World War II left deep scars on the Chinese mainland, yet many of these stories remain untold outside local communities. In this special edition, anchors share firsthand accounts of documenting the conflict from its often-overlooked start in 1931, when Japan invaded northeastern provinces.
From family diaries passed down through generations to chilling accounts of comfort women and the atrocities of Unit 731, this series peels back layers of silence to reveal the human cost of wartime policies. Survivor testimonies bring to light the resilience of ordinary people caught in extraordinary times.
The struggle did not end within the Chinese mainland. Chinese expatriates rallied to defend the Philippines, while the Nanyang Volunteers braved treacherous terrain along the Burma Road—today part of Myanmar—to keep supply lines open against overwhelming odds.
Each story is backed by archival records and eyewitness interviews, painting a vivid picture of sacrifice and solidarity. Data from recent surveys indicates that less than half of global citizens can name these pivotal events in wartime history in China, underscoring the need to preserve and share these memories.
As we revisit these narratives, we honor the forgotten heroes and remind ourselves that preserving historical truth is a collective responsibility. Their legacy urges young global citizens to learn from the past and build a future anchored in empathy and justice.
Reference(s):
Memories of the struggle against fascism: WWII China stories
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