Political developments within China: The Second United Front Notes

The Xi'an Incident: A Turning Point

1. In December 1936, Chiang Kai-shek was kidnapped by his own generals, Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng, in Xi'an.
2. Zhang, a warlord from Manchuria, was frustrated by Chiang's focus on the Communists instead of resisting Japanese aggression.
3. The incident forced Chiang to negotiate with the CCP, mediated by Zhou Enlai, a senior Communist leader.

Formation of the Second United Front

1. The Second United Front was an alliance between the GMD and the CCP to resist Japanese aggression.
2. It was not a formal treaty but an agreement to suspend the civil war and coordinate efforts against Japan.
3. The CCP agreed to place its forces under nominal GMD command, while the GMD recognized the CCP's legitimacy.

Impact of the Second United Front

1. Military Cooperation:
   1. The GMD and CCP coordinated military strategies, though cooperation was often strained.
   2. The CCP focused on guerrilla warfare, while the GMD engaged in conventional battles.
2. Political Legitimacy:
   1. The alliance enhanced the CCP's legitimacy as a national force, gaining it support from Chinese citizens and international observers.
3. Suspension of Civil War:
   1. The civil war was temporarily halted, allowing both parties to focus on the Japanese threat.

Historical Significance of the Second United Front

1. Unified Resistance:
   1. The alliance enabled China to mount a more effective resistance against Japan, prolonging the war and straining Japanese resources.
   2. The CCP used the alliance to expand its influence, particularly in rural areas, setting the stage for its eventual victory in the civil war.
2. Legacy of Division:
   1. The breakdown of the Second United Front highlighted the deep divisions within China, which re-emerged after Japan's defeat.