The Modern Period

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Long March

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The Modern Period

Definition

The Long March was a pivotal military retreat undertaken by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1934 to 1936, during which they traveled over 6,000 miles to evade the Nationalist forces. This arduous journey not only helped to preserve the CCP but also solidified Mao Zedong's leadership and established the party's base in Yan'an, playing a crucial role in the eventual success of the Communist revolution in China.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Long March began in October 1934 as the CCP retreated from Jiangxi Province, facing heavy attacks from Nationalist forces led by Chiang Kai-shek.
  2. Only about 8,000 of the original 100,000 participants completed the journey, highlighting the extreme hardships faced during the march, including harsh terrain and shortages of food.
  3. During the Long March, Mao Zedong emerged as a prominent leader within the CCP, shaping its strategies and future direction.
  4. The march is often seen as a symbol of perseverance and determination for the CCP, boosting morale among party members and supporters.
  5. The Long March ultimately led to the establishment of a new base in Yan'an, which became crucial for planning and organizing efforts against Nationalist forces during the later stages of the Civil War.

Review Questions

  • How did the Long March influence Mao Zedong's rise to power within the Chinese Communist Party?
    • The Long March was instrumental in elevating Mao Zedong's status within the Chinese Communist Party. As he navigated through difficult challenges during this retreat, his leadership and strategic decisions garnered respect and loyalty from fellow party members. The successful completion of the Long March also allowed Mao to consolidate his power, setting him up as a central figure in shaping party policies and strategies for future conflicts against Nationalist forces.
  • Discuss how the hardships faced during the Long March contributed to the development of communist ideology in China.
    • The immense hardships faced during the Long March had a profound impact on communist ideology in China. The experiences of suffering, sacrifice, and resilience among party members reinforced ideas about class struggle and revolutionary zeal. These themes became central to Maoist thought, emphasizing the necessity of perseverance in achieving social change. The narrative of overcoming adversity became a powerful tool for rallying support for the CCP in subsequent years.
  • Evaluate the significance of the Long March in shaping modern China's political landscape and its implications for future governance.
    • The Long March holds immense significance in shaping modern China's political landscape as it solidified Mao Zedong's leadership and established key principles that would guide CCP governance. By creating a narrative around sacrifice and perseverance, it helped foster a sense of unity among party members and supporters. The establishment of Yan'an as a base allowed for ideological development that informed policies after 1949, influencing China's governance structure and approach to both domestic affairs and foreign relations as it emerged as a global power.
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