Military History in China

Chinese military history has a rich record of accomplishment, dating from 2200 BCE and continuing today. The country’s emphasis on Confucian ideals and peaceful solutions are the flip side of the military’s strong influence. In fact, the Chinese military are pioneers in armaments. They revolutionized the use of crossbows, cavalry and gunpowder. Sun Tzu, the most influential figure in Chinese military history, is another major figure in this area. His book, The Art of War, still influences military strategists throughout China and the rest of the world. Today, China’s military is an international force of highly trained professionals. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) represents all military forces for the country.

World War II

Chinese involvement in World War II is a significant milestone. The conflict has roots dating back to 1894. This conflict ended with the defeat of Japan by the Allied forces in 1945. Through rapid modernization and organization of the country’s vast resources, China played was a major factor in winning this victory. Battles in Manchuria, Shanghai, Nanjing and Southern Shanxi are key parts of this history. These battles ultimately freed the Chinese people from control by the Empire of Japan.

Sino-Indian War

Another major conflict is the history of the war between China and India in 1962. This dispute involved a contested Himalayan border and Tibetan revolts. The fighting ended on November 21, 1962, with Zhou Enlai offering a ceasefire. Concerned about attempts by India to influence the region and penetrate into zones of Chinese military control, this ceasefire is an example of smart diplomacy to resolve a potentially huge international conflict.

Sino-Soviet Border Conflict

Conflicts with the then Soviet Union are another key part of modern Chinese military history. A series of border clashes led to a profound shift in relations between China and the Soviet Union. These events, which nearly resulted in the use of nuclear weapons, gave the United States a chance to renew relations with China. This began a new era in foreign affairs with China and the West, giving rise to increased trade and meetings between China and the USA.

Hong Kong

Today, the Chinese military is a respected as a powerful force. With its protection of Hong Kong, the PLA now oversees a major cultural and economic location. Since the transfer of sovereignty from Great Britain to China, Hong Kong’s stability is part of the PLA’s intelligent approach to handling this change in leadership. The region’s success and prestige are the greatest proof of the PLA’s ability to handle situations of this importance.