The Port of Keelung (A Taiwan Adventure)

The Port of Keelung (基隆港)

Keelung is a major port city situated in the northeastern part of Taiwan.  

Nicknamed the Rainy Port for its frequent rain with a yearly rainfall averaging upwards of 3.7 meters.  It has long been noted as one of the wettest and gloomiest cities in the world.  The city is Taiwan's second largest seaport after Kaohsiung, located in the south.

A Spanish expedition in the early 17th century was its first contact with the West.

Given the strategic and commercial value of Taiwan, there were British suggestions in 1840 and 1841 to seize the island.

In 1863, the Qing Empire opened up Keelung as a trading port.
The city then enjoyed rapid development due to the abundant commodities such as gold and coal.

Following the defeat of the Japanese in the Second World War, the Japanese army retreated from Taiwan through the Port of Keelung.  

With the rapid economic growth in Taiwan during the 1960s-70s, the Port of Keelung became one of the busiest ports in the world.  In 1984, Port of Keelung was the 7th busiest cargo port in the world.

Music credits to "The Invisible Men", circa 2004, (Lyall, Jason, and Scott) and also "SOMA" circa 2010, (Mark, Brian, Joel,  and Scott).

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