

Mao: The Sino-Japanese War with Carl Zha
Apr 16, 2022
Carl Zha, host of the Silk and Steel podcast and a product of the post-Mao generation, delves into China's tumultuous pre-revolutionary history. He discusses Japan's imperial expansion and the chaotic scramble by world powers over China, challenging the heroic narrative of the U.S. open-door policy. The conversation paints a vivid picture of internal conflicts, alliances, and the rise of revolutionary figures. Zha also reflects on the impact of these historical events on modern China, tracing Mao's strategic decisions amidst the complexities of the Sino-Japanese War.
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Imperial Powers Carve China
- Japan's modernization enabled it to defeat China, shocking the Chinese society deeply.
- Multiple imperial powers scrambled to carve up China, weakening its sovereignty significantly.
Sino-Soviet Alliance Origins
- The Soviet Union supported Sun Yat-sen's KMT to break diplomatic isolation.
- This led to a coalition government allowing Communist Party members within KMT ranks initially.
KMT-CPC Split Catalyst
- Chiang Kai-shek betrayed the alliance with the communists using Shanghai Massacre to wipe communists out.
- This split the KMT and CPC and sparked Mao's rural insurgency strategy.