Key Topic 1, Establishing Communist Rule, 1949-76 Flashcards
What was the May 4th Movement?
Student led protests in China that began in 1919.
Mao joined the movement in 1919.
Who was the leader of the Nationalists?
Chiang Kai Shek.
What did the Nationalists do in the late 1920s?
They became the leaders of China and tackled the warlords to bring China under central control.
Who founded the Communists and when?
The Communists were founded in 1921, led by Chen Duxiu.
What was the relationship between Nationalists and Communists in the early 1920s?
They cooperated to some extent.
What significant action did Chiang take against the Communists?
He decided to massacre his communist partners.
What event began in 1931 involving Japan?
Japan began to invade and conquer China, starting with the occupation of Manchuria.
What was the Long March?
A mass retreat by the Red Army, approximately 85,000 soldiers participated.
What was Mao’s role in the Long March?
Mao emerged as a key figure during the retreat.
How has the Long March been remembered?
As a heroic organized retreat and a piece of propaganda.
What myth surrounds the length of the Long March?
Mao claimed they traveled 12,500 km, but the actual route was only 6,000 km.
What does the Long March reveal about Mao?
He exaggerated his achievements and was ruthless during the retreat.
What was the cooperation between Nationalists and Communists during WWII?
They worked together to defeat the Japanese.
What were the reasons for Communist success?
Support from peasants, better leadership under Mao, and land distribution among peasants.
What were the reasons for Nationalist failure?
Limited support from cities and concessions to the Japanese.
