As the world marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, a new CGTN feature delves into China’s often-overlooked Main Eastern Battlefield. This immersive documentary transports viewers to key moments between 1937 and 1945, revealing tales of courage, sacrifice, and global solidarity.
Unearthed Secrets and Artifacts
For the first time, historians have pinpointed the clandestine meeting site of the Nine Gentlemen of Shenyang as they organized resistance following the September 18th Incident. Alongside this discovery, the feature showcases rare artifacts like the brush General Fan Zixia wielded while orchestrating the Hundred-Regiments Campaign—a decisive series of operations that disrupted enemy supply lines across northern China.
The March That Crossed Continents
More than a national anthem, the March of the Volunteers transcended borders, resonating on battlefields in Europe and America. Through archival footage and scholarly analysis, viewers learn how this stirring composition became a rallying cry for Allied forces, fostering a shared commitment to justice and freedom.
Convoys on the Stilwell Road
Perhaps most harrowing are the stories of Chinese drivers on the Stilwell Road—nicknamed the Lifeline of Asia—who steered supply trucks directly into enemy tanks to protect vital aid convoys. These frontline accounts, enriched by interviews with survivors and their descendants, underscore the human cost of war and the resilience that shaped postwar peace efforts.
Global Lessons in Peace and Justice
By weaving together testimonies from international scholars, war survivors, and family members, the feature reaffirms the enduring significance of China’s Main Eastern Battlefield in the broader history of World War II. Set to air on September 1, this documentary invites a new generation to reflect on the power of solidarity and the ongoing quest for global justice.
Reference(s):
CGTN Feature – The Main Eastern Battlefield: China in World War II
cgtn.com
