Intelligence Squared

China's Good War, with Rana Mitter and Gideon Rachman

Sep 22, 2020

Rana Mitter, a modern Chinese history expert and author of *China's Good War*, engages in a deep dive into China's evolving narrative of World War II. He discusses how reassessing this conflict fuels nationalism and reflects the country's rising global confidence. Mitter highlights the role of historical memories in shaping contemporary Chinese identity, the impact of WWII on current foreign policy, and the cultural residues that continue to resonate in modern China, challenging the simplistic views often held in the West.

53:12

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Episode guests

Rana Mitter

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

China's WWII Narrative and National Identity

14min

China's Perspective on World War II

10min

The Lasting Impact of the Second World War on Chinese Culture

3min

Revisiting History: World War II Narratives in China

7min

China's World War II Narrative: A Closer Look

11min

China's Historical Narrative and Its Impact on Nationalism

4min

For most of its history, the People’s Republic of China limited public discussion of the war against Japan. It was an experience of victimization—and one that saw Mao Zedong and Chiang Kai-shek fighting for the same goals. But now, as China grows more powerful, the meaning of the war is changing. In this week's episode Rana Mitter argues that China’s reassessment of World War II is central to its newfound confidence abroad and to mounting nationalism at home. To find out more about Rana Mitter's book click here: https://bit.ly/35RwkPf. To listen to Gideon Rachman's podcast click here: https://play.acast.com/s/therachmanreview -------------------------- Intelligence Squared+. The world's best speakers. Your questions. £4.99 per month. Intelligence Squared+ will bring you live, interactive events every week on our new online platform. Just like at our real-life events, you’ll be able to put your questions to our speakers, vote in live polls and interact with other members of the audience. Your subscription will give you access to multiple events featuring the world’s top thinkers and opinion formers, including Thomas Piketty, Margaret Atwood, Clive Woodward, Thomas Friedman, Meera Syal and Paloma Faith. For a full list of Intelligence Squared+ events and to subscribe, click here: https://bit.ly/2yfYIfm

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