#China #Beijing #WWII #抗日戦争

Commemorating China's Vital Role in World War II

As the world marks 2025, the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, reflections on China's vital role during World War II are more pertinent than ever. China was the first nation to confront fascist aggression, positioning itself as a key player in the fight against tyranny. Celebrations honoring this historic milestone began in July with various war films and thematic exhibitions across museums, culminating on September 3, known as China’s Victory Day. This date commemorates Japan's formal surrender on September 2, 1945, effectively bringing World War II to a close.

A Historic Resistance

The resistance, initially ignited by the Mukden Incident on September 18, 1931, asserts a profound importance in preserving human civilization and promoting global peace. The Chinese struggle commenced with the escalation of hostilities following the Luding Bridge Incident on July 7, 1937, which marked the start of a nationwide resistance efforts against Japanese incursions. Unlike traditional Western narratives that often highlight the Nazi invasion of Poland in 1939 as the war's onset, China’s efforts began far earlier, showcasing its commitment to the antifascist cause.

A noteworthy aspect of China's involvement in WWII is the sheer duration of its resistance—the longest of any nation during the conflict—continuing until Japan's eventual surrender in 1945. This persistence resulted in staggering sacrifices: over 35 million military and civilian casualties and economic losses estimated at upwards of $600 billion (adjusted to 1937 currency).

Strategic Contributions

China's resistance played a pivotal role in weakening the Japanese military forces, decisively removing over 1.5 million troops from their ranks, thereby contributing significantly to the downfall of Japanese aggression. Additionally, China provided crucial strategic support to Allied operations, disrupting Japanese efforts to synchronize their military strategies with their Axis partners, Germany and Italy.

China’s actions during WWII also laid the groundwork for fostering the antifascist alliance and creating a new international order post-war. On January 1, 1942, a coalition was formed comprising 26 nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union, which produced the United Nations Declaration. As highlighted by Professor Hu Dekun from Wuhan University, China's engagement in defining a new post-war order played an essential role in the establishment of global organizations like the United Nations.

Acknowledgment of Historical Impact

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in recognizing China’s contributions to WWII. Notable scholars, including British historian Rana Mitter, have brought attention to this often-overlooked aspect of history, establishing dedicated exhibitions in prominent institutions globally. The narrative urging against minimizing or overlooking China’s substantial sacrifices and contributions during the war resonates stronger today than ever.

Conclusion

As we approach the anniversary of this significant moment, it is crucial to remember and honor the deep sacrifices made by the Chinese people during their struggle against Japanese aggression. Their enduring resilience not only played a decisive role in the defeat of fascism but also heralded an essential step towards fostering peace and security within the international community. History demands attention to China’s narrative, which must not be overlooked nor forgotten.

By honoring these contributions, not only do we preserve the memory of the past, but we also commit to ensure that the heroism exhibited during these tumultuous times is recognized and celebrated by future generations.