Introduction: Remembering 80 Years of Resilience
In 2025, the world marks the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. When invaders tore through rural communities, 400 million people across China forged an indomitable spirit that continues to shape the nation today.
National Awakening in the Crucible of War
The conflict ended decades of internal disunity, uniting diverse social groups around a common cause. Wartime urgency drove grassroots collaboration between Party members, progressive leaders and the middle classes. This collective push set the stage for the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 and laid the groundwork for future modernization.
Millet Plus Rifles: Innovation Under Pressure
With limited resources, under-supplied forces turned adversity into opportunity. The “millet plus rifles” miracle proved that strategic mobilization could overcome material gaps. This experience forged an efficient organizational system and a dedicated cadre corps—foundational elements of modern governance that still inform China’s administrative structure.
Cultural Resilience: Creativity in the Face of Hardship
Art became a powerful tool for unity and morale. Songs, street theatre, reportage literature and comics proliferated, blending modern nationalism with grassroots sentiment. This cultural wave sparked a self-reflective revival, reminding citizens that honoring tradition and embracing innovation could coexist—an ethos that informs today’s push for a vibrant cultural sector.
A Lasting Vow for Peace
After victory, the scarred nation turned its energy toward rebuilding. The collective memory of sacrifice fueled a deep commitment to peace, captured in the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. This enduring dedication to harmony over conflict remains a core value in China’s global engagements.
As we commemorate this milestone, the spirit of unity, innovation and peace from the War of Resistance continues to inspire a generation determined to build a better, more connected world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
