The Chinese Revolution & Civil War w/ Ken Hammond (Modern Chinese History Pt. 2)
Apr 5, 2024
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Ken Hammond, an expert in modern Chinese history, joins the host to discuss the Chinese Revolution & Civil War. They explore the roots of the Civil War from 1911 and the heroism of the Long March. The formation of the Communist Party amidst chaos and the significance of the Second United Front against Japanese imperialism are also highlighted. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming episodes in the Modern Chinese History series.
The long march of the red army through harsh conditions built unity with Chinese civilians.
Mao Zedong's theories on agricultural proletariat and worker unity shaped Communist success.
Formation of the Second United Front against Japanese aggression was a pivotal moment in Chinese history.
Deep dives
The Harsh Reality of the Civil War
The red army, facing encirclement campaigns by the nationalist forces, made the daring decision to undertake the long march to reach another base area in northern Shanxi province. With discipline and respect for the people, they trekked through rugged terrain, battling harsh conditions, and challenging encounters with various communities along the way. Through examples like not taking without paying and embracing local customs, the red army worked to build unity with ordinary Chinese civilians they encountered.
The Ideological Transformation at the Zunyi Conference
At the Zunyi conference, Mao Zedong's theories, notably regarding the agricultural proletariat and unity of workers, were accepted by the party leadership. Mao's ideas set the course for the Communists and the eventual success of the revolution. By prioritizing the agricultural proletariat and adapting Marxist theory to the Chinese context, Mao's leadership solidified during this crucial period.
Formation of the Second United Front
As the Japanese threat loomed in the late 1930s, the Chinese Communist Party and the nationalist forces under Chiang Kai-shek formed the second United Front to resist Japanese imperialism. The urgent need for a united stance against the common enemy led to this temporary alliance. This strategic collaboration was a necessity in the face of the growing Japanese aggression and served as a pivotal moment in Chinese history.
Bolshevik Support and Assistance
The Bolsheviks, recognizing the importance of aiding the Chinese Communist Party, provided some assistance, primarily in terms of ideological guidance and strategic insights. While the Bolsheviks favored the success of the Communists, their support was mainly advisory due to their own challenges and priorities in Europe and the Soviet Union at the time. The ideological influence and strategic consultations from the Bolsheviks played a role in shaping the Chinese Communist Party's approach during the conflicts.
Formation of the Second United Front and Japanese Invasion
The Second United Front is formed as Chiang Kai-shek agrees to unite with the communists against the Japanese. However, tensions remain as Chiang Kai-shek focuses more on combating the communists. Subsequently, in July of 1937, the Japanese launch a full-scale invasion coming down from the North and via Shanghai. The War of Japanese Aggression ensues as they occupy significant portions of China, prompting resistance from both the nationalists and communists, with the latter engaging in guerrilla warfare in rural areas.
Effectiveness of the Red Army and Consolidation of the Revolution
The Red Army's success is attributed to being a people's army of volunteer peasant soldiers, contrasting with the conscripted Nationalist forces. The Red Army's respect for the people and dedication to their cause garnered strong support. As the Civil War ends and liberation is achieved in Beijing in January-February 1949, the new political order, including the formation of ministries and the People's Liberation Army, is established. Mao's vision of new democracy leads to the creation of governmental mechanisms and the proclamation of the People's Republic in October 1949.
In this episode of Guerrilla History, we get into part 2 of our 4 part miniseries on modern Chinese history featuring Ken Hammond (and guest host Breht O'Shea of Revolutionary Left Radio) with this absolutely terrific discussion on the Chinese Revolution & Civil War! If you haven't already listened to part 1 of the series, on the Taiping and Boxer Rebellions, be sure to do so because we pick up right where we left off last time. The next two installments will drop every other week (with other episodes in between), and will cover the Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution, and the Reform period, so be sure to subscribe to not miss any of those coming episodes!
Ken Hammond is Professor of East Asian and Global History at New Mexico State University. He has been engaged in radical politics since his involvement in the anti-war movement at Kent State in 1968-70. Ken is also the author of the book China’s Revolution & the Quest for a Socialist Future.
