Assess the GMD rule of China between 1928 and 1937

Assess the GMD rule of China between 1928 and 1937

2. Assess the successes and failures of the GMD rule in China between 1928 and 1937.

In assessing the successes and failures of the GMD in their rule it has to be said that their reign was primarily characterized by a series of failures. These failures can be assessed from the view that the GMD’s power in China was always more apparent than real. The GMD also failed as they were detached from their people and their original political beliefs. These failures were reflected in political, military and economic incompetence during the GMD rule from 1928 to 1937.

The GMD failed to attain a degree of control over China. They never had more than 1/3 of the land under its direct control and never more than the support of 2/3 of the population. The spread of the distribution of the population was one circumstance which helped the GMD exercise their authority. The GMD had land reforms and equitable rents in mind but failed to implement these successfully, an illustration of the GMD’s lack of control.

The GMD also failed to control China as they were an inefficient bureaucracy susceptible to corruption. Many funds disappeared. The lack of personal incentive to bring about change withing the GMD resulted in their failure to control China and gain support. In addition, many warlords who had been defeated in the northern expedition were allowed to keep their private armies or given key roles in the government. Chiang could not enact any policies that may have improved the lives of his people even if he wanted to because of the party structure and the social composition of its leadership. Chiang, whether willing or not represented the interests of a mere minority of urban class Chinese

The GMD also failed militarily. The Japanese held many Chinese territories between 1931-1945. During the Sino-Japanese War the Nationalists had to mover their capital from Nanking to Chongquing. The ruthless 14-year Japanese occupation was humiliating and reflected badly on the...