The Hijacked War

Main Themes and Topics

The Hijacked War by David Cheng Chang explores the complex and little-known narrative of Chinese prisoners of war during the Korean War and their significant impact on international relations. The book focuses on the lengthy and contentious negotiations over their repatriation, a key issue during the Korean War armistice talks. Chang delves into the intricate politics surrounding these POWs, many of whom refused repatriation to Communist China, opting instead for Nationalist Taiwan. This decision played a critical role in disrupting diplomatic efforts between major Cold War powers: the United States, the Soviet Union, and China.

The book also investigates the U.S. policy of voluntary repatriation and the covert reindoctrination program aimed at Chinese prisoners, shedding light on how these policies backfired and led to resistance among prisoners. Through meticulous research, Chang uncovers how these policies inadvertently fueled anti-Communist sentiments among the prisoners and affected their post-war trajectories.

Writing Style and Tone

David Cheng Chang employs a scholarly yet engaging writing style in The Hijacked War. His narrative is well-researched, drawing from a wealth of declassified archival materials from China, Taiwan, and the United States, as well as interviews with surviving Chinese and North Korean POWs. This extensive research base lends a high degree of credibility and depth to the book. Chang's tone is analytical and precise, offering a balanced view that weaves individual stories of prisoners with broader geopolitical analyses. His vivid accounts transport readers into the POW camps, providing a realistic depiction of the conditions and the choices prisoners faced.

Criticism

While The Hijacked War has been praised for its thorough research and insightful analysis, some critics have noted the dense academic style may be challenging for general readers. The book's focus on specific policies and detailed accounts of diplomatic interactions might not appeal to those looking for a more narrative-driven history. Nonetheless, the depth and rigor of Chang's investigation are widely acknowledged as a significant contribution to understanding this aspect of the Korean War.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

The Hijacked War recounts the experiences of over 14,000 Chinese prisoners of war during the Korean War and their influence on the armistice negotiations. Instead of returning to Communist China, many prisoners sought to go to Nationalist Taiwan, thereby complicating international talks and affecting Cold War diplomacy. David Cheng Chang provides a detailed exploration of the U.S. policies on repatriation and reindoctrination, highlighting how these influenced prisoners' decisions. Through new archival materials and personal accounts, Chang presents a detailed picture of how these POWs became pivotal players in a larger geopolitical struggle.