Born under the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, coming of age under the Kuomingtang (KMT) suppression, Li-Pei Wu fled the KMT's atrocities against the Taiwanese and his fellow democracy believers and found a new life in America. But his belief in an independent Taiwan never waned. This is the incredible life story of a skinny boy from Taiwan's countryside who became an American business leader and democracy advocate for Taiwan. Through hard work and perseverance, Wu became nationally recognized as a leader in the banking industry starting in Alaska and then Southern California. His business acumen led him to become a bank turnaround expert and CEO. Wu received many accolades from his financial peers and was the subject of numerous cover stories in industry journals. In addition, he formed multiple non-profit, non-partisan public interest groups that sought to promote Taiwanese identity and foster an environment of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He worked tirelessly to promote understanding and friendship between Taiwan and the United States. In 2004, Wu gave up his US citizenship to join the Taiwan government as a senior advisor for two of Taiwan's presidents. Today, he resides in Taiwan and remains a respected voice advocating for Taiwan independence. This is an enhanced translation based on his well-received memoir published in Taiwan.