 |
Rikichi AndoJapanese general and last Governor General of Taiwan.
Date of Birth: 03.04.1884
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- Rikichi Ando: Japanese General and Last Governor-General of Taiwan
- Military Career
- Second Sino-Japanese War
- Controversial Indochina Invasion
- Return to Service and Taiwan
- Governor-General of Taiwan
- Arrest and Death
Rikichi Ando: Japanese General and Last Governor-General of Taiwan
Early Life and EducationRikichi Ando was born on April 3, 1884, in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. In 1904, he graduated from the Imperial Japanese Army Academy and in 1925, from the Army War College.
Military Career
In 1925-1927, Ando served as a military attaché in British India. In 1930, he became commander of the Imperial Army's 5th Division.
Second Sino-Japanese War
During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Ando commanded the 5th Division and later, the 21st Army. From February 10 to October 5, 1940, he led the South China Front, occupying Guangdong and Guangxi.
Controversial Indochina Invasion
While negotiations were ongoing between the Japanese Empire and Vichy France for Japanese military access to French Indochina, Ando invaded the territory without Tokyo's authorization. This action led to his removal from command.
Return to Service and Taiwan
In the fall of 1941, Ando was recalled to active duty, promoted to full general, and appointed commander of the 10th Area Army on Taiwan, which effectively garrisoned the island.
Governor-General of Taiwan
In 1944, Ando became Governor-General of Taiwan and held this position until the surrender of the Japanese Empire. On October 25, 1945, Ando signed the formal surrender document in Taipei.
Arrest and Death
After the surrender, Ando was arrested by the Chinese and taken to Shanghai. While in prison, he committed suicide by poisoning himself before he could be brought to trial.
