Chapter 11: World War II and its Aftermath, 11.1 China

1. The Long March: A Turning Point for the Communists

⭐A Grueling Journey: In 1934, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), led by Mao Zedong, was cornered by the Nationalist forces (Kuomintang or KMT) under Chiang Kai-shek. Faced with annihilation, they embarked on the Long March, a grueling 6,000-mile trek through treacherous mountain ranges and hostile territory.
⭐Defying the Odds: The Long March was a testament to the Communists' resilience. They endured hunger, disease, and constant attack, losing thousands along the way. Yet, they persevered, making it to the remote province of Shaanxi in 1936.
⭐Mao's Leadership Emerges: The Long March saw Mao solidify his leadership within the CCP. He proved his strategic brilliance, his ability to inspire and motivate his troops, and his commitment to the communist cause. The experience forged a sense of unity and purpose among the surviving Communists.
⭐The Long March's Lasting Impact: The Long March served as a key turning point for the CCP. It showed the world their determination and resilience, attracting new recruits and generating sympathy for their cause. It also established Mao as the undisputed leader, preparing the party for the eventual victory in the Chinese Civil War.

2. The Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945): A Shared Struggle

⭐A New Enemy: While the CCP and KMT were locked in a bitter civil war, a new threat emerged: Imperial Japan. In 1937, Japan invaded China, marking the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War.
⭐United Front Against Japan: Faced with a common enemy, the CCP and KMT agreed to a temporary truce, forming a united front to fight against Japanese aggression. This alliance was crucial in halting the Japanese advance and allowing both sides to regroup.
⭐Guerrilla Warfare and Resistance: The CCP, under Mao Zedong, adopted a strategy of guerrilla warfare, harassing the Japanese forces and building support among the rural population. This tactic proved effective in hindering the Japanese war effort and demonstrating the CCP's strength.
⭐The War's Impact on China: The Second Sino-Japanese War was devastating for China. Millions died, infrastructure was destroyed, and the country's economy was crippled. However, the war also fostered a sense of national unity and strengthened the CCP's position within China.

3. The End of the War and the Growing Divide:

⭐The Defeat of Japan: In 1945, Japan surrendered to the Allied forces, ending the war. The CCP and KMT emerged from the conflict with their strength and influence greatly enhanced.
⭐Renewed Civil War: The truce between the two parties quickly dissolved, and the Chinese Civil War resumed with renewed intensity. Both sides sought to establish control over the country, leading to a bitter and bloody conflict.
⭐The CCP's Growing Power: The CCP, aided by popular support among the rural population and its guerrilla warfare experience, gained significant ground, pushing the KMT forces back.
⭐The Seeds of Communist Victory: By the end of the war, the CCP was in a much stronger position than the KMT. They had gained valuable experience in fighting, built a strong support base, and established a powerful military force. These factors would ultimately contribute to their victory in the Chinese Civil War in 1949.