Forgotten Ally: China's Vital Contribution to World War II

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Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937–1945

by Rana Mitter

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23016 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	520 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, it is crucial to remember the forgotten ally that played a vital role in the Allied victory: China.

The Japanese Invasion and China's Resistance

On July 7, 1937, Japanese forces launched a full-scale invasion of China, marking the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War. This invasion was part of Japan's broader imperial ambitions in Asia.

Despite being ill-equipped and outmatched by the Japanese military, the Chinese government under the leadership of Chiang Kai-shek refused to surrender. The Chinese army fought back fiercely, engaging in a prolonged and bloody guerrilla war.

The Importance of the Burma Road

One of China's most vital lifelines during the war was the Burma Road, a treacherous 700-mile highway connecting Kunming, China to Lashio, Burma. This road became the primary route for transporting supplies from the Allied forces to China.

The Burma Road was constantly under attack by Japanese forces, but the Chinese and Allied engineers worked tirelessly to keep it open. The road played a crucial role in supplying Chiang Kai-shek's forces and maintaining China's resistance.

China's Contribution to the Allied Victory

China's resilience and determination in the face of adversity tied down a significant portion of the Japanese military forces, preventing them from fully committing to other fronts of the war.

Additionally, China's involvement in the war forced Japan to divert resources away from its Pacific campaign, contributing to the Allied victory in the Battle of Midway and other key naval engagements.

Communist and Nationalist Alliance

China's resistance to Japan was not limited to the Nationalist government under Chiang Kai-shek. The Chinese Communist Party, led by Mao Zedong, also played a significant role in fighting the Japanese invaders.

Despite their political differences, the Nationalists and Communists formed a temporary alliance against the common enemy. This alliance, known as the United Front, helped to unify China's resistance and increase its effectiveness.

Forgotten Sacrifice

Despite China's significant contribution to the Allied victory, its role in World War II often goes overlooked and underappreciated. This is partly due to the Cold War era and the ideological divide between China and the West.

However, recent scholarship and initiatives have brought China's sacrifices and contributions back into the spotlight. Books like "Forgotten Ally" by Rana Mitter and documentaries like "China's Forgotten War" have helped to raise awareness about this important chapter in history.

China's role in World War II was pivotal. Its resistance to Japan, its sacrifice, and its contribution to the Allied victory deserve to be remembered and honored alongside those of other Allied nations.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, let us not forget the forgotten ally that played a crucial role in defeating fascism and preserving global freedom.

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Forgotten Ally: China's World War II, 1937–1945

by Rana Mitter

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23016 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	520 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE