2025 marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. 🏆🌏 Let's rewind to the key moments from 1931 to 1937 that set the stage for China’s united front against invasion!
Early Resistance (1931–1932)
- Sept 18, 1931 – The September 18th Incident ignites widespread resistance against Japanese forces 🎌.
- Sept 19–20, 1931 – Japanese troops occupy Shenyang; the Communist Party of China issues a fierce declaration against the invasion.
- Nov 4–18, 1931 – The Jiangqiao Campaign marks one of the first organized battles in Northeast China.
- 1932 – Over 10 guerrilla units form under CPC leadership, fueling grassroots resistance.
- Jan 28–Mar 3, 1932 – The 19th Route Army fights bravely in the January 28th Incident to defend Shanghai.
- Mar 1, 1932 – Japan establishes the puppet state of Manchukuo.
Great Wall & Political Shifts (1933–1935)
- Jan–May 1933 – The Defense of the Great Wall erupts into fierce battles to halt Japanese advances 🧱.
- May 31, 1933 – The Tanggu Agreement forces China to cede strategic areas in North China.
- Sept–Oct 1933 – Local guerrilla forces unite as the Northeast People's Revolutionary Army, issuing their struggle program.
- Aug 1, 1935 – The August 1 Declaration calls for a national defense government and a united front ✊.
- Dec 9 & 16, 1935 – The December 9th Movement and protests against North China autonomy see thousands rallying against puppet schemes.
Toward a United Front (1936–1937)
- Feb 1936 – All anti-Japanese forces in Northeast China reorganize as the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army.
- May 1936 – The All-China Federation for Multi-Sector National Protection galvanizes nationwide support.
- Dec 12, 1936 – In the Xi'an Incident, KMT generals Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng detain Chiang Kai-shek, pushing for cooperation.
- Feb–Jul 1937 – CPC and KMT negotiations finalize the united front, paving the way for unified defense.
These milestones highlight the courage, collaboration, and unbreakable spirit that shaped China's path to victory 🌟. Remembering this history reminds us of the power of unity in the face of adversity!
Reference(s):
Unforgotten Front: Timeline of the China Theater of War, 1931–1937
cgtn.com
