During the period of martial rule in Taiwan, many political dissidents were imprisoned on Green Island. The prison has since come to symbolize the "White Terror" of political suppression from those darker years. In 2001, the government opened a Human Rights Memorial Park here in memory of those who made sacrifices for Taiwan's freedom, democracy and human rights, and as a reminder of the need to cherish and safeguard human rights.
The 25-hectare park includes a Human Rights Monument, which is now a landmark of Green Island, as well as an old prison building—Oasis Village, which has been converted into an exhibition hall showing historical films and displays.