A special event was held in Taichung last weekend in honor of the 135th birth anniversary of Lin Hsien-tang, a pioneer of democracy in Taiwan. Many of Lin's manuscripts and diaries were exhibited especially for the occasion, giving the public a valuable glimpse into the mind of the legendary statesman.

Members of the cultural circle gathered together to celebrate the 135th birthday anniversary of the late statesman Lin Hsien-tang.

Legislative speaker Wang Jin-pyng personally attended the event, where he praised Lin's effort in Taiwan's democratization.

History scholar Hsu Shue-ji, who specializes in Lin's manuscripts and diaries, interprets the political pioneer from the perspective of the 228 incident.

In a rare exhibition that showcases Lin's artifacts, it's apparent that Lin had a profound interest in promoting education among women and the common people.

He encouraged women to learn and write poems back in early days.

Lin introduced the concept of the New Culture Movement launched by Liang Chi-chiao.

During the Japanese colonization period he attempted for 14 years to establish a congress in Taiwan.

Although the effort was in vain, the concept of democracy was already deeply rooted.

Having witnessed the three political powers including the Qing dynasty, the Japanese colonization and the KMT regime, Lin was forced to collaborate with the authorities and was once seen as a traitor of Taiwan.

So he left the country and passed away in Japan.

When the country is to celebrate its 100th anniversary, Lin's effort of promoting culture and democratization is especially meaningful for people living in Taiwan.

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