Explore the complex history and political dynamics of China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong in this 31-minute video lecture from The Great Courses Plus series. Delve into the 1997 return of Hong Kong to Chinese rule, examining the Joint Declaration and Basic Law that shaped its governance. Analyze Taiwan's resistance to reunification with China, tracing the rise of the Democratic Progressive Party and the election of Lee Teng-hui as Taiwan's first native president. Investigate pivotal moments in Taiwan's journey towards independence, including Teng-hui's controversial speech and Chen Shui-bian's election victory. Examine international reactions, including George W. Bush's stance on Taiwanese independence, and explore allegations surrounding Shui-bian's assassination attempt. Conclude with Ma Ying-jeou's efforts to improve relations with China and the evolving dynamics between China and Taiwan up to 2010.