This narrative traces the story of modern China under the regime of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, revealing the development of military and political forces within the Nationalist Government, the Kuomintang, and the Communist Part, as well as other external influences.
The account begins with Chiang’s early days as a young officer in Sun Yat-sen’s service and concludes with his departure from the mainland to Formosa. In tracing the rise of the Generalissimo to power, his unification of China, and his stand against Japanese aggression, the author reveals the true stature of the Chinese leader in the light of his achievements, his limitations, and the intertwining domestic and international situations.
Mr. Liu gives a fascinating account of the politico-military maneuvers of Soviet Russia in China, of Germany’s military diplomacy in that area, and of the vital roles with United States military efforts have played in that country. China’s part in World War II is thoroughly discussed; the hidden and open struggles between Nationalists and Communists are related; the military events and Communist strategy are presented with full analysis up to the fall of the mainland in 1949.
