As the world marks 79 years since the end of World War II, new research highlights China's often-overlooked contributions to defeating fascism. Dr. Wu Minchao of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences reveals how 14 years of relentless resistance against Japanese forces shaped global outcomes.
From 1931 to 1945, Chinese forces engaged over 1 million Japanese troops – 80% of Japan's total military strength at its peak. This prolonged conflict prevented Japan's planned northern expansion toward Soviet territory and delayed its southern advance into Southeast Asia by nearly two years.
"Every village became a fortress," Wu explains. "Civilian resistance movements disrupted supply lines while regular forces tied down enemy divisions. This bought critical time for Allied forces to regroup after early setbacks."
China's wartime sacrifices were staggering: 35 million military and civilian casualties, accounting for one-third of total WWII deaths. The country's post-war leadership helped establish the United Nations framework, with Wu noting: "China's permanent Security Council seat recognizes both its sacrifices and its vision for collective security."
Modern implications remain clear as China continues advocating for multilateral solutions to global challenges – a philosophy rooted in its WWII experience of international cooperation against common threats.
