Republic of China (ROC)

The Republic of China (ROC) is a democratic country that was established in 1912 after overthrowing the Qing Dynasty. It originally governed mainland China but retreated to Taiwan in 1949 following a civil war with the Communist Party. Today, the ROC governs Taiwan and some surrounding islands, functioning as a separate political entity with its own government, economy, and military. The term "Republic of China" refers to this government, which sees itself as the legitimate government of all China, though internationally, Taiwan's status is complex due to diplomatic and political differences with the People's Republic of China.