Tomorrow is the 100th anniversary of the Wuchang Uprising, otherwise known as Double Ten. Taiwan celebrates it as their National Day. But it’s more than just that. It marks the beginning of the Republic of China and the end of thousands of years of dynastic rule.

This photo was taken 100 years ago. The Iron blood 18-star flag represents the Wuchang Uprising.

Double 10 is close to my heart because of all the time I spent in China, much of it was in Wuhan. So I think it’s kind of cool the Republic started there.

And as for Taiwan, I’m very impressed with the progress it’s made in recent decades. This is how Taiwan celebrated Double 10 45 years ago (a year after my family first visited the ROC):

Quite scary, huh? But 1966 was a tough year for everyone in Greater China. After all, this is what was going on across the Strait that year.

click to enlarge

Sadly, Double Ten has remained a political day for many. But I think it should be a proud day for all.

Double Ten