The majority of the articles released in the magazine were first-hand materials because many were accounts of personal experiences, chang said.
"These publications are very helpful to historians focusing on modern Chinese history," he said. "But for the existence of this magazine, I believe many of the precious historical accounts would have disappeared for good."
But historians also admit that the publication had its dark days -- Liu started the journal recording events and dissecting the actions of important figures, back during the time when Taiwan was still under martial law.
Chen San-ching (陳三井), a research fellow at the Institute of Modern History at Academic Sinica, gave a vivid example.
"When the magazine touched upon sensitive political issues, such as how many women Sun Yat-sen (孫中山), founder of the Republic of China, had in his life, the authorities were concerned, fingering Liu as a tool of the communists," Chen said.
But the magazine stands out as a pinnacle of achievement among those of its kind in Taiwan and China, Chen said. "In terms of content, quality and accuracy, the magazine is an unprecedented accomplishment."
On March 30, a panel discussion on the contribution of the magazine to the study of modern Chinese history will be held at the mayor's former residence, now a venue for cultural events.
According to the organizers of the event, a one-month exhibition on Liu's life will be held concurrently at the same venue.
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