The Rest Is History

236. China and World War II (Part 2)

Sep 22, 2022

Rana Mitter, a Professor of History and Politics at Oxford University and an expert on modern China, dives deep into China's tumultuous role in World War II. The conversation highlights the harrowing events of the Rape of Nanjing and the ethically complex decision by Chinese leaders to flood the Yellow River to halt the Japanese advance. Mitter also explores the contrasting tactics of leaders like Chiang Kai-shek and the implications of collaborationist regimes, shedding light on how these historical events shape China's collective memory today.

01:07:14

Episode guests

Rana Mitter

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Roots of the Cold War in China

01:04

Chankashek Saves China

01:22

The Victorious Army's Rewards

00:40

Intro

5min

Psychology of Atrocity: Japan's Conquest of China

5min

The Dikes of Despair

8min

Operation Ichigo and China's Struggle

7min

Political Dynamics in WWII China

23min

The Fall of Collaboration and Paths Untaken

9min

The Lasting Legacy of World War II in China's Memory

5min

Tom and Dominic welcome back special guest Rana Mitter to discuss China's position during World War Two.

This episode covers the Rape of Nanjing by Japanese forces, the military tactic of flooding the Yellow River, the deal between Chinese Nationalist Wang Jin Wei and Japan, and the unlikely pairing of 'Vinegar Joe' Stilwell and Chiang Kai-shek.

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