The Nationalist Party, also known as the Kuomintang (KMT), is a political party in Taiwan that was founded in 1912. Initially, it played a significant role in the early 20th-century politics of China, promoting nationalism and modernization. After losing the Chinese Civil War to the Communist Party of China in 1949, the KMT retreated to Taiwan, where it continued to govern. In Taiwan, the Nationalist Party has been influential in shaping the island's political landscape. It has historically advocated for a strong national identity and has been involved in various economic and social reforms. Over the years, the KMT has shifted from authoritarian rule to a more democratic approach, participating in free elections and competing with other parties.