Chiang Kai-Shek goes to Germany: An Axis China Timeline

[The Sandman]

Well, another alternative could just be that as the NRA is heading into Shandong the Japanese attack them. Aside from any promises the Beiyang government may have made regarding territory, the Japanese do have a vested interest in keeping China disunited. So they gladly seize the opportunity to be invited into China in the interests of smashing the KMT.

Of course, this also means that they're likely to cement their control over the Shandong Peninsula in the process, which will have interesting political ramifications.

 

[Empee]

China in the Axis would mean big win for the Allies-it probably means Japan in the Allies camp or friendly neutral(but hard to see it).
In all the Chinese state at the time required enormous decade long efforts in order to rival Japan or Western powers. It has neither Navy nor ability to create one to challenge Japanese islands, and the Korean peninsula is in good defensive position. The colonial holdings in Indochina, Hong Kong could be threatened but further conquests are unlikely. Australia, and to lesser extent India are quite safe.
This means that Allies from the start of the war(if it happens in similiar way as in OTL) are in great position versus Germany-most of the Pacific fleet of the British Empire can be directed to defense of Atlantic and Britain. It would make the naval battles that were happening in OTL easier and shorter for the Allies. Air assets and pilots diverted from Pacific that were there in OTL would also lend a hand in Battle for Britain.So in all the Allies are in better position then in OTL. Also expect battles for Africa to be shorter with more troops from Pacific available.
SU is in slight disadvantage-as Germans might abandon plans to invaded or seriously fight England and focus resources spent there in OTL on attack against SU, and Chinese army might pose some disruption.
But in all it wouldn't face destruction, only some smaller gains postwar.
An interesting case would be Japan if in Allied camp and its postwar fate as fascist state with racial doctrine.

 

[Paul MacQ]

China in the Axis would mean big win for the Allies-it probably means Japan in the Allies camp or friendly neutral(but hard to see it).
In all the Chinese state at the time required enormous decade long efforts in order to rival Japan or Western powers. It has neither Navy nor ability to create one to challenge Japanese islands, and the Korean peninsula is in good defensive position. The colonial holdings in Indochina, Hong Kong could be threatened but further conquests are unlikely. Australia, and to lesser extent India are quite safe.
This means that Allies from the start of the war(if it happens in similiar way as in OTL) are in great position versus Germany-most of the Pacific fleet of the British Empire can be directed to defense of Atlantic and Britain. It would make the naval battles that were happening in OTL easier and shorter for the Allies. Air assets and pilots diverted from Pacific that were there in OTL would also lend a hand in Battle for Britain.So in all the Allies are in better position then in OTL. Also expect battles for Africa to be shorter with more troops from Pacific available.
SU is in slight disadvantage-as Germans might abandon plans to invaded or seriously fight England and focus resources spent there in OTL on attack against SU, and Chinese army might pose some disruption.
But in all it wouldn't face destruction, only some smaller gains postwar.
An interesting case would be Japan if in Allied camp and its postwar fate as fascist state with racial doctrine.

Starting point here is from story line
The Centre Cannot Hold: China during the Warlord Period 1919-1929
1919 - the Year of Revolution:"
. what about 2 Decades "time required enormous decade long effort"
A China does not need to build a Traditional Navy with Battle wagons and the like to threaten Japan,
Subs and shore Based Aircraft would can do that , now who needs a place to rebuild a Aicraft Design and Building infrastructure Oh the Germans, maybe they can help.
Who will need in the years to come a place to Build new Prototype Subs out of the eye of the Powers in Europe , Oh Germany again.

Germany will need Raw Materials who might have some they need (damn long way to get them, But if being handed out Cheap might be worth it) Allot of this China has, (I am talking Trade as both nations strapped for cash )
But China will need to build its Infrastructure up again were to get some of the best Engineers and Trade school experts.

This is a Period that the Soviet Union is rebuilding almost from scratch with an Infrastructure almost as in bad a condition as the Chinese and they built that up with very little outside help. If China Can rebuild 1/3 as well as the USSR did between 1919 and 1939 she will be a Industrial powerhouse to compare with Japan at least. Big ask but possible and I am thinking far from ASB

Germany is also a wreck but has a number of things Chinese Military might find useful like disused Ammunition Factories and little things like all the Tools for Making a 77mm field Gun, say they go as scrap to China yes get reused, This is a possible ally that might be more useful in the long run than the Secret Testing grounds the Germans built in Soviet union and the Tech Trade would be more useful.

Biggest obstacle Distance and Logistics, But this has a up side also in that China is unlikely to be seen as a threat. Japan after all did not really start drifting away from the allies till the Washington Treaty a couple of years away

Just having a Market that will buy German Machinery even on a small scale at first, would help Germany Economy after the war, Also the Italians admired and worked with Chaing OTL

All that and a Germany that is important to the rebuilding of a Proud China might be able to pulls strings and influence than Germany had with Japan.

And one big thing China can build without getting into problems with the US, that is isolationist without those big navies. Who said a US will even come into a war in this timeline in fact a better performing Less corrupt China is better Market that might be more important and still friction between US and Japan, China with no powerful Navy and Force projection.

China does not need powerful Navy to threaten the European Empires, And might seem little threat to the Philippians, Unlike French Indo Chino Malaya and Burma.

Start small even a Couple German Pilots and ground crew say Fokker ( Anthony Fokker will sell to anyone to restart his business and good German connections ) built aircraft, and 3-400 German advisors ( there a so many disillusioned German Troops with skills and no jobs, you get a good Cadre for a 10,000 strong force )

 

[Empee]

Soviet Union was not based on the same level as China, it was based on Russian industry and development, which before WW1 was among top industrial nations in the world.
The more Germany invests in China the less it has to wage war in Europe.
Any subs for China mean less subs for Atlantic. Also you need crews, training and logistics base to support them-which China would need to build and train from nothing.
And China has nothing to offer really in exchange for that that it didn't give to Germany in OTL when it did pursue a cooperation with it.
Basically China is a very poor, rural country with limited infrastructure that would need several decades of generous investment to work.
It will at least a decade to get it unified again succesfully.
As a opponent to Allies it will be not much of a threat at that time in terms of military power.

As to US-its rather given it will enter a war against Germany. The best China can hope for in short term would be neutrality. In longer term it would be better to lose to USA as it would avoid Soviet occupation.

China does not need powerful Navy to threaten the European Empires

No matter what it will manage to posses in 20 years it won't be a serious threat, there isn't a way to threaten India really, Indochina is the only real vulnerable target, and without Navy it's impossible for China to threaten British possesions besides Hong Kong.

As for Soviet Union-they would be seriously beaten, and face communist guerillas within Chinese territories.

Start small even a Couple German Pilots and ground crew say Fokker ( Anthony Fokker will sell to anyone to restart his business and good German connections ) built aircraft

I doubt China in 20s has any capability to build within a decade anything other then some fighters and short range bombers of limited numbers, considering the distances involved in Asian theater they would be no threat to Allies, besides SU.



As far as I see it-the war would end with Southern Invasion of China by Allies(Commonwealth, American and French forces, assisted by local resistance), Soviet occupation of Mongolia and Sinkiang province, while Japanese would regain their territory from before the war. During Cold War you would see a a division between capitalist and prosperous South China with regime installed by Americans, Soviet occupied territories and some kind of of corrupt fascist regime installed by Japanese. The only Enigma is what would happen to Japan as its political structure and beheaviour probably would be seen as unacceptable by the other countries.

 

[Paul MacQ]

Soviet Union was not based on the same level as China, it was based on Russian industry and development, which before WW1 was among top industrial nations in the world.
And China has nothing to offer really in exchange for that that it didn't give to Germany in OTL when it did pursue a cooperation with it.
Basically China is a very poor, rural country with limited infrastructure that would need several decades of generous investment to work.
It will at least a decade to get it unified again succesfully.
As a opponent to Allies it will be not much of a threat at that time in terms of military power.

Thinking of a Taipang Rebellion like Revolution not with the Religious fever but a fever none the less there is a Chinese Middle class, small but there and many of these peasants would easily rally to a Charismatic leader that promises a Death nail to the excesses of the War Lords, plenty of Historical examples of this in China. And a Chaing doing a Mussolini

Russian Infrastructure in 1919 is a mess and production low and Civil war problems and issues with the Poles happening at this time. Yes Russia has the factories she had before WW1 But is rather occupied with her own problems.

The more Germany invests in China the less it has to wage war in Europe.
Any subs for China mean less subs for Atlantic. Also you need crews, training and logistics base to support them-which China would need to build and train from nothing.

China during this Period was able to actual build some Infrastructure a few Steel Mills and Power stations, The main thing holding her back was infighting and other nations Meddling in her affairs looking out of there interests, I still think it possible for China with a Good leader and some help to get to about 1/3 Russia level.
As to US-its rather given it will enter a war against Germany. The best China can hope for in short term would be neutrality. In longer term it would be better to lose to USA as it would avoid Soviet occupation.

I cannot see how this works I have mentioned using some of the out of work German Tech and Skills available to help in a far of Nation, not large numbers But some experts. Keeping there hand in developing Weapons and other Items not just for war but industry in General.

It is a external Market something Germany is in desperate need of, I builds Germany up not detracts from it in the slightest. Germany has lost face in the international community, But there is a spark of interest in Far off China

Regarding Subs it was a thought as a possible way to go. But looking at the facts rather possible starting small again vessels under 400 tons for coastal work, Actual boasts German ability not reducing it. This is a place to keeping skill base intact and playing with new design ideas. not large numbers but even ability to produce a few a year by late 30's is a help to the German industrialist not a hinder, It is different market and effects the ability to produce Subs at home by Zero, But does produce a detail and experience for what is needed when the Germans need to starts building subs themselves at home later, Experience at building a infastrure from scratch is bad or detrimental to Germany how ?

No matter what it will manage to posses in 20 years it won't be a serious threat, there isn't a way to threaten India really, Indochina is the only real vulnerable target, and without Navy it's impossible for China to threaten British possesions besides Hong Kong.

As for Soviet Union-they would be seriously beaten, and face communist guerillas within Chinese territories.

I doubt China in 20s has any capability to build within a decade anything other then some fighters and short range bombers of limited numbers, considering the distances involved in Asian theater they would be no threat to Allies, besides SU.

What Communist guerrillas you assume that Chinese communism will develop in the way it did or will have a chance to Grow with a more fervent Chaing starting off with Different premise ?

Hmm Fighters and some Short Range Bombers, Fantastic More the sort of thing that will be needed than Subs. Short range Bombers that the Germans can Develop away from Germany Like dive Bombers that are great at short range protection of a Vulnerable coastline

As far as I see it-the war would end with Southern Invasion of China by Allies(Commonwealth, American and French forces, assisted by local resistance), Soviet occupation of Mongolia and Sinkiang province, while Japanese would regain their territory from before the war. During Cold War you would see a a division between capitalist and prosperous South China with regime installed by Americans, Soviet occupied territories and some kind of of corrupt fascist regime installed by Japanese. The only Enigma is what would happen to Japan as its political structure and beheaviour probably would be seen as unacceptable by the other countries.

Interesting But what American Forces why and how would the US get involved? in China. And you sure a Russian invasion would happen ? , A Chinese Take over of French Indo China and no Declaration of war with the British Empire since it is so invulnerable from this poor Backward China

 

[Paul MacQ]

Tongue still held firmly in Cheek

http://www.chinahistoryforum.com/index.php?showtopic=29274

Might be a useful place for ideas one a Development of Possible Chinese Airpower

 

[Hendryk]

Tongue still held firmly in Cheek

http://www.chinahistoryforum.com/index.php?showtopic=29274

Might be a useful place for ideas one a Development of Possible Chinese Airpower

You do realize that this is a reposting of "Superpower Empire", right?

Though I'm glad you noticed it over there. I don't post often at Chinahistoryforum.com.

 

[Paul MacQ]

You do realize that this is a reposting of "Superpower Empire", right?

Though I'm glad you noticed it over there. I don't post often at Chinahistoryforum.com.

Grins no I did not know it was here also, But was great reading .

 

[Empee]

You do realize that this is a reposting of "Superpower Empire", right?

Though I'm glad you noticed it over there. I don't post often at Chinahistoryforum.com.

So you being an expert, what do you think of Axis China scenarion and consequences for the Allies ?

 

[CCA]

Apologies for the lack of updates - I went on Holiday to Hamilton last weekend. Thanks to everyone for their kind comments and feedback.

I'd have to agree with PaulQ here - any help that China gets goes a long way. Even if the Germans successfully manage to set up one aircraft plant - that is still one more than OTL (where none was set up) Plus the POD is quite far back - allowing more leeway for Axis China to industrialize and rearm.

I wouldn't be so optimistic ( or is it pessimistic) to say that an Axis China timeline ends with China being invaded!

Here it is

1920: Frustrations and Tensions

January:

Chiang is ambushed as he rides during a military exercise with his troops. Although he manages to escape this initial attempt on his life, Chen Jiongming's troops fire on him as he attempts to make his way back. He flees towards the North - a wanted man in the South.

The attacks on Chiang are attributed as "bandit-attacks" and he is presumed dead. Under severe pressure - Sun Yat-Sen agrees to make Chen Jiongming 'Extraordinary General of the Kuomintang' but refuses to name him commander of the National Revolutionary Army - assuming command of Chiang's 10,000 strong army.

February - April:

Chiang makes decides to pay a visit to his family before taking refuge in Shanghai. He travels anonymously - discarding anything which might distinguish him from the many other soldiers wandering around.

Sun continues to train the NRA and purchase arms.

May:

Chiang arrives in Shanghai after spending a few weeks in his home village. He arrives in time to see May Fourth Protests by students and labour unions which are violently suppressed by Beiyang Government troops who do not wish to see a repeat of last year's incidents.

In Guangzhou - a general strike called by the KMT Left shouts slogans such as " We Know The Truth" " Down with Warlordism" and " Free Chiang" this is brutally repressed and one of the ringleaders - Wang Jingwei flees to Shanghai.

June - December:

Chiang and Wang plot revenge in Shanghai while Sun and Chen continue their power struggles in Guangzhou. Their powers are at a balance - Chen commands the support of much of the provinces' warlords who fear an erosion of their power and industrialists who fear the KMT for their 'revolutionism' and 'leftist tendencies.'

While in Shanghai - Chiang begins to court Soong May-ling the daughter of Charlie Soong. Although May-ling is several years the junior of Chiang, May-ling falls in love with Chiang and the two begin an illicit love affair.

1921 - The Return of the General and the Unionist

January - April:

Chiang and Wang continue to plot and prepare. Contact is established with Sun who is made aware that Chiang is still alive. Plans are hatched for May 4 - A general strike will paralyze Chen Jiongming's command while NRA troops arrest and detain the major warlords. Chen Jiongming is to be executed after his surrender is recorded.

However - premature Skirmishes begin to break out between NRA troops and Warlords troops around Guangdong. Tension builds up as there is the air is thick with expectation.

May:

Guangdon explodes - many provincial centres are up in arms. The National Revolutionary Army easily brushes aside much of the 'warlord rabble.' Chiang and Wang ride back triumphantly into Guangzhou greeted by cheering trade unionists carrying red banners and NRA troops who welcome back their General.

Demonstrations break out all across China - they are savagely repressed, in some cases with the help of Japanese and other foreign troops. Noteworthy incidents such as the "Tsingdao Massacre" where Japanese marines fire onto a crowd of striking unionists. Reports of casualties vary wildly with some as low as 30 and some as high as 3000 civilian casualties. Nontheless events like these continue to discredit the Beiyang government - which is increasingly becoming seen as the tool of foreigners.

June:

The Nationalists fully assert their control over Guangdong province with the remaining pockets of resistance crushed. Warlords are given 2 choices - die or unconditionally surrender. Most decide to surrender rather than fight a hopeless resistance. Warlords are treated according to how well they behaved - if a warlord was known to be corrupt or a close associate of the Chen Jiongming regime they would be executed immediately. If a warlord was known to hold progressive views or were enemies of Chen they would be coopted. However, Chen Jiongming manages to escape to the neighbouring Guangxi province

The Warlord troops however are folded into the National Revolutionary Army which swells from a puny 10,000 to nearly over 200,000 troops. Many of these troops have no rifles, uniforms or any organization. Sun and Chiang realize that the task of Army reorganization is bigger than both can handle and make preparations to start a military academy. Both men also draw up plans for army reorganization and modernization such as the construction of a centralized arsenal in Guangzhou to facilitate the standardization of equipment. Even more ambitious are the plans to create a National Revolutionary Air Force and a National Revolutionary Navy.

July - December:

The dreaming and planning of Chiang and Sun are bought to an abrupt end by reports that Chen Jiongming, along with the Guanxi province warlords were preparing a military expedition to Guangdong. Chiang decides to prioritize training and equipment for the National Revolutionary Navy for the short-term with the original National Revolutionary Army core of 10,000 serving as a 'model' for the rest of the expanded army. In practice the original National Revolutionary Army is taken apart and broken into brigades which is attached to the new divisions.

While this does ensure that every division is at least marginally effective - it effectively dilutes a once "elite" force. A 'western expedition' is planned for January to test out the new National Revolutionary Army

Next Update: 1922 - The Western Expedition

Feedback and comments welcome as always (in fact solicited even!)

 

[Hendryk]

Even if the Germans successfully manage to set up one aircraft plant - that is still one more than OTL (where none was set up) Plus the POD is quite far back - allowing more leeway for Axis China to industrialize and rearm.

Well, actually there was some small-scale domestic aircraft production in the Republic of China in OTL. Apart from Yang Xiangyi's airplane Rosamund (named after Song Qingling's Western nickname) assembled in 1923, there was the Naval Air Establishment, which produced a handful of seaplanes from 1918, and the Liuchow Mechanical and Aircraft Factory, which designed the Liuchow Kwangsi Type 3 in 1937. But your wider point stands.

While in Shanghai - Chiang begins to court Soong May-ling the daughter of Charlie Soong. Although May-ling is several years the junior of Chiang, May-ling falls in love with Chiang and the two begin an illicit love affair.

I don't think it would work that way. There wasn't much passion between Jiang Jieshi and Song Meiling in OTL, theirs was a marriage of reason, prompted by political ambition on both sides. Plus the Songs required Jiang to divorce his previous wife, Mao Fumei, and to convert to Christianity. I don't see the two of them jumping into the sack just like that.

 

[CCA]

Well, actually there was some small-scale domestic aircraft production in the Republic of China in OTL. Apart from Yang Xiangyi's airplane Rosamund (named after Song Qingling's Western nickname) assembled in 1923, there was the Naval Air Establishment, which produced a handful of seaplanes from 1918, and the Liuchow Mechanical and Aircraft Factory, which designed the Liuchow Kwangsi Type 3 in 1937. But your wider point stands.


I don't think it would work that way. There wasn't much passion between Jiang Jieshi and Song Meiling in OTL, theirs was a marriage of reason, prompted by political ambition on both sides. Plus the Songs required Jiang to divorce his previous wife, Mao Fumei, and to convert to Christianity. I don't see the two of them jumping into the sack just like that.

'

Thanks for the info about Chinese aviation - that sure will be useful later.

Hmm you raise a very valid point about Soong Meiling. But ITTL several things are different:

(1) I think the biggest is that Chiang isn't some nobody - ITTL he's the confirmed head of the KMT, is famous for being one of the leaders of the May Fourth Movement, he's an up and commer.

YOu're right in that it still might not be enough to cause a full blown love affair though.

 

[Paul MacQ]

Well written and I am liking what you have done so far,

And Interesting regarding Chinese Aircraft Industry.

Germany between 1921-1922 halted aircraft Production and at a time when they were producing some of the most advanced aircraft in the world. Including one China would later use as a converted light Bomber OTL

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junkers_F13

Something like a assembly plant for this aircraft,( Components made in Germany and assembled in China) as a way for the Germans to circumvent the Treaty limitations might be useful. Several Aircraft Companies in third world countries started there aero industries this way. Main point giving experience and a need for Infrastructure but starting very small.

Later on China can start building Spares and then later whole aircraft, Now Junkers in 1920s and early 1930 was a lead in Metal Aircraft structure.

As a side note I am sure Junkers would have blueprints for something like the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junkers_J_9 still around. Always thought that aircraft a low wing Monoplane add a 300-400 hp class engine would be very competitive in the 1920s.

I an imagine Hugo Junkers " What we are not supplying Fighters to Chinese. we are selling fast sport plane....components. Your telling me they are putting guns on them. Well who would have thought such a thing " Might be bit of a stretch he was a known Pacifist.

Use some Chinese company as a front, all major components made in Germany for assembly at an airfield in China , starting of a larger aircraft industry, with at least structurally the some of the most advanced aircraft in the world.

Advantage with the Junkers company it is very well connected in the Old industrialists in Germany.

 

[CCA]

Thanks to everyone for their feedback and comments. The development of the Chinse Army Air Corps is definitely a fascinating one that will merit it's own special update.

1922 - The Western Expedition

January - May:

Chiang launches the "Western Expedition." The goal is to utterly destroy Chen Jiongming's forces and bring the Guangxi province into the control of the KMT. Chiang sets out with 50,000 National Revolutionary Army troops - the troops selected are those with the highest training, best equipment and well-motivated. Facing against him are 100,000 troops of mostly inferior quality.

Chiang's plan is to advance quickly along the Xi River and then thrust south towards Nanning - relying on the warlord's lack of cohesion and coordination to take the city and then defeat with the rest one by one.

This scheme succeeds briliantly, Nanning falls in late February with minimal casualties as many warlord troops prefer to either surrender or run to the hills to become bandits rather than die facing a better organized and equiped foe. Organized resistance is finished by early March and

Ever elusive - Chen Jiongming takes refuge in Yunnan province - a lawless area controlled by rival gangs of bandits, warlords and smugglers. It is a focal point for smuggling contraband such as opium. It's relative isolation is the result of the mountainous terrain and the poor infrastructure. Chiang wants to prepare his troops for a campaign to 'restore law and order' and curb 'warlordism and banditry.

In Guangzhou - Sun continues to purchase arms and train the remaining troops. He sends a small delegation led by Wang Jingwei to cultivate a relationship with the Soviet Union. This small delegation is present at the 10th Congress of the Russian Communist Party. This gesture is reciprocated by the arrival of a few advisors. However they are limited in number as the Russian Civil War is still unfinished.

May:

While preparing his troops for the "Western Bandit Extermination Campaign" Chiang takes a break from the front and speaks at several May Fourth demonstrations. At a speech in Guangzhou to dockside workers he lays out his belief that the "Warlords are a disease of the heart" and that China will never be "healthy" until the "endemic warlordism and banditry are cut out."

July - December:

Chiang launches the "Western Bandit Extermination Campaign" because of the general lawlessness of the Yunnan province the operationn is more akin to a policing operation than a military one. The only organized resistance comes from Chen Jiongming's exhausted troops in Kunming. Chen Jiongming's body is found amongst the ruins of the city.

The harsh terrain is the main obstacle preventing the full "pacification" of Yunnan province until late December. Even afterwards the Kuomintang cannot fully control all areas. Despite this, the revenues from placing a 'special levy' on the importation of Opium will be a major source of income.

Feedback and comments welcomed (please?)

Tommorow's Update: 1923 - The Year of Consolidation

 

[CCA]

1923 - The Year of Consolidation

After having successfully pacified Yunnan and Guanxi province in the preceeding year - the Kuomintang found itself in control of 3 provinces in the South. This year would be marked as the year of consolidation as the Kuomintang secured their rule. This year was marked by a burst of frentic activity and achievement by the Kuomintang such as the establishment of the Whampoa Military Academy, the "Re-proclamation" of the Republic of China and the establishment of a centralized Arsenal system for the National Revolutionary Army. All these steps served to bolster the strenght of the Kuomintang and

The Establishment of the Whampoa Military Academy

Chiang returns to Guangdong and establishes the Whampoa Military Academy. Officers currently serving in the National Revolutionary Army are encouraged to enroll for 'refersher courses.'

The basic curriculum is an intensive 6 month course designed primarily to teach basic infantry tactics and leadership with emphasis being placed on front-line leadership. Cadets who have successfully completed the course are given the starting rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Promising graduates of the basic curriculum are encouraged to take part in the 'advanced' classes which teach logistics and other specialized courses (artillery, aviation, signalling, etc.) This training takes an additional 1 year of training and graduates start out with the rank of "Captain." The most promising are taken to 'expert' level courses with an additional 2 years of schooling graduating with the rank of Colonel. Compulsory 'political' education classes are also present at every level.

The Academy is staffed by an odd combination of native Chinese veterans from the various NRA expeditions, Soviet advisors, expatriate German troops and White Russian emigres. By the end of the year there are a number of prominent instructors such as Erich Von Ludendorf (encouraged to go to China after participating in the failed Beer Hall Putsch started by Chiang's friend Hitler) and Vasily Blucher ("Galen")

The Academy is significant in that it symbolizes Chiang's desire to have a professionally trained army. Militarily it Politically the Academy was split into political lines with the "Right" gravitating towards Ludendorf and Chiang and the "Left" gravitating towards Galen and the other soviet advisers.

The 'Re-proclamation' of the Republic of China

On the 4th anniversary of May Fourth, President Sun Yat-Sen asserts the legitemacy of his government and calls for diplomatic recognition for the 'genuine, popular and legitimate' Chinese Government based in Guangzhou. He denounces the Beiyang governments as a pack of 'rabid warlords' and asserts the Kuomintang's control over "all of China."

With this proclamation Sun issues a series 'guiding documents' where he outlines his desire that China be govered according to the 'Three Principles of the People'

The First Principle of Mínzú
The principle of 'Minzu' means "Government of the (Chinese) People." In this principle Sun lays out his belief that China must develop a form of 'civic nationalism' to unite China rather than 'ethnic-nationalism.' Sun also makes vague references to 'guarding China's sovereignty' - however he takes care not to openly antagonize the western powers.

The Second Principle of Minquan
Translates as 'Government by the People." Sun lays out is belief that the people should have 'rights' to 'representation,' through an elected National Assembly.

The Third Principle of Minsheng
Translated as the 'People's Welfare'. Sun believed that Chinese people deserved a basic (high) standard of living through government attempts at improving social welfare. Under this principle a land reform programme would be initiated and schools and hospitals funded.

Although the foreign reception was mostly muted with only the Soviet Union, Germany and Italy recognizing Sun Yat-Sen's governent by the end of the year, the implications for the future of China is enormous. The Kuomintang are now seen as the leading force by Chinese people to unite the country.

Continued Military Reforms

The year 1923 saw a further acceleration of the military reforms. Besides the foundation of The Whampoa Military Academy, a field hospital system was designed and an arsenal established in Guangzhou.

Equipment standardization is proceeding smoothly with the Guangzhou Arsenal purchasing and manufacturing modified local copies of the German Gewher 88. The Chinese model is known as "Type 88" or even sometimes the "Guangzhou 88." This model is modified to have an integral cover to prevent dust and grime from entering the exit point at the bottom of the barel and an integral bayonet receiver. Although there are initial defects with the early Guangzhou 88's falling apart after one shot - the arrival of Ludendorf and other military experts fixes the design flaws. This modified version becomes famous for it's ruggedness and reliability becoming adopted as the standard service rifle of the National Revolutionary Army and was still in active service as late as 1970.

The Guangzhou arsenal also starts producing a standard light machine gun a modified version of the french Chauchat known as the Type 1 Light Machine Gun or the "Guanzhou Light Machine Gun." The modified version corrects the glaring flaws of the original french version with covers for it's magazine and a 50 round magazine firing the 7.92 x 57mm Chinese Standard Ammunition. Despite this the weapon still suffers from excessive recoil and grime and dust continue to affect the weapon. However the light machine gun has the advantage of being easily manufactured which results in it's adoption as the standard light machine gun for the National Revolutionary Army.

The standardization of a light-machine gun and a service rifle was a significant achievement for the Guangzhou Arsenal - one that would take a full year to complete.

Next Update 1924 - Continued Reforms

 

[CCA]

1923 - The Year of Consolidation

After having successfully pacified Yunnan and Guanxi province in the preceeding year - the Kuomintang found itself in control of 3 provinces in the South. This year would be marked as the year of consolidation as the Kuomintang secured their rule. This year was marked by a burst of frentic activity and achievement by the Kuomintang such as the establishment of the Whampoa Military Academy, the "Re-proclamation" of the Republic of China and the establishment of a centralized Arsenal system for the National Revolutionary Army. All these steps served to bolster the strenght of the Kuomintang and

The Establishment of the Whampoa Military Academy

Chiang returns to Guangdong and establishes the Whampoa Military Academy. Officers currently serving in the National Revolutionary Army are encouraged to enroll for 'refersher courses.'

The basic curriculum is an intensive 6 month course designed primarily to teach basic infantry tactics and leadership with emphasis being placed on front-line leadership. Cadets who have successfully completed the course are given the starting rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Promising graduates of the basic curriculum are encouraged to take part in the 'advanced' classes which teach logistics and other specialized courses (artillery, aviation, signalling, etc.) This training takes an additional 1 year of training and graduates start out with the rank of "Captain." The most promising are taken to 'expert' level courses with an additional 2 years of schooling graduating with the rank of Colonel. Compulsory 'political' education classes are also present at every level.

The Academy is staffed by an odd combination of native Chinese veterans from the various NRA expeditions, Soviet advisors, expatriate German troops and White Russian emigres. By the end of the year there are a number of prominent instructors such as Erich Von Ludendorf (encouraged to go to China after participating in the failed Beer Hall Putsch started by Chiang's friend Hitler) and Vasily Blucher ("Galen")

The Academy is significant in that it symbolizes Chiang's desire to have a professionally trained army. Militarily it Politically the Academy was split into political lines with the "Right" gravitating towards Ludendorf and Chiang and the "Left" gravitating towards Galen and the other soviet advisers.

The 'Re-proclamation' of the Republic of China

On the 4th anniversary of May Fourth, President Sun Yat-Sen asserts the legitemacy of his government and calls for diplomatic recognition for the 'genuine, popular and legitimate' Chinese Government based in Guangzhou. He denounces the Beiyang governments as a pack of 'rabid warlords' and asserts the Kuomintang's control over "all of China."

With this proclamation Sun issues a series 'guiding documents' where he outlines his desire that China be govered according to the 'Three Principles of the People'

The First Principle of Mínzú
The principle of 'Minzu' means "Government of the (Chinese) People." In this principle Sun lays out his belief that China must develop a form of 'civic nationalism' to unite China rather than 'ethnic-nationalism.' Sun also makes vague references to 'guarding China's sovereignty' - however he takes care not to openly antagonize the western powers.

The Second Principle of Minquan
Translates as 'Government by the People." Sun lays out is belief that the people should have 'rights' to 'representation,' through an elected National Assembly.

The Third Principle of Minsheng
Translated as the 'People's Welfare'. Sun believed that Chinese people deserved a basic (high) standard of living through government attempts at improving social welfare. Under this principle a land reform programme would be initiated and schools and hospitals funded.

Although the foreign reception was mostly muted with only the Soviet Union, Germany and Italy recognizing Sun Yat-Sen's governent by the end of the year, the implications for the future of China is enormous. The Kuomintang are now seen as the leading force by Chinese people to unite the country.

Continued Military Reforms

The year 1923 saw a further acceleration of the military reforms. Besides the foundation of The Whampoa Military Academy, a field hospital system was designed and an arsenal established in Guangzhou.

Equipment standardization is proceeding smoothly with the Guangzhou Arsenal purchasing and manufacturing modified local copies of the German Gewher 88. The Chinese model is known as "Type 88" or even sometimes the "Guangzhou 88." This model is modified to have an integral cover to prevent dust and grime from entering the exit point at the bottom of the barel and an integral bayonet receiver. Although there are initial defects with the early Guangzhou 88's falling apart after one shot - the arrival of Ludendorf and other military experts fixes the design flaws. This modified version becomes famous for it's ruggedness and reliability becoming adopted as the standard service rifle of the National Revolutionary Army and was still in active service as late as 1970.

The Guangzhou arsenal also starts producing a standard light machine gun a modified version of the french Chauchat known as the Type 1 Light Machine Gun or the "Guanzhou Light Machine Gun." The modified version corrects the glaring flaws of the original french version with covers for it's magazine and a 50 round magazine firing the 7.92 x 57mm Chinese Standard Ammunition. Despite this the weapon still suffers from excessive recoil and grime and dust continue to affect the weapon. However the light machine gun has the advantage of being easily manufactured which results in it's adoption as the standard light machine gun for the National Revolutionary Army.

The standardization of a light-machine gun and a service rifle was a significant achievement for the Guangzhou Arsenal - one that would take a full year to complete.

Next Update 1924 - Continued Reforms (Part Two)

 

[Paul MacQ]

You had to pick the damn Chauchat of all guns.

There is cheap and nasty that works, Then again there is sometimes just nasty.

the Chauchat had just so many problems me see how to fix that piece of hardware ,,

Throw away the mag first , I see you have done that well done . * German 50 round snail drum probably okish, normally side mounted but the Chauchat was feed from below.

Now lets see Umm needs a new feed system, Probably related to new Mag, being picked.

Need to fix Gas cylinder foiling,

Heavier Barrel if no Barrel change option. more of a problem with firing discipline to not over heat. Big issue.

Allot of work ( ie replacing most of what made that gun a Chauchat)

Recommends going with a Browning Bar.
http://world.guns.ru/machine/mg36-e.htm

BAR Add a Snail drum Mag and a heavier changeable Barrel one light MG

Other than a Tech opinion (and it is that Chauchat would never be my starting point for a even average LMG) Well written and very interesting and most enjoyable. Is following closely.

 

[ComradeTovarich]

I second Paul MacQ in choosing the BAR over the Chauchat. The latter is just a piece of crap. Period.

One more thing... Try not to double post. As soon as you see a double post, delete the extra unnecessary one.

Other than that, I like where this is going. Keep it up

 

[Onkel Willie]

Nice to see this timeline is still going.

 

[CCA]

Thanks to everyone for their kind comments and feedback.

I think the Chauchat is realistically the best option for the Nationalist Republic of China to manufacture. Yes it's a nasty gun that barely works but it's just about the right level of manufacturing capability for an arsenal that just started. Keep in mind that Chiang has about 200,000 - 400,000 troops to outfit - getting any sort of light machine gun is an achievement. It's a nasty gun yes - but it's better than having no light machine gun.

We also have to realize that the main factor affecting the performance of KMT troops is not equipment (although that does help) but training, morale and logistics. OTL's Nationalist troops were poorly fed and poorly-led with divisions frequently disintegrating after being defeat. ITTL Chiang's experience in the Western Front as a german grunt leads him to make reforms that makes life for Nationalist soldiers at least bareable (if barely)

1924 - Steam. Wind. Iron - The 2nd Year of Consolidation

1924 was another year of consolidation and achievement for the Kuomintang government in South China. In the public sphere land reform programme was attempted, infrastructure constructed, a system of tax reform implemented and a National Assembly elected. To cap it all off KMT diplomats managed to achieve recognition for Sun's regime from an unlikely source. In the military field a Nationalist Navy founded and a National Revolutionary Army Air Force were established.

Public Sphere Reforms

A comprehensive programme of reform was spearheaded by T.V Soong, the ambitious and talented Minister of Finance who followed in his father's footsteps. The late 'Charlie' Soong who had passed away the previous year. An ambitious programme of rent reductions, KMT backed guarantees of tenure security and the formation of village cooperatives revolutionized the country side. Complementing this ambitious package was an education reform programme and a reform of the tax system. The former would secure middle and rural backing for the already broad based Kuomintang, the latter would exploit the backing by turning it into hard dollars.

This would take the form of a land tax levied on villages with the responsibility of collection falling on the local KMT cadres (who also provided the base for the tenure security and education programme - in this way the villagers could see that they were getting 'value for money.' In that their taxes were actively contributing to their well-being.) In the cities - a land tax was considered impractical so an income tax and import duties were levied. Complemeting this package was a small fixed sales tax (5%)

Major infrastructure projects were also initiated with the emphasis placed of constructing and expanding the mineral infrastructure in Yunnan and an adequate transport to export them.

The commulative effects of these reforms was to ensure that the Kuomintang government had a firm foundation and finally had a secure income stream. Combined with significant donations from the Overseas Chinese Community the government's books reached a near-balance in 1924 despite the major expenditures.

The Italian government under new management by one Bennito Mussolini also recognized the Guangzhou government as the rightful government of China.

The foundation of the Nationalist Navy

The year 1924 also saw the foundation of the Nationalist Navy. The 'navy' consisted of purchased merchant steam ships hastilly outfitted with a field gun. The largest and most well-armed ship in the Nationalist Navy was the 'Guangjia' composite cruiser built during Qing times. It was a 1300 ton cruiser with four 5 inch Krupp breechloaders and one 6 inch breech loader.
A naval curriculum was added at the Whampoa military academy in true Whampoa fashion it was taught by a combination of professional German instructors, maverick white russian emigres and proselytizing Soviet advisors.

The foundation of the National Revolutionary Army Air Force

The leading pioneer of the National Revolutionary Army Air Force was undoubtedly "Feng Ru" known as the 'Father of Chinese Aviation.' Miraculously escaping from a plane crash he suffered in 1912 - Feng Ru quickly recovered offering his service to Sun Yat-Sen. For many years he had been attempting to secure funding from the Nationalist Government but had been thwarted because of other priorities. In 1924 he was authorized to lead an official expedetion to Europe to purchase aircraft and licenses for the Air Force. He would return in 1925 after taking a year to visit and speak to Italian, German, French, English and even Soviet aircraft manufacturers.

Next update: 1925 The third year of Consolidation