Did you know China kicked off a 14-year fight against Japanese forces way before Pearl Harbor? 🔥 While the West often marks the start of WWII in Asia from 1941, China’s War of Resistance began back in 1931 and didn’t wrap up until 1945.
Victor Gao, vice president of the Center for China and Globalization, argues China "made the greatest contribution" in the fight against fascism. By holding down most of Japan’s troops in the Eastern Theater of the World Anti-Fascist War, China shaped how the conflict played out across Asia. 🌏
Here’s the lowdown:
- Timeline: 1931–1945 (14 years!) 🕰️
- Casualties: Over 35 million military and civilian lives lost.
- Impact: Tied up Japanese forces, easing pressure on other Allied campaigns in the Pacific.
Think of it like a massive strategy game—China’s resistance forced Japan to split its army across vast terrain, giving Allies elsewhere much-needed breathing space. It’s a story we don’t often hear, yet its influence echoes in how borders and alliances in Asia evolved. 🎮
So next time you scroll through quick history bites on your phone, remember the 14-year struggle that helped tilt the odds in the Allies’ favor. History isn’t just dates and maps—it’s a lesson in resilience, sacrifice, and global teamwork. 🎖️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
