The Triumph of Communism in China 1945-50: Soviet Policy Towards China 1945–50

Question 1

Summarise Soviet policy towards China between 1945-50

Answer 1

• 14 August 1945 - Treaty of Friendship and Alliance with GMD to safeguard Soviet influence in Manchuria
• Support for Chongqing negotiations
• Autumn 1945 - support for CCP in Manchuria
• Gave assistance to CCP during Civil War, but kept options open to co-operate with GMD
• 14 February 1950 - Sino-Soviet pact

Question 2

When was the Treaty of Friendship and Alliance signed?

Answer 2

• 14 February 1945

- Between GMD and USSR

Question 3

What agreements were made under the Treaty of Friendship and Alliance?

Answer 3

• Jiang acknowledged independence of Outer Mongolia and Soviet military occupation of Port Arthur
• Stalin recognised Jiang Jieshi as China’s leader
• USSR would not aid CCP

Question 4

How did USSR’s position change from late August 1945?

Answer 4

• Despite Treaty of Friendship and Alliance, Soviet forces of occupation in Manchuria were unofficial ready to help CCP
• USSR allowed CCP to occupy smaller towns of Manchuria
• Allowed both sides to ‘resolve’ issue of who takes former Soviet occupied areas, but CCP powerful in north so they gained these areas
• Slowed support after tension with US

Question 5

What assistance did the USSR give to CCP between 1948-49?

Answer 5

• Spring 1948 - Stalin sent Soviet commissar to aid advancement of CCP forces and as act of contact with Mao

Question 6

How did the USSR simultaneously keep options open with both sides between 1948-49?

Answer 6

• Stalin kept contact with GMD
• When Mao’s forces advanced into central and southern China, Stalin tried mediating as requested by Jiang Jieshi
• Stalin warned Mao of potential US intervention but Mao rejected mediation by the USSR

Question 7

When was the Sino-Soviet Pact made?

Answer 7

• 14 February 1950

Question 8

What agreements were made under the Sino-Soviet Pact?

Answer 8

Both agreed to

• Co-operate in terms of defence in case of attack by Japan or its ally (US)
• Conclude peace treaty with Japan which would not threaten interests of either state
• Not conclude hostile agreements aimed at other member of pact
• Consult closely on matters of mutual interest

Question 9

What additional agreements were made under the Sino-Soviet Pact?

Answer 9

• USSR would receive valuable raw materials at low prices

- Stalin provided military support for PRC e.g establishment of air-defence installations in coastal areas near Taiwan