The Rise of the Communist Party of China

When the Japanese invaded China in 1937, the Guomindang retreated, leading to a long and exhausting war that significantly weakened China. The war-induced economic turmoil resulted in a drastic increase in prices, severely impacting the lives of ordinary people. Rural China faced dual crises: ecological challenges such as soil depletion, deforestation, and floods, as well as socio-economic issues stemming from exploitative land systems, indebtedness, primitive technology, and inadequate communications infrastructure.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was established in 1921, shortly after the Russian Revolution, which exerted a significant global influence. Inspired by the Russian success, leaders like Lenin and Trotsky established the Comintern (Third International) in 1918 to promote worldwide revolution and end exploitation. While initially appealing across borders, the Comintern eventually became a tool for Soviet interests before being dissolved in 1943. Mao Zedong, a prominent CCP leader, diverged from traditional Marxist ideologies by focusing on mobilizing the peasantry for revolution, leading to the CCP’s rise to power.

Mao Zedong’s radical approach was evident during the period when the CCP established a stronghold in Jiangxi, organizing strong peasants’ councils (soviets) and advocating for land redistribution. Mao also addressed women’s issues by supporting rural women’s associations and implementing progressive marriage laws. Through meticulous surveys and studies, Mao examined social problems and proposed solutions based on empirical data.

The Guomindang’s blockade of the Communist Soviet prompted the CCP to embark on the Long March (1934-35), a grueling 6,000-mile journey to Shanxi, where they established a new base in Yanan. Here, they further developed their agenda to eradicate warlordism, implement land reforms, and combat foreign imperialism, garnering strong social support. Despite temporary cooperation during the war years, the Communists ultimately emerged victorious, establishing their authority as the Guomindang faced defeat.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was established in 1921, shortly after the Russian Revolution, which exerted a significant global influence. Inspired by the Russian success, leaders like Lenin and Trotsky established the Comintern (Third International) in 1918 to promote worldwide revolution and end exploitation.

Let us learn more about the rise of Communist Party of China!