition entered the harbor and founded Fort San Salvador. This event marked the emergence of the first permanent trading and military settlement connecting the island to global maritime routes.
• Chinese Colonization: Mass settlement of the region by Han Chinese began in the 18th century. Immigrants from Fujian Province established fishing villages and trading shops here, gradually shaping the urban way of life.

Key Factors of Development

The city's development was driven by a unique combination of natural and geopolitical conditions that set it apart from other settlements in Taiwan:

• Deepwater Harbor: Unlike the shallow ports of the west coast, which suffered from silting, Keelung's bay allowed for large seagoing vessels. This geographical advantage became the foundation for the region's entire future economy.
• Strategic Location: Situated at the northernmost point of the island, the city served as a natural "gateway" for ships coming from China and Japan. Control over this point meant control over the entire northern part of the island.
• Resource Base: The discovery of coal and gold deposits in the vicinity turned the trading port into an important raw material hub, accelerating the construction of infrastructure and roads.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In its early period, Keelung developed as a classic frontier settlement. Its economy relied on fishing and coastal trade with the mainland. The cultural environment was characterized by a high degree of interaction between local tribes and Chinese immigrants. The harsh climate (the city is known for its frequent rains) and orientation toward the sea tempered the character of the local residents, creating a distinct community whose life depended entirely on the rhythm of the tides and the arrival of trading fleets.

Key Dates in the History of Keelung

The history of Keelung is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting the strategic importance of its port. From early European settlements to its transformation into a modern logistics center, the city has come a long way, with different eras and cultures leaving their mark.

European Presence and the Qing Era

• 1626: The Spanish found Fort San Salvador on Heping Island (in Keelung Harbor), establishing the first European settlement in the region.
• 1642: The Dutch capture the Spanish fortifications and establish control over Taiwan's northern coast.
• 1668: The Dutch finally leave Keelung, as trade with mainland China becomes unprofitable following its conquest by the Manchus.
• 1863: As part of the policy of opening China to foreign trade, the port of Keelung officially opens to ships from foreign nations.
• 1875: Coal mining begins at the Qingguojing mines, the first in Taiwan, giving an impetus to the region's industrial development.
• 1884–1885: During the Franco-Chinese War, the French fleet attacks and temporarily occupies Keelung in an attempt to seize control of the coal mines.

Japanese Rule Period

• 1895: After China's defeat in the Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan passes to Japanese rule, and Keelung becomes an important administrative and commercial center.
• 1906: The Japanese administration builds the lighthouse on Pengjia Islet, which remains an important navigational aid today.
• 1924: Keelung officially receives city status as part of Taihoku (Taipei) Prefecture.

Modern History

• 1945: After the end of World War II, Taiwan, including Keelung, comes under the control of the Republic of China.
• 1949: The sinking of the steamer "Taiping" occurs off the coast of Keelung, becoming one of the largest maritime disasters of the time.
• 1984: The Keelung Cultural Center opens, becoming an important venue for exhibitions and cultural events.

Key Development Milestones

The evolution of Keelung is inextricably linked to the sea and trade. The city's economic and urban planning changes have always been dictated by its unique geographical position as the "northern gateway" of the island. Here are the key stages that defined the modern look and status of this port:

• 1887–1891: The Era of Railway Progress.
  The completion of the first railway line in Taiwan, connecting the port with Taipei, was a technological breakthrough. The construction of the Liu Mingchuan Tunnel allowed for the rapid transport of goods and passengers, turning the city into a leading transport hub in the region as early as the late 19th century.
• 1899–1935: Large-scale Harbor Modernization.
  During this period, a massive port reconstruction program was implemented, including five stages of dredging and the construction of permanent piers. It was then that the main coastline was formed and a regular street grid was introduced, which formed the basis of the current plan for the central districts.
• 1980s: A Global Center for Container Shipping.
  The city reached the peak of its industrial power, becoming one of the seven largest container ports in the world. This economic boom led to active high-rise development and a significant influx of people employed in international logistics, finally securing the port's status as a strategic hub for Asia.
• 2000s – Present: Revitalization and Cruise Tourism.
  Shifts in the global economy prompted the city to transform. Old industrial zones and closed docks began to be redeveloped into public spaces accessible to citizens. The construction of a new modern terminal for ocean liners marked the port's transformation into a popular tourist gateway for travelers from all over the world.

The architectural landscape of Keelung is a visual chronicle of its rich history. As a strategic port, the city absorbed features from various cultures, which is reflected in its buildings—from military forts to modern structures. Every historical period has left its unique mark on the urban landscape.

Early European Fortifications

The first significant architectural structures in Keelung were built by Europeans in the 17th century and were strictly military in nature. In 1626, the Spanish built Fort San Salvador on Heping Island, laying the foundations for European fortification construction in the region. Later, after being captured by the Dutch, these fortifications were rebuilt. Although almost nothing remains of the original structures, their legacy can be traced in the layout of later defensive sites, such as the Uhrshawan Battery.

Qing Dynasty and Japanese Rule

In the 19th century, during the Qing Dynasty, architecture focused on the construction of traditional temples and defensive works. However, fundamental changes in urban planning occurred during the period of Japanese rule (1895–1945). The Japanese administration carried out large-scale modernization: an orderly street grid was created, and architectural styles combining Western and Japanese elements began to dominate.

• A Blend of Styles: During this period, buildings in the style of European historicism and early modernism appeared. Facades were often decorated with elements characteristic of Baroque or Renaissance styles but using local building materials.
• Infrastructure Projects: The Japanese built many administrative buildings, modernized the port, and erected iconic structures such as the Pengjia Islet Lighthouse (1906), which features a unique metal construction and is still in use today.

Post-War and Modern Architecture

After World War II, the city, heavily damaged by bombing, was rebuilt with an emphasis on functionality. Utilitarian reinforced concrete buildings predominated during this period. Since the end of the 20th century, Keelung has entered an era of postmodernism and modern architectural revival. City authorities began implementing revitalization projects aimed at creating a comfortable urban environment and attracting tourists.

• Cultural Centers: A striking example of modern architecture is the Keelung Cultural Center (1984), which has become an important public and exhibition space.
• Urban Renewal: Today's Keelung is a city where historic buildings stand alongside modern transport interchanges and new public spaces, such as Maritime Plaza. This combination of old and new forms the unique and dynamic image of one of Taiwan's main ports.

Notable Figures Associated with Keelung

The history and culture of Keelung have been shaped by many talented and influential people. From military leaders and politicians to figures in art and science, here are some of the key personalities who have left their mark on the life of the city and beyond.

• Liu Mingchuan
  Role: Military and political figure of the Qing Dynasty.
  Significance: Led the defense of Taiwan during the Franco-Chinese War (1884–1885). His successful actions in defending Keelung against the French invasion went down in history as one of the most important chapters of the city's military past. He also initiated Taiwan's first modernization program.
• Ni Chiang-huai
  Role: Watercolor artist.
  Significance: One of the pioneers of watercolor painting in Taiwan. He spent a significant part of his life in Keelung, capturing industrial landscapes, coal mines, and the city's port life in his works, thereby preserving its unique appearance for future generations.
• Feng-hsiung Hsu
  Role: Computer scientist.
  Significance: A native of Keelung, he was the lead architect of the IBM Deep Blue chess supercomputer, which in 1997 achieved a historic victory over world chess champion Garry Kasparov. This breakthrough was a major milestone in the development of artificial intelligence.
• Jiang Yi-huah
  Role: Politician and academic.
  Significance: A native of Keelung, he served as the Premier of the Republic of China (Taiwan) from 2013 to 2014. His political career at the highest level of government has made him one of the most well-known modern political figures associated with the city.
• Show Lo
  Role: Singer, actor, and television host.
  Significance: Born and raised in Keelung. He is one of the brightest stars on the Asian pop scene, achieving immense popularity in the Mandopop world. His success has brought fame to his hometown in modern popular culture.