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

[CCA]

The Vulture - Thanks heaps! I also always look forward to updates of your TL. I believe Hendryk has also responded to the budhist thing (to be honest I'm not really well versed in Chinese religions.

Nivek - Thanks heaps for all your comments so far Nivek. A belated Happy Holidays to you too! I hope yours went well - sorry for the lack of updates during the holidays. I've been preoccupied with other matters. As for Chiang Wei-Kuo? He's been sent to Germany and is under the care of "Uncle Adolf." "Uncle Adolf" being much too busy with political matters has entrusted care of little Wei-Kuo to his neice Geli Raubel... Spoiler: They get married later on in an epic political wrdding that symbolizes the Sino-German Alliance. Think big wedding. As in one of the biggest of the century.
Hendryk - Oh yes. It was obviously an 'accident' though As this is a AH TL, expect "Zeppelin Crashes" in the future.r on.

scourge - Thanks scrooge. Well Hitler and Chiang are in constant contact and Chiang is always in pains to reassure his German friend that he's just using "the commies." After all, Hitler can't really complain too loudly seeing as the Nazi's and Commies are working together to bring down the Weimer Republic at this stage...

OKH_1946 - he could sucker punch the commies but why? They're not a threat. Hopefully this update will deliver the sucker punching you've been craving

Wyragen-TXRG4P - In a word, no The civilian government is pretty much gone by the end of the year. They're in charge in name only...

- Yep, events in Germany procede as IOTL except for some very minor thing which will become important later... But German Politics still goes as IOTL.

Brancaleone - They have the capacity to send a small expeditionary force - but probably not a million men. But you have to remember that these two people were pretty much psychologically crushed into capitulation ala Eduard Benes 1938.

DuQuense - Well it won't be this year - maybe next year


"The Japanese and foreigners are a disease of the skin, the criminals are a disease of the heart."

- Chiang Kai-Shek

1932: The Night of the Long Knives

The Night of the Long Knives (Chinese: yè cháng dāo)) was a political purge that took place in China between May 4 and May 30 1932, when the Kuomintang, the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics attempted to carry out an series of political executions which later balooned into a military operation involving the cooperation of the National Revolutionary Army, the National Revolutionary Navy and the National Revolutionary Air Force. Most of those killed were members of the "Green Gang" and the "Principled Opposition" - a criminal syndicate and a political faction within the Kuomintang headed by Du Yuesheng.

The reasons why Chiang moved against Du Yuesheng today are still disputed. Some historians point to an attempted assasination attempt on February 6 1932 on Chiang and his family which was linked to Du as the catalyst for the event.(1) Some argue that Du Yuesheng's successful attempt to wrest control of the Opium Trade from the KMT as the major motivation. Others point to Du Yuesheng's steadily growing power and conclude that the purge was 'inevitable' and a small minority of historians argue that the Night of the Long Knives should be seen as a "counter-putsch" rather than a political purge. Nevertheless the independence of Du Yusheng and his numerous links with other opposition figures in China, his money, control of the Chinese underworld and high-level contacts with foreigners meant that Du was widely recognized as the de-facto "Opposition Leader" in KMT China. Chiang also used the purge as a way of squeezing furthering the KMT's land reform programme to remove members of the rural gentry who were opposing reform.

At least 14000 people were killed or 'disappeared' during the Night of the Long Knives and in the following period of civil conflict which engulfed China. Most of the killings were carried out by party cadres of the Kuomintang, the National Revolutionary Army and the Bureau of Statistics and Investigation, the regime's secret police. The purge strengthened Chiang's control over China and the grip of the Kuomintang on the country.

Background to the Knight of the Long Knives

Chiang Kai-Shek and Du Yuesheng had long had an outstanding feud which started with Du 'kidnapping' Chiang's bride Soong Meiling on their wedding night on 1929 had angered Chiang to the point where he had 'vowed revenge' on Du. An assasination attempt on February 6 1932 on Chiang and his family including Soong Meiling, Chiang Ching-Kuo (who was visiting from his studies in the Soviet Union) and Chiang Wei-Kuo (who was visiting from his studies in Germany) was attributed to Du Yuesheng.

Du Yuesheng's accumulation of money, power and prestige, often as the expense of Chiang was reflected in his successful wresting of control of the very lucrative Opium Trade (economic historians estimate that between 25-50% of China's revenues came from taxes, customs and other economic activities derived from the Opium Trade) and in Du's control of 30% of party delegates in the 1931 Party Congress.

As a result of Du's growing successes and catalyzed by the assasination attempt, Chiang began to plot for a way to eliminate Du and the threat he posed once and for all. Chiang placed Dai Li and the Bureau of Investigations and Statistics in overall charge of a 'decapitation operation' that would eliminate the threat of the Green Gang and Du Yuesheng and would restore KMT control over all the Opium Trade.

The 'Decapitation Operation' was planned for May 4 1932 where it was expected that Du and his associates would be busy partying and be quickly apprehended, caught unawares. Unfortunately this was not to be.

The Failed Purge

The operation itself would be conducted in utmost secrecy. Bureau agents and KMT cadres all over China would move quickly to arrest leading members of the Green Gang and Du's friends and associates on the evening of May 4. Du however, had other plans.

A last minute tip from an informant had allowed Du to prepare his defences, although he could not alert his associates outside of his province for fear of discovery - he could nontheless take steps to assert his control over his province. On the afternoon of May 4 1932, KMT party offices, labour union buildings and other "Pro-Chiang" elements all over Jiangsu were attacked by the Provincial Militia and the "Green Guard" - Du's elite cadre of professional troops. The effects were devastating on the Jiangsu effort, Nanking itself came under attack and Chiang's house was besieged for 24 hours. The Bureau of Investigation and Statistics Building came under attack, the phone lines were cut.

Military Operation

On the morning of May 5 it had seemed like it was the decapitators that had become decapitated. Although all over China the Night of the Long Knives had succeeded in purging Du's forces, Du's men had secured Jiangsu except for a few isolated areas where KMT and Labour unions were still fighting hard. A notable example is in the Shanghai dockyard area where KMT and Labour troops would hold out until relieved in May 24.

The Feng Ru V was instrumental to the blockade effort at Shanghai.


Communication was restored in May 6 and Chiang was quick to move into action. In order to prevent Du from escaping Chiang was declared to be a 'quarantined area' and the National Revolutionary Air Force and National Revolutionary Navy blockaded Shanghai - no ships or air planes were permitted to enter Shanghai - on pain of death. Feng Ru's planes would sortie above the city in groups of 100-200, not only enforcing the blockade but informing the western nations and Japan of Chinese Military capability in order to discourage thoughts of an 'expedition.' Although the Chinese Navy was less impressive, the light cruiser Ning Hai was the cornerstone of the blockade effort and the majority of the blockade fleet, converted trawlers with a mounted 75mm artillery gun inspired pity, rather than awe.

Members of the Assault Army which was ordered to take back Shanghai.

Chiang also personally took command of an "Assault Army" consisting of all ten "Assault Divisions" which was was ordered to take back Shanghai where heavy fighting was still raging between KMT party cadres, unionists against the Green Guard and the Provincial Militia. The Assault Army, consisting of ten divisions of ten thousand men were the lavishly armed and equiped elite of the regime. They easily brushed past even the much vaunted "Green Guards" and were at the outskirts of Shanghai by May 14. There, the businessmen and merchants of the city, although initially ambivalent, even mildly supportive of Du's ambitions began to turn on Du. A "Merchant Protection Army" suddenly emerged in the commercial district of Shanghai, cutting communications between the dock area and the front. Green Guard morale plummeted, as did that of the provincial militia, desertion began to increase as Chiang's "Assault Army" pushed further into the city. Caught between the Merchant Protection Army, Chiang's Assault Army and Labour Union and KMT Militias, Du's troops disintegrated. By May 30 the Battle for Shanghai was over. Du Yuesheng was found cowering in the basement of his Shanghai villa. By Chiang's personal orders he was hung from a meathook in his basement and the villa burnt down. Casualties on both sides were light, the Assault Army suffered about 5,000 incapacitated while Du's forces incurred about 8,000 cassualties with about 1,000 deaths from KMT/Labour Union/ Merchant Protection Army casualties.

The Aftermath
Although the Night of the Long Knives had failed to 'decapitate' the Green Gang leadership in one fatal blow. Chiang's quick, decisive action at Shanghai had turned a disaster into a triumph. Chiang has succeeded in asserting Chinese sovereignty over Shanghai. The Western Democracies dithered and debated. By the time a "Leage of Nations" conference could be arranged for June 14, the battle and the blockade was long over.

Internationally, the Night of the Long Knives increased the wedge between the western democracies and China. The civilian government in Tokyo was dealt a death blow by their failure to act with the Kwangtung Army hereafter deciding to ignore any orders of the Tokyo government.

Domestically, the Night of the Long Knives consolidated Chiang's power as never before. Not only was his greatest enemy and nemesis dispatched, autonomist governors were also removed, the Opium Trade was bought back under official control and his personal prestige had been greatly enhanced by the battle.

An example of the Bronze cermonial dagger

Chiang reacted to the news magnanimously, announcing the creation of a new award: The "Knight of the Long Knife." All who had taken part in either the purges of May 4 or the subsequent military actions were to be made "Knights of the Long Knife." The award had four classes, the 'bronze knife' which was the basic award given to everyone who participated with the operation in anyway (over 100,000 recepients in 1932, later balooning to 100,000,000 recepients - leading to the disparaging term "tin knife" (!!!) awardees were given a ceremonial bronze dagger and a bronze badge with a bronze knife in the centre with a wreath on the side. The 'silver knife' was awarded to those who showed 'commendable valor' in the operation, mostly awarded to members of the Assault Army and those who had taken part of the physical fighting or civilians who played an instrumental role in the purges - for example, the wife of a local party official near Hankou - Liu Han was awarded the Silver Knife for 'ably aiding Party boss Yi Min (her husband) in the destruction of corrupt elements' The silver knife had a simple inscription "my loyalty is my honour," the silver badge was a small silver knife with the KMT Blue Sky and White Sun in the middle. Recepients who were awarded the Sliver Knife posthumously had their 'deceased relative' payment doubled to their families. The Silver Knife had about 15,000 recepients. The Gold Knife was awarded to those who showed either 'exemplary bravery in the face of danger' or 'outstanding leadership in the purging of corrupt elements of society.' It was mostly awarded to leading figures of the KMT - Yi Min, a village apothecary who was also the party Yamen for his village near Hankou who 'purged' the mayor of Hankou who had declared for Du received the gold knife. The Gold Knife was a gold dagger with a solid gold blade and a silver handle and the gold badge was a gold knife with the White Sun inlaid in silver in the middle. The gold knife had 1,000 recepients. The most prestigious award was the "Diamond Knife" which was award to an exclusive set - with only 100 being awarded. Recepients included Chiang Kai-Shek, Dai Li, Feng Ru and other architects of the Night.

Feedback and comments always greatfully received/solicited. Thanks for all the feedback/comments so far!

 

[CCA]

Nivek - Thanks Nivek - and a very happy new year to you and your family too! There's no reason why they can't also call it the "Night of the Long Knives" it's not like the Chinese have a patent on it.

As for the spoiler - well sure she's a bit older but so what They love each other and that's the main thing. Their budding friendship is the only thing that butterflies away Geli's suicide. Hopefully this update will flesh out the rise of the Nazis ITL which is helped a bit by Chiang's support.

Wyragen-TXRG4P - Thanks for reading! And that is exactly what happens in this update

Hendryk - Thanks for reading! Exit Big Eared Du - Enter T.V Soong (well in this update)

LittleSpeer - Thank you for your support - Rest assured China will not go communist - not while Chiang lives anyway.

Drizzt - And there may very well be....

Dan Reilly The Great - Thanks Dan! This update should hopefully flesh out the international politics aspect of things...

OKH_1946 - I've already replied to some of your points in a PM.

1. I haven't quite worked out how the communists will be dealt with. Chiang can use them as a weapon and a convenient tool. Spoiler : some of them will be rotting in trenches outside of Madrid *Spoiler

2. Soong Meiling studied English Literature in America - she suggests the name. Soong is definitely in Chiang's inner circle ITL.

3. Wouldn't you have insecurity issues if a drug lord kidnapped your fiancee on the night of your wedding

4. Not just Opium...

5. Spoiler: A militarist Japan will definitely be on the side of the Entete in the Second Great War.

6. Nah, Knight of the Long Knife awards are analogous to the Nazi membership awards and badges - except for the Kuomintang! The dagger thing was a pretty obvious SS reference (or so I thought)

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1933 - A tale of Three Friendships

With his domestic foes cowed and vanquished and his foreign enemies reeling in economic and political crisis Chiang in 1933 was the undisputed master of China. With his home base secure, Chiang began to turn his attention overseas.

Chiang's foreign policy - and by extension - China's foreign policy essentially revolved around the question of unification. Chiang would use every weapon at his disposal, make every promise, charm any person and befriend any country as long as China was once more unified. The most immediate concern was Manchuria. As long as the Anglo-Japanese alliance held firm - there could be no question of attempting to liberate Manchuria, although the National Revolutionary Army could probably defeat the Manchurian Army, China would then be subjected to a crippling blockade. The Anglo-Japanese-French diplomatic block was too firm to attempt to undermine - therefore Chiang had to look for allies overseas in an attempt to escape the Anglo-Japanese-French 'encirclement.'

The Sino-German Treaty of Friendship

Both Hitler and Hindenburg had close relationships with Chiang Kai-shek.

The most obvious choice was Germany. Chiang's close friendship with Adolf Hitler - who had been appointed Chancellor in 1933 and close relationship with Hindenburg - who was president - was a great and obvious springboard. A state visit which was arranged in July was a great success - Hitler arranged rallies in Chiang and China's honour. Huge screaming crowds of people lined up in Berlin to see the old war-hero. Sino-German cooperation, which had declined since the Treaty of Beijing was once again renewed. The 1933 Treaty of Sino-German Friendship had economic and military implications. German experts and weapons would build railways, develop factories, train Chinese troops and provide advice in return for Chinese silver and Chinese tungsten. German rearnament would begin not in Germany but in China.

Sino-German cooperation would be an important corner stone in the development of both countries and would mark the beginning of the of one of the world's longest alliances. The 1933 Treaty of Friendship is still active today.

The 1933 Treaty of Friendship also had 3 'secret clauses' The first clause was that China and Germany would come to each other's aid if either power was at war with England. The second clause was that China and Germany would come to each other's aid if either was at war with France. The third clause was defensive - if the Soviet Union declared war on either power - the other was obliged to come to their aid. Interestingly - this clause was not valid in an offensive war.

Chinse students studying in Leipzig on a field trip.

The Treaty of Friendship would also have radical effects for the German and Chinese economies. German manufacturers and industries had access to a market that the French and English could only dream of - 400 million Chinese. This - combined with Chinese silver and Hitler's aggressive public works plan paved for a recovery of the German economy - well ahead of many European countries. Chinese industry and agriculture would benefit from German expertise - especially in agricultural production with German chemical pesticides. The Treaty of Friendship also had provisions for 'cultural and scientific exchange' - meaning that tens of thousands of Chinese students were allowed to study in Germany universities. In return - China would provide free accomodation and organize tourist trips for the German Kraft durch Freude (Strenght Through Joy) programme.

Chiang dragged Wang with him to prevent Wang from stirring shit while he was away. Here is Wang getting drunk with some Nazis.


Politically the friendship would also have huge consequences. Hitler's regime was given a big boost in legitimacy as a well respected and powerful leader visited Germany. In China, the pro-German elements of the KMT was strengtened even further - which suited Chiang fine. This was his faction after all. Overall Chiang's visit to Germany in 1933 and the Treaty of Friendship was hugely positive for both nations and would pave the way for the Tripartite Pact in 1940.

Sino-Soviet Friendship

While a little diplomatically unorthodox - the sending of Mao Zedong as the "Personal Envoy of Chiang Kai-shek" yielded results.

While Chiang was away in Berlin, Mao was dispatched to Moscow as Chiang's personal envoy. Chiang instructions to Mao was to "say, do and promise everything - even a communist revolution - as long as you get Stalin's help in getting Manchuria back." To this day it is still a mystery what the two men discussed in Moscow - but whatever they did it was favourable to China. A Sino-Soviet Friendship Treaty and Non-Aggression Pact was signed on August 28 1933 and a secret clause wherein the Soviet Union promised help to the "People's Republic of China to recover their historical lands." Soviet aid was also secured for the construction of a Sino-Soviet railway which would go through Sinkiang to the Soviet Union utilizing much of the old Silk routes and updating them with railways. Many political prisoners from both countries would die constructing the route in conditions of either extreme heat in the Gobi desert or in extreme cold in the mountains of Sinkiang. Stalin also agreed to send 'skilled political prisoners' for 'rehabilitation' in China where their skills would be put to good use. Although the Soviet-Sino relationship was not as close as the Sino-German one - it was still crucially important.

Sino-American Friendship

Soong Meiling with the First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt

While the men were away - Soong Meiling played in America where she was authorized by Chiang to act as his 'personal envoy.' Her fluency in English, her Southern accent and the fact that she had studied in America made her the perfect candidate for this task. She completely charmed her American hosts. American companies were invited to invest in China - to entice them, tarriffs on American goods were slashed (but not to the level of German goods) and trade between the two countries took off. Soong Meiling would be the 'human face' of an otherwise grey regime and she would represent China and Chinese interests to many in America...

Meanwhile - back home

While the big cats were away the mouse played. T.V Soong was effectively the acting President - he made most of the opportunity. T.V Soong oversaw an energetic anti-inflation campaign and introduced new taxes and levies while removing those he saw as wasteful. Politically his "Hundred Days Reform" transformed the quiet accountant who stayed in the background into a force with popular backing. When Chiang returned at the end of the year, T.V Soong had become someone to be reckoned with...

Thanks to everyone for their comment and feedback.

More comment and feedback always welcome/ solicited

 

[CCA]

Hi Everyone,

I had originally done a rather epically long 6 part update but AH.COM swallowd it up. As it is nearly bed time and I'm too demoralized to retype the whole thing again - I will update this every day till I make up the difference.

1934: Dark Clouds and Silver Linings

Part One: The Horst Wessel Affair,
Part Two: Of mice, men and Trotskyists
Part Three: The Duce and The Generalisimo - Sino-Italian Cooperation
Part Four: A brief analysis of foreign military missions
Part Five: "Plan C" The Chinese Naval Arnament Programme.
Part Six: Conclusion + Proper replies to everyone's replies

Before I carry on though, I'd like to extend a special thanks to Nivek, THe Vulture and OKH for their support for the Turtledove Award Thingy. Your loyalty and support will be rewarded by awkwardly written sex scenes featuring characters from this TL. (Check your PM inboxes now.)

Anyway without further ado I give you part one:

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1934: Dark Clouds and Silver Linings

Part One: The Horst Wessel Affair

A defining feature of a totalitarian regimes is their uncanny ability to convince their citizenry that black is white and white is black... To turn today's heroes into tommorow's villains and to turn today's villain into tommorow's heroes... Nowhere is this tendency more amply demonstrated than in the Horst Wessel Affair. A drunkard, phillandering, disgraced and exiled Chinese politician was granted a near mythical status and his long-suffering wife revered as a living saint while the 'criminal' a decorated 'rising star' within the Nazi Regime was turned into the german boogeyman.

- On Totalitarianism, Eric Arthur Blair

Horst Wessel was a rising star until a crime of passion led to his death and the near-destruction of the SA...

To this day the circumstances surrounding the 'murder' of Yi Min, the Chinse apothecary turned politician turned disgraced politician turned 'Jiangsu Special envoy to Germany' (effectively a sinecured position with no responsibilities or power) is still surrounded by uncertainty and murkiness. There is a myriad of competing theories to explain what happened and why they happened. There are so few facts that they inevitable spawn a slew a smogasbord of conspiracy theories.

So what do we definitely know about the "Horst Wessel Affair." These are the undisputed fact: We know that on February 16 Horst Wessel the Berilin Troopleader came back to the flat he shared with his girlfriend Erna Janicke. He found Yi Min and Erna Janicke in flagrante delico and emptied his revolver into Yi Min. He and Erna fled the flat quickly attempting to reach the Austrian border before being aprehended by Munich police. He then turned the revolver on Erna and then himself.

What exactly Yi Min was doing with Erna remains unclear. Some sources claim that Erna was a prostitute and was performing her normal duties. Some sources claim that the two had been having a passionate love affair since Yi Min's posting to Berlin in early January. Some say that Erna was being raped by Yi Min - this is perhaps the most plausible, if the most politically inconvenient explanation. Erna did attempt to flee with Horst - suggesting that the act was perhaps not consensual.

Regardless, this journal is not concerned with gossiply tabloid style articles. The ramifications of the Horst Wessel Affair is much more important. After Horst Wessel's arrest a wave of SA demonstrations swept Germany, shop windows were broken, Chinese students hounded, Ernst Rohm the head of the SA publically attacked Hitler for siding with a "Chinese mongrel dog over a fine speciment of Aryan." Clashes between the police and SA became more and more frequent and it seemed as if Germany tottered in the brink of a revolution. Ordinary Germans were shocked at the SA's violence and attacks against what most Germans saw as an allied nation and at the very least an important trading partner. Adolf Hitler seemed to be losing control of events. Ominously for Hitler President Hindenburg asked to see Hitler on February 24...

What happens next is one of history's most bold and barefaced treacheries. Adolf Hitler called an 'emergency meeting' where he invited the heads of SA troopleaders around the nation, party gauleiters and party bigwigs were also present. Many SA leaders assumed that the "National Revolution" had begun and were eager to attend. When Hitler asked the question "All who are ready for the National Revolution. Stay!" had gotten them worked up -believing Hitler was on their side. Perhaps the filing out of non-SA party members should have alerted them that something was amiss. Hitler then gave a 4 hour long harrangue where he described himself as the "National Revolution" accused Rohm and the SA of treachery and other very mean things. At the end members of the Shutzstaffel burst in with submachine guns to arrest many of the leading members of the SA. Rohm was given a lead pill and died of complications from taking a lead pill travelling at high velocity in the brain. In one foul swoop Hitler had removed the greatest threat to his regime and made him very popular. His audience with Hindenburg on February 24 ended with high praise indeed for Hitler. Politically, the Horst Wessel Affair was a boon for Hitler who used the opportunity to consolidate his power.

The opposite was true, unfortunately for Chiang Kai-shek. T.V Soong and Wang Jingwei had both come out to declare that "All foreigners are foreign devils and we should stay away from them and maitain a neutral foreign policy (paraphrased)" Massive protests broke out in Nanking, Beijing, Shanghai, Canton and other major cities demanding 'reparations.' Needless to say, the climate was not conductive to friendly Sino-German relations - a visit by Hitler to China in late July was cancelled. Relations deteriorated somewhat. Although the cold snap in Sino-German relations would not last more than a year the long term effects were massive. Chiang looked for a new partner in Europe and he found this in Mussolini and Italy....

Next Update: Of Mice, Men and Trotskyists.



http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped...archiv_Bild_146-1978-043-14,_Horst_Wessel.jpg

 

[CCA]

1934: Dark Clouds and Silver Linings

Part Two: Of Mice, Men and Trotskyists

But, Mousie, thou art no thy lane
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best laid schemes o' mice an' men
Gang aft a-gley,
An' lea'e us nought but grief an' pain,
For promised joy.

The study of diplomacy often centers on rational, logical and empircal basis. Accidents of fate and the flights of fortunes as well as the individual personalities of the various world leaders are often treated as unimportant at best compared to socio-economic, cultural, historical, geopolitical and ideological conditions conditions. This history of the 20th century should caution us against such a narrow approach. One has to ask several pressing questions against this theory - would the long lasting Sino-German friendship have been pssible without the admittedly unlikely friendship that developed between Adolf Hitler and Chiang Kai-Shek? Would a more rational and less insane Joseph Stalin demanded the recall of the Trotsky and the Soviet Advisors following the death of Sergei Kirov?
Other significant events of the last century have essentially been the acts of fate, chance and personality and it would be unwise to disregard these factors.
- Diplomacy in the 20th Century, Monique Kerr

Nadezhda Alliluyeva - Stalin's 2nd wife and anchor to the realm of reality.

It is a generally agreed upon fact that following the death of Stalin's second wife Nadezhda Alliluyeva that Stalin began his winding and twistry road to full blown insanity and to quote a Russian historian "left the realm of reality." This descent into madness would be a long and winding process with Stalin occasionally taking vacations in the realm of reality. In 1934 though Stalin was in full blown paranoia mode. The emergence of a popular challenger in the form of Sergei Kirov only served to enrage Stalin.

Predictably Sergei Kirov later died at the hand of an assasin. Predictably, Stalin used it as an excuse to expel Trotsky and other potential challengers from the Communist Party. Predictably, a show trial was arranged where the assasin - Leonid Nikolaev confessed and said that the assasination was arranged by a ring of "Senior Trotskyists." Predictably there was a large ring around the country full of such supposed 'traitors.' Predictably many of these traitors were in the military and many of these traitors turned out to be opponents of Stalin and Stalinism. The "Great Purges" would effectively destroy the Soviet Union's armed forces organizational capacity and facilitate her humiliation at the hands of the "little Entete" and Japan in late 1930.

Stalin personally demanded the recall of the Soviet Mission from China. The steam ship that had been arranged to return Trotsky and the others was unfortunately 'hijacked' by this motly band of revolutionaries and they comandeered the ship all the way for Mexico - perhaps an unlikely place for a revolutionary to end up - but nevertheless Leon Trotsky was now Senor Trotsky.

The Chinese learnt a lesson from this. The Soviets could ultimately not be trusted. Although Soviet help for the Silk Railway was still forthcoming relations between the two powers turned from warm to cool. Chiang's best laid plan's for breaking China's diplomatic isolation were unravelled and it was then that he and China turned to Italy...

Next Update:
The Duce and the Generalissimo: Sino-Italian Cooperation.

 

[CCA]

Hey Everyone,

This TL is planned to continue (ideally) till the year 2010.

Thanks to everyone for their kind comments and feedback - I'll reply to each one in detail once I finish updating up to schedule.

1934: Dark Clouds and Silver Linings

Part Three: The Duce and the Generalisimo: Sino-Italian Cooperation.

"Chiang Kai-Shek is an artist who has worked men, as other artists have worked marble or metals. But men are harder than stone and less malleable than iron. China is a masterpiece. The artist has succeeded. His capabilities far exceed the task."
- Benito Mussolini

Mussolini greeting crowds in Shanghai.

Although the Sino-Italian "Pact of Brotherhood and Friendship" signed in December 21 1934 came as a surprise to many observers it was in hindsight perhaps an inevitable development of trends that had been evident since the early 1920's. Italy had long sought to portray itself as the friend of China and it's recognition of KMT suzerainity over all of China and it's steadfast refusal to back down in spite of international pressure (unlike Germany) meant that Italy, Italian Fascism and Mussolini had many admirers and friends within Nationalist China. Italy's restraint during the "Humiliation Treaty of Beijing" in spite the high profile murders of several Italian nationals was also taken as a sign of Italian good faith. As a consqeuence Sino-Italian relations became very warm.

As Sino-Italian relations became closer, so did the volume of Sino-Italian trade. Although there was no formal trade pact between the two nations, Italy was China's 4th biggest trader (after Germany, Soviet Union, USA.) Italian luxury goods such as Silk, perfumes and cosmetics was very popular with the rising Chinese middle classes and upper classes. Foreign goods - especially Italian were taken to be status symbols - a sign that a particular individual or family that possessed them that they were wealthy enough to own expensive foreign products rather than the cheaper Chinese products. Some economic historians (mostly Chinese) assert that Sino-Italian trade during the late 20's and early 30's spared Italy the worst of the Great Depression.

The RN Gulio Cesare was renamed CN Sun Yat-sen when it was purchased from Italy in 1934.

Others, perhaps more realistically, assert that it was not in the civilian trade that made Chinese silver flow into Italian coffers. It was in the military sector. Following the 'frosting' in Sino-German relations following Gustav Stresseman's acceptance of the "Treaty of Beijing" China turned to Italy for military help - particularly in the construction of a naval force. Negotiations began about the purchase of two Italian Cavour class Battleships of pre-WWI vintage - the Conti de Cavour and the Giulio Cesare. The Italian War Ministry and Mussolini were happy to oblidge - Mussolini saw an opportunity to strenghten Sino-Italian relations and to make a tidy profit selling two obsolete warships. With the money he expected to make he could finance the construction of brand new and modern battleships. To sweeten the deal he agreed to return Italian concessions in China and to send 'Naval advisors' to renovate the two obsolete warships into more modern ones. Excited by the potential of having two warships Chiang agreed. Conti de Cavour and Gulio Cesare were delivered in late 1934 accompanied by Italian military advisors
and sailed into Shanghai with much fanfare.

The RN Conti de Cavour was renamed and redesignated as CN Yi Min (in honour of the murdered Chinese ambassador to Germany)

China had probably purchased the two obsolete battleships for
far more than they were worth, for Mussolini had begged the Italian Lira artificually higher before making the sale. Despite this, Mussolini's voluntary renounciation of Italian concessions and violent denounciation of "Anglo-French Imperialism" in China meant that when Il Duce stepped into Shanghai he was greeted with ecstatic cheering. The fact that Il Duce had come personally to deliver the two battleships was widely praised. Chinese culture placed a high emphasis on face-to-face personal relationships and the fact that Mussolini had come in person to negotiate a Sino-Italian Treaty was highly regarded. When Mussolini stepped into Shanghai any doubts about Italian sincerity dispelled - the Sino-Italian Treaty was a foregone conclusion.

The Fiat CR.32 which was more manoeuverable and able to take off and land in shorter runways was deemed suitable for the China's planned fleet of carriers.

The Sino-Italian "Treaty of Friendship and Brotherhood" resembled the Sino-German in the economic agreements signed between the nations, it also resembled the Sino-German in that it laid down provisions for the two nations going to each others aid when attacked by a foreign power (except for Germany or the Soviet Union.) It resembled the Sino-German agreements in all but the secret agreements for Chinese Naval rearnament. Over the coming decade, nearly half of Chinese naval surface ships (excluding destroyer class ships and smaller) would come from Italian naval yards. The Italian CR.32 would also be build under license in Kwangsi for use of the Chinese Navy...

Italy was popular in China. Italian fascism had many admirers, ranging from figures as diverse as Dai Li (the man who would later earn the title "Chiang's Himmler) to Wang Jingwei. The fascist theory of "corporatism" was especially liked - as was Italian futurism which seemed to herald a brighter, faster and more vibrant future - a mood that was in vogue with the mood of a nation that was emerging from the hidebound conservatism and shadows of the past. Young Chinese flocked to watch French cinema, danced to American jazz in dance halls and admired Italian futurist paintings. The stability that the Kuomintang created laid the foundation for a stable and prosperous middle class, when the economy keeps growing by an average of 10% every year and the money keeps roling in what's a guy to do?

Call an election.

Next Update: A Brief Analysis of Foreign Military Missions + The Plan for Chinese Naval Rearnament "Plan C."

 

[CCA]

Thanks to everyone for their kind feedback and comments - as I said I will get to them at the conclusion bit.

1934: The Year of Dark Clouds and Silver Linings.

A ruler who is not himself wise cannot be given advice.

- Chiang Kai-shek

An Italian, A German, An American and A Russian walk into China: A brief analysis of foreign military missions in China

...Although the topic of foreign military missions is a quite obscure field in history it is quite an important and topical one for the development of the modern Chinese state. The various military missions established by Italy, Germany, The Soviet Union and the United States of America would provide the foundations of the success of China's Reunification Wars. By laying the foundation for Chinese industrialization and modernization they enabled China to regain much of her strenght and self-respect...

Members of the German Mission to China with some Chinese comrades.

...The Germans by far were the oldest, most well established, and most respected foreign military mission. German advisors were considered to be in the words of Chiang Kai-shek "the most trustworthly, most loyal, most knowledgeable and most competent." Lundendorff and his successor Alexander von Falkenhausen would be given access to absolutely everything that concerned the Chinese military. They were the only foreigners privy to the full versions Dai Li's confidential intelligence reports and were considered more powerful than even some senior Chinese figures. German military help were integral not only in the Nationalist victory in the First Reunification War but also in the creation of the modern National Revolutionary Army and last, but not least, the successful creation of a military-industrial complex essentially from scratch. The success of German expertise can be seen in that in 1934 - China had the same industrial capacity as Italy - a figure that was expected to double every 3 years...

... It is important to note however, that German help was not the product of natural altruism. German participation in the creation of a viable military-industrial complex in Southern China was not without benefits. For one they gave German industrialists and weaponmongers a chance to keep developing modern and powerful weaponry, not only that but many of the German 'advisors' serving in Chinese submarines(built with German expertise), Chinese airplanes(license built German aircraft built with German expertise) and Chinese panzers (ditto) would later form the core of Germany's reconstructed armed forces. Railways - built with German expertise and help would bring in raw materials from the Chinese hinterland into the ports of Guangzhou where they were taken to Germany - to fuel German rearnament along with Chinese silver. When German rearnament began in earnest in 1933 - they were not starting from scratch...

Many German Jews such as Lise Meitner were forced out of Germany. Ironically Lise Meitner and her exiled colleages would provide the core in the Sino-German Götterdämmerung Project...

... There is however a shameful legacy in Sino-German relations - the plight of German Jewry. In the chaotic days of the "Rohm Putsch" in 1934 many German Jews who were doctors, scientists, chemists, physicists and other intellectuals were forced out of Germany and given one-way visas to China. Although there is no evidence of Chiang ever asking Hitler to expel loyal German citizens on the basis of racial discrimination - he did not exactly complain when these highly educated and highly motivated foreigners turned up in boatloads. Although many did not want to flee in China - preferring to flee to England and America - they were kept in China through a combination of the carrot (highly paid, highly respected posts, lots of money for research grants) and the stick (many still had family in Germany...

... In summary, it would not be an exaggeration to state that German help was crucial for the viability of the Kuomintang's republican project. Without German aid in the early days of the republic - it is quite conceivable that Zhang Zhoulin would have managed to unify China under his royal banner...

Marshall Cavallerro responsible for the fact that many of the most incompetent, old and useless Italian generals were sent to China were they gave the Italians an abysmal reputation.

... If the Chinese respected the Germans for their competence and professionalism the opposite applied to many members of the Italian military mission. Marshal Cavallerro - the man responsibile for who would be picked on these missions conspired with the Army Chief of Staff Giueseppe Ferrari (*winks to Croesus*) to pick the most incompetent, most senile and most obstructive Generals to China where they annoyed their hosts with their ill-conceived, obsolete advice. However, there was apparently a boost to Opium revenues and 'sing-song girls' wherever the Italians went so the visit was perhaps not a loss...

Prince Luigi Amedeo chief of the Italian naval mission and the "only competent Italian in China."

... Although the Italian military mission to China is much malgined - and perhaps rightly so, there were competent members of the military mission. One such individual was Prince Luigi Amendeo head of the Regia Marina mission to China. Despite suffering a heart attack in early 1933 the spyry Amedeo who was a famous explorer bought an enthusiasm to his role - being instrumental to Chinese naval rearnament and cooperating with his German counterpart Wilhelm Canaris to produce several Chinese Maritime Defence Papers. The efforts of Amedeo and Canaris ensured that the Chinese Navy at the beginning of the Second Unification War was one of the largest (at least on paper)...

... There are several more thorough and better works written about Leon Trotsky's impact on the National Revolutionary Army it will only be given a brief mention here. In the words of a contemporary: "Trotsky had the rare gift of tempering steel out of the souls of men. He married German professionalism with Chinese bravery and sealed it with Russian determination" Soviet Advisors not serving under or with Trotsky were regarded with immense suspcion - having no influence on Chinese policy in any way shape or form...

The image of Airships filled the Chinese mind with wonder and imagination. Leading to the spending of millions of dollars to construct a large fleet. This was the main impact of the American Military Mission. Conveniently China became America's number one buyer of Helium...

...While the Italian, Soviet and German military missions had official support from their various governments. The American Military mission were composed of a various eccentrics trying to pedel their ideas which were considered too 'crazy' or 'impractical' by the U.S Army and U.S Military. They were mostly successful as China's large fleet of airships at the beginning of the Second Unification War showed...

Next Update: Chinese Naval Rearnament

 

[CCA]

Hmmm - I don't necessarily need an ubergod figure who can fix everything wrong with the Italian military - I just need someone marginally more competent than OTL. They don't have the be brilliant general either - just good administrators. Also Giuseppe Ferari is driving much of these reforms with Cavalerro serving as a useful front man - Cavalerro has the clout - Ferrari has the brains. Ferrari uses his reforms to purge the Italian Army of Cavalerro's rivals + deadwood - Cavalerro gets the credit for reforming the Italian Army.

Thanks to everyone for their kind feedback and comments - as I've said I will get to all of them in the end! I promise

Anyway - without further ado:

________________________________________________________________
Plan "C" Chinese Naval Rearnament

Grand Admiral Chen Chak - Supreme Commander of Chinese Naval Forces

"The Chinese Navy - once like China itself - was once the best of the world. Brave and innovative Chinese sailors like Zheng He once reached even the distant Americas. Chinse revenue fleets traded with Europe itself and bought civilization to the barbarous - enabling them to eventually overtake us. The Chinese Navy will be the greatest in the world once more."
- A drunk and incoherent Chen Chak rambles to the cabinet.

The Chinese Naval Forces (often shortened to Chinese Navy) - much like the Chinese Air Forces - was often created by pioneering men. Men of great vision and determination with the charisma and personality to get funding, equipment and the attention of the army focussed Kuomintang. From an early age Chan Chak showed a badassery that would be his defining characteristic for the rest of his life, following an accident which left his left leg (heh) severely infected - he performed an amuptation. At the age of eight. Without anaesthesia. Like many disenfranchised and jobless youth of his day he became a revolutionary. At the age of 17 he hijacked the composite cruiser Guangjia - his bombardment of the Forbidden Palace in Beijing was crucial to the Xinhai Revolution and the fall of the Qing dynasty. An assasin's grenade in 1913 left him unable to speak. By sheer force of will he was able to speak again in 1928 - defying all known medical logic. Following his recovery he was made "Supreme Commander of the Chinese Naval Forces" beating out the professionally trained, but less badass Admiral Chen Shaokuan. However Chiang could not afford to lose the services of Chen Shaokuan he was offered the post of "Commander of the Submarine Forces" - a significant honour when submarines are your only ocean-going vessel - second only to Chan Chak.

The rivalry of the two men did not only affect their personal relations and the lack of communication between the Submarine Forces and the Chinese Navy it also led to battles of what should be given construction priority.

Current Strengt of Chinese Naval Forces (December 1934):
Capital Ships (Light cruiser and above)

2 X Light Carries ( Post WWI Vintage) CN Guangzhou, CN Shanghai

2 X Battleships (World War I Vintage) - CN Yi Min, CN Sun Yat-sen

3 X Light Cruisers (Semi-Modern) - CN Ping Hai, CN Ning Hai, CN Jing Hai

4 X Light Cruisers (Obsolete Rust-bucket From The Qing Era) - CN Guangjia, CN Guangji, CN Guangbing, CN Guangding

Non-Capital Class:

300 x Coastal Submarines (Based from the German UB Type I Submarine - WWI Vintage)

30 X Electric Long Rage Ocean-Going Submarines Type 1 (A culmination of illegal German research and experimentation of submarine types in China. Would later be the foundation of the German Type I Submarine)

500 x V-Ships (A very, very, very poor man's/ hobo's destroyer/minelayer/minesweeper/floating target practice)

50 X Destroyers (Modern - based on German designs)

1000 x miscelaneous craft (including yachts armed with 20mm AA)

Under Construction/In Reserve:

1 X Battleship (Modern - The Battleship Dante Alighieri is being modernized by La Spezia Royal Yard Italy to be sold to the Chinese Naval Forces)

2 X Carriers (One being constructed by Shanghai Naval Yard, One Being Constructed at Guangzhou Naval Yard)

500 x V-Ships (The Chinese Naval Forces have enough guns to equip 500 more trawlers/merchantmen/whatever they can pick up)

Plan "A"

Supreme Commander Chan Chak proposed what dry, bureacratic and unbadass historians would later label "Naval Plan A." In fact Chan Chak's original plan and memorandum was titled "Naval Plannings of Greatness for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of China." Chan Chak proposed this fleet strenght:

6 x Battleships (Need to modernize the 2 existing battleships, need to await delivery of Italian Dante Aligehri, need to buy/build three more battleship)
6 x Carriers (Need to build 6 carriers)
12 x Light Carriers (Need to build 10 Light Carriers)
100 x Light Cruisers (Need to upgrade 4 light cruisers, need to build 93 light cruisers)
180 X Modern Destroyers (Need to build 150 more!)
1000 X "Modern" V-Ships (would have needed to build 500 and convert 500...)
300 x Coastal Submarines
30 X Long Range Submarines

Although Chiang liked Admiral Chak's plan - there was no way he was going to fork out the obscene ammounts of money Plan "A" would have required. Chiang also sensed an Italian attempt to make more money by the fact that China would have needed to purchase many of these ships (from Italy) if Plan A was to be completed by 1939.

Plan B

Admiral Chen Shauokan attempted to ingratiate himself with Chiang by proposing Plan Bruno with the help of Wilhelm Canaris. History remembers this plan as "Naval Plan B" Chen proposed a very modest increase in fleet strenght. The existing numbers of capital and non-submarine ships could be kept at the same level. Chen advocated a large and powerful submarine force with 500 "Long Range" Submarines and 500 "Coastal Submarines."

Plan C

Faced with two options that he didn't like very much - Chiang decided to come up with a different plan. Plan Chiang - which history now remembers as Plan C. He proposed this fleet strenght:

3 x Battleships
3 x Carriers
6 x Light Carriers
30 x Light Cruisers
100 x Modern Destroyers
500 x "Modern" V-ships
500 x Coastal Submarines
150 X Long range submarines

Only time would tell whether Chiang had chosen the correct route....

 

[CCA]

Conclusion + The Soong Sisters

Overall, 1934 was a dark year for the Republic of China. Her two key allies had proven unreliable and she was forced to seek alternatives. Nontheless as the western democracies stagnated under the burden of the Great Depression and revolts, strikes and rebellions bought the political system to a screeching halt - it seems as though China was in a relatively good position, enough of a good position that President Chiang Kai-shek called for an election for October 1935...

The Soong Sisters

A photo of the Soong Sisters

One married money, one monied power, one married China.

- Traditional Saying

The Soong Sisters would be known as history's most powerful female figures. At varous points in the Republic of China the three effectively ran China - whether directly or through influencing their husbands. The three skillfully used money, power and sex appeal to successfully steer the course of China until 1970.

- H.H Kung and Soong Ailing

Ailing was the sister who married money. H.H Kung was China's richest man - his decision to side with the KMT at a crucial junction at the Battle of Shanghai meant that he was able to reap large rewards at the expense of the business people and gentry who had sided with Big Eared Du. H.H Kung was also the elected mayor of Shanghai - giving him a solid powerbase in the factional games of the Kuomintang. Ailing was perceived to be avaricious and greedy. An urban legend attributes Ailing Kung sequestering an airship to evacuate one of their villas. Nontheless, despite their unpopularity - money in Republican China talked. Silver bullets were still as deadly as they were before and it was long before Ailing and her husband had an informal web of paid informers and assasins - ready to indulge in the deadly game of politics. There was, after all, going to be an election next year. Broadly speaking, Kung and Ailing were alligned with T.V Soong's "White" faction.

- Soong Chingling seductively reading a book

Soong Chingling was the sister who married power. Her first husband was the founder of the Kuomintang and of the Republic of China - the revered Sun Yat-sen. She would exploit her prestigious surname for all that it was worth in the 1935 election as she campaigned against Chiang Kai-shek for the presidency. Chingling was known as the passionate and mercurial syster - with a burning fire for social justice. She found a fellow soul in Wang Jingwei - beginning a passionate love affair that would ultimately culminate in marriage. For now however, Soong was content to act as Wang's 'stalking horse' by running against Chiang Kai-shek. This allowed Wang to publically support Chiang and appear to be loyal to the Triumverate without openly undermining Chiang. Chingling was obviously a member of Wang Jingwei's "Red" faction.

- Soong Meiling and President Chiang Kai-shek
It was the third and youngest sister that married China. Although Soong "Madame Chiang Kai-shek" was the model of an obedient and traditional wife in the 1935 election - behind the scenes she ran Chiang's election campaign. She was a masterful genius of propaganda - earning the epithet "The Chinese Goebbells" and her weekly broadcasts to America gave Chiang's presidency legitemacy. Though she played a prominent role in 1935 - it was afterwards and in the Second Reunification War that she would shine.

(Sorry for the time taken to update. As I've said in NPC - my best friend has recently confessed her romantic feelings to me after a long overseas trip - converting a previously unrequited love to a requited one. Needless to say we spent the whole weekend catching up.)

Thanks to everyone for their kind feedback and comments and the unexpected support I've received in the Turtledoves. Although I stand by my original endorsement for Geekhis's amazing Viva Balbo, I am nontheless flaterred and humbled by the level of support for this TL. A very sincere thank you to all my fans - especially Hendryk who has provided excellent advice.

Next Update: 1935 - The Generalissimo and the Widow.

 

[CCA]

The Vulture - Cheers Things are going really well thanks. We've both dropped the L-bomb on each other and I couldn't imagine life being better. I haven't decided to do with Thailand yet - I'm probably going to have them go Japanese - if only for balance reasons

Hendryk - Thanks Hendryk - correction made.

tallwingedgoat - I'm sure the fraternal comrades and brothers and sisters in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics will be happy to allow material and commerce to flow from the peace-loving people's of Germany and China as they struggle against the unfair death lock of the Capitalist powers...

Geekhis Khan - Thanks Geekhis I'm surprised by how well I'm doing to be honest! But there's no way I should be allowed to win. Your TL is several light years ahead of mine both in the quality of the writing and the research (You have a freaking opera in yours!!!)

Nivek - Thanks Nivek - If anything the racism and "White Policy" in Australia and New Zealand is even stronger in this TL thanks to a stronger more hostile China. The tiger might not fly in China but what about a condor? Hmm - there's no reason for the Nazi to make another movie about Chiang - especially now that Chinese and German relations are in a bit of a low.

Wyragen-TXRG4P - Thanks. Without giving too much away the Chinese will send aid and metrial to both sides.

The Vulture - And portugal will be pushed. Very hard.

Wyragen-TXRG4P - Daqing will be discovered soon enough, And it's discovery will lead to - how shall we say - interesting times.

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The Generalissimo and the Widow

The Generalissimo sat calmly yet rather stiffly. The posture reflecting the man's inner thoughts. Calm yet panicked. Secure yet so fragile. So powerful and yet so weak. Images flashed before him - crawling in the mud, shrapnel tearing into his right thigh - on his wedding night, lying drunk sprawled in the bathroom, weeping, fits of hysteric alcohol soaked tears staining his elegant white shirt.

Attempting to flash an easy smile the Generalissimo looks up at the Widow:

"The Wife tells me you've decided to run against me?"

The Widow nods curtly.

"I'm sure that the Diplomat's charm and wit will be enough for you and his faction to win."

The Widow flashes the briefest of smiles before replying:

"Oh, yes, yes I'm sure - but personally I like the look of his party machine too. Actually - let's cut the charade - you and I know that Wang controls the Kuomintang."

The Generalissimo winces but proceeds:

"Ah yes my dear - but I think you're forgetting that power ultimately grows out of the barrel of a gun. Besides - do you really think that the common people will vote for a woman like you?"

"If she's the wife of the Dearly Beloved Sun Yat-sen they might. They will. That's what we're banking on at any rate."


"Good luck then, be careful though - I've been hearing a few rumours about you and -"

The Widow laughs - no cackles, the hair on the Generalissimo's skin stand out.

"I wouldn't go there if I were you Chiang. I'm sure a lot of people might remember a few things here and there about your wedding ni-

"ENOUGH!"

The Generalissimo's fist smashes hard on the table, a dark brown colour built from the finest baltic timber - it vibrates slightly but it stays. The white gloved fist of the Generalissimo contrasting with the dark wood. Face impassive the Generalissimo maintains his stance - as if daring the Widow to laugh.

The Widow cackles again.

The Generalissimo and the Prophet:

To conquer the command of the air means victory; to be beaten in the air means defeat and acceptance of whatever terms the enemy may be pleased to impose.
- Giulio Douhet, Command of the Air

- The High Prophet of Air Power

Any discussion about the Chinese Air Force would be imcomplete without discussing at lenght the works of Giulio Douhet. His influence on the development of Chinese Air Power in the early 20th century marks him as not only as a prophet but as a practical minded man as comfortable with the hard graft of moulding a new air force as with grand, lofty, abstract theorizing. His ability to meld the practical and the theoretical marks him out to be one of history's most astounding military theorists.

Giulio Douhet started life in an obscure little city in Italy. His childhood was a pleasant - if unconventional one. He drifted without much aim or purpose until he found outlet in the military arts - being assigned to the General Staff at the beginning of the century. He was a far-sighted and innovative officer - giving lectures on mechanization and air power long before they were recognized. Alas - he was in a conservative regime and found himself jailed in 1915. Although he was released in 1917 and assigned to be the First Commissioner of Italian Aviation he found himself loathing the army and it's hidebound bureacracies. After the Great War ended - Giulio Douhet - like so many bored impetous men went looking for adventure in China. Like the German Gunther Pluschow, Giulio would soon find himself training many tens of thousands of young Chinese to be fliers. Unlike Gunther Pluschow - Giulio was a philosopher and a prophet. He wrote and published "Command of the Air" in 1923 arguing for the need of a nation to have a fleet of "Strato-Airship Bombers" that could fly so high that they could not be intercepted that would drop "bombs of fire and death" that would ultimately be so terrible that the enemy civilian population would revolt and sue for peace.

In Europe - the conservative hide bound militaries may have dismissed Giulio as either a quack, a deluded soul or brain damaged. In China - Chiang found in him a prophet. (The fact that Chiang also waves millions of Yuan into a project to train dolphins to attack submarines using sonic waves is irrelevant to this) Although there was yet no money available for Airships - there would soon be. Napoleon once said that when China awoke the world would tremble - he had no idea how true his words would eventually proves thanks to Giulio Douhet...

The Generalissimo and the Englishman:

It was no secret that the Generalissimo hated the English. They had gassed him just as the war was about to draw a close and he hated them for that. He hated them for their hypocrisy and their arrogance.

It was odd then to have an Englishman to be right next to the Generalissimo as they stood on the balcony silently watching the parade. The load and impressive roar of engines revebrating across Nanking. Rows and rows of neatly lined tanks filed past. Rows and rows of neatly lined trucks filed past now - filled with rows and rows of neatly lined men in grey hard helmets with grey, hard faces facing to the Generalissimo. The day turned into night and finally the long columns filled past one last time. The Generalissimo turned to the Englishman and said:

"I hope you are pleased with your children?"

Turning bright red with either awe, embarrasment or a frightful mixture of both the Englishman replied:

"Your Excellency, they have grown up so quickly I no longer recognize them."

_________________________________________________________

Thank you all very much for your kind comment and feedback and your votes in the Turtledoves

Apologies for the lack of updates as of late - I'll try to get one weekly but that's hard to maintain with the girlfriend, uni and party work.

Comments and feedback actively solicited and appreciated

 

[CCA]

Chinese Politics 101: Legislature, Executive and the Judiciary

Chinese Politics in the Nanking Era was a complicated mess of competing interest groups, personal loyalties and familial affiliations. In order to understand the structure of Chinese Politics in the area one must come to terms with the "family" system that the Kuomintang advocated during the Nanking decade.

The basic principle of the "family" system was that government and society was to be shaped in a hierarchy with the President as the Father. All who payed respect to and obeyed the President would flourish in the system - communists, trade unionists, businesses, landlords, peasants, bankers, industrialists and a whole range of seemingly disparate groups existed in a relative state of harmony through the wise and benevolent leadership of the President. (Although cynics would argue that it was the fruits of economic growth that created enough prosperity to maintain social cohesion in the face of swift change.) The "Mother" of the Nation was the apparatus of government - as with Chinese domestic politics - the mother reigned supreme in the domestic affairs, but the "Mother" could never deign to question the "Father's" supremely benevolent wisdom.

The "Family" system of Republican China should have lent itself to authoritarian - even outright dictatorial government. Indeed the Second Republic did share features of it's Fascist and National Socialist allies - it had a bloated security apparatus, a harsh and punitive penal system for political prisoners, engaged in mass propaganda efforts aimed at portraying one figure as the "Father" of the nation and exercised wide-ranging censorship efforts. However, the Second Republic never became as authoritarian as it's Italian and German ideological bretheren did - why was this the case?

An important factor for this is that the top leadership of the Kuomintang - from Chiang Kai-shek to Wang Jingwei were convinced democrats by experience. The experience of a crazed and senile Sun Yat-sen nearly running the movement to the ground and destroying all they had accomplished had convinced them all of the need for the President's power to be constrained. Consequently the 1933 Constitutional Convention produced a consitution that still retained a very powerful executive: The President was the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, controlled appointment to the Cabinet, could dissolve the Yuan (Chinese Parliament) and had the power to influence the appointment of 800 of the 2000 member Yuan. The President also chaired the Executive Council The President's term was also set at 10 years. Overall the President's role was very powerful - but he was constrained by several players.

The first player who could play a check on the President's power was the Premier. The Premier was elected to chair the 2000 member Yuan by the Yuan through blind negative voting. The Premier needed to be a member of the Yuan to be eligeble. Whoever received the least negative votes in the election and became Premier. Because of the nature of the voting whoever was the least controversial and most 'non-partisan' and a consensus-oriented figure would receive the job. The Premier acted as a check on the President because being Premier meant automatic inclusion in Cabinet and Executive Council where he/she could use his morale stature and authority against the President. In more blunt terms - the Premier could call for a vote of no confidence which would succeed if it received a 3/4th majority in the Yuan.

The second player who could play a check on the President's power was the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister was elected by the Yuan - whoever could form the most support amongst the disparate factions would win the Prime Ministership. The Prime Minister chaired the Cabinet and could make 'recommendations' on who was selected to the Cabinet - however ultimately the president had the final authority on who was selected. However, Cabinet was closed to the President once the members was chosen - the President was not allowed to participate in meetings - even in an ex-officio capacity. Like the Premier - the Prime Minister had the moral authority to challenge the president. The Prime Minister could call for a vote of no-confidence in the Cabinet which would succeed if it received a 2/3rds majority.

The President's own Executive Council could also check his own power. Any member of the Executive Council could call for a vote of no-confidence which only required a 50% + 1 majority to succeed.

The final player who could check presidential power was the "Supreme Arbiter" - the head of the Chinese Supreme Court. Theoretically speaking, after deliberation, the decision of the Chinese Supreme Court which was conveyed by the Supreme Arbiter was binding and final and since in theory all was equal under law - the President could be removed in this way.

In conclusion - Chinese politics is complex - there is simply no way that one can understand everything in one short sitting. However - the above piece may provide some context and understanding to a very complex topic.

The Relation Between Legislature and the Executive:


Thanks to everyone for their support and kind words

Update schedule - 1935:
Part A: Chinese Politics 101 - Today
Part B: The Election - Tommorow
Part C: Squalor Victoria - Aftermath of the 1935 Election - Friday

Feedback and comments, questions welcome as usual

 

[CCA]

The 1935 Election

POLS 112 : Introduction to Chinese Politics

The 1935 Election: Intraparty Competition and Democracy -
A research essay by Josh Cheuk


The 1935 Election was a crucial event in the development of China - although it was effectively a one-party heavily authoritarian state - the existence of factions within the dominant party grouping meant that the elections resembled one of a democratic nation. That is to say that there were competing interest groups composed of mostly 'elite' struggling for factional control and dominance over the levers of government. The 1935 Election would be doubly important as the struggle extended not only to the highest lever of power (President) but to that of theLegislative Yuan. The 1935 Election would see intense levels of factiona struggle and intraparty competition and the elections would be relatively remarkably free of corruption and fraud as the factions held a rough balance of power. This essay will chronicle the 1935 election in broad terms with the aim of demonstrating the thesis that intense intraparty competition can produce outcomes similar to that of a more 'democratic state'

The competing "factions" in the Kuomintang took their name from the Kuomintang flag.


Before we can get into detail we must first introduce the key stakeholders and players involved in the 1935 Election in broad terms and provide some background. These can be broadly divided into three factions: the "whites, reds and blues." These factions represented the broad ideological tendencies and groupings within the governing Kuomintang Party and derived it's name from the Kuomintang flag. The white "sun" represented the "Control Group" - technocrats and army officers. The blue represented the "Freedom Group" - some elements of the middle class and 'progressive' businesses and the red represented the "Equality Group" - they were led by mostly left-wing academics and trade unionists and claimed to speak for the improverished workers and peasants.

Chiang Kai-shek campaigned on the basis of his military experience and on his 'statesman' image. He won a stunning 76% of the popular vote - a percentage unmatched by any other presidential candidate

The "whites" or the "Control Group" was led by President Chiang Kai-Shek. It was a loose coalition of high-ranking Army officers, Civil service technocrats and personal friends of the Chiang extended family. For the 1935 Election the Control Group was well-placed in that their control of the Army gave them muscle and election footsoldiers (in the literal and metaphorical sense) and Chiang Kai-Shek was very popular across wide swathes of the Chinese population. However, this popularity did not always translate into popularity for the "whites" or "white" candidates in the 1935 General Election. This is illustrated vividly in the election results: whereas Chiang Kai-shek garnered a phenomenal 76% of the vote, (in a fair election) 'white' candidates who stood for the legislative Yuan gained only 196 out of the 1200 seats - less than 20% and substantially less than the red and blue candidates. Critics have tended to dismiss the "control group" faction as as "Sergallio of emasculated sycophants desperate to maintain power at all costs." Ideologically - they were moderates or even opportunists - siding with the 'reds' or 'blues' and doing whatever they could to maintain power. This versatility, combined with Chiang's patronage and their control of the Army made them a formindable force in Chinese politics despite their lack of a popular base.

T.V Soong was the leader of the "Freedom Group" and endorsed Chiang.

The 'blues' or "Freedom Group" were by and large middle and upper-class liberals determined to increase freedom in the new China. They chaffed at the econonmic and political 'safeguards' and wanted to let loose the 'untamed forces of the people.' In reality they were virulent anti-communists who wanted to 'purge' the Kuomintang of the 'left' and 'communism.' They stood in diametric opposition to the 'reds.' They supported Chiang Kai-shek's candidacy in the 1935 General Election - their unofficial faction leader T.V Soong was related to Chiang by marriage. Their para-military group the "blue-shirts" which would later develop into a potent force in Chinese politics was born out of the 1935 Election to 'protect' the faction. They were more successful than the 'whites' gaining 404 of the 1200 contestable Yuan seats. Their primary base was the 'progressive gentry' and other members of the middle and upper-classes.

Kuomintang Party President Wang JingWei barnstormed effectively for "Red" Yuan candidates. Less successful was the "red" candidate Soong Qingling who only gained 24% of the popular vote.

The 'reds' or the "Equality Group" had the most popular support. Their faction leader Wang JingWei was Party President and controlled the Kuomintang party machinery - using it to promote "left" candidates. The Blue's fears of a communist takeover did not seem unfounded as Wang ruthlessly used the party machine to support 'his' candidates over that of the blues and the whites. The Reds gained 560 of the 1200 seats in the Yuan - leaving them by far the largest party in the Yuan (although short of a majority - especially if you included 800 non-elected representatives. Less successful was Soong Qingling who gained only 24% of the vote - however - this was a notable achievement in a society such as China where women where only recently given the vote. It is important to note that it would be unfair to attribute the "reds'" success entirely to Wang's control of the party machinery. Their platform - a mix of populist solutions to the problems of the rural and urban proleriat was very popular.

In fact, many historians argue that had it not been for the "October Surprise," Qingling and the Reds might have done better. The humilaition of the Japanese Army when it attempted to 'punish' some Shanghai Chinese for the murder of 15 Buddhist Monks and was pushed out of their Shanghai concession undoubtedly boosted Chiang's and the Army's support. The Japanase were ultimately forced to ask for a cease-fire agreement. This foreign policy triumph with only a month to go before election boosted Chiang's and the White's chances and dented the Reds.

These three factions held a rough balance of force during the election - and afterwards. It was in all three's interest to ensure election. The whites did not want to upset the status quo because they were the whites, the blue's accepted the results as they had done better than expected and the reds knew that they would be smashed if they tried to fabricate the results. The coalition that was formed with Chiang Kai-shek as President, Wang Jingwei as Prime Minister and T.V Soong as Premier was an affirmation of the "Granita" status quo. Intraparty competition had produced a coalition government and a relatively stable equilibrium where all factions felt like they were the 'winners.'


Essay comments:
C-.

This is quite a disappointing essay from a student of such high potential- although you made sound arguments you provided too little evidence and did not source any of your assertions. The pictures you provided for the essay - while nice don't add anything to your argument. You also have a tangent about the "October Surprise" which has nothing to do with your argument. Please make a time to see me or your tutors so we can help you with your future essays. - Prof Patman.

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Hi all,

Sorry for the long delay! I've been frantic with exams and university and girlfriend. Those of you who are following my non-pol threads will also know that I've been having difficult times with her . But it'll be ok - but it has distracted me from doing updates!

More updates to follow this week.

 

[CCA]

Thanks everyone for their kind comments and feedback

To answer some questions:

P.S Hitler will visit China in TTL or was cancelled(butterflied by minor details)

- He still might ....

P.S.2. We gonna have an action update in the next one?

Yes this one will be an action update

- sorry for lack of updates - I went hitchiking with my girlfriend and uni has started and things have been crazy busy

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The "October Surprise": the Shanghai Incident

Seemingly minor events in a day can ripple out of cosmic proportions and cause reprucussions which still revebrate in history today. Marie Antoniette's throwaway remark was an explosive match that lit the French Revolution - the embers burn bright even today. And who could forget the famous proverb :

"For want of a nail the shoe was lost
For want of a shoe the horse was lost
For want of a horse the rider was lost
For want of a rider the batte was lost
For want of a battle the kingom was lost
All for want of a nail"

Who could have predicted that a mug thrown in a moment of drunken folly could cause so much pain and misery across the world?

Perhaps no one. At the time the events that would spark the general conflagration of the Second Great War would be hard to trace from this event - it laid the foundation of jingoism and "victory disease" in the hearts of China however.

The facts of the incident need to be ascertained. Apparently in September 28 a drunken fool that history doesn't remember threw his mug at a group of elderly Japanese monks in the Japanese concession. The Japanese guards shot him dead. A mob gathered immediately and lynched the guards and the monks. The city erupted in a frenzy. The Japanese moved reinforcements to their concession. The crowd gathered in front chanting anti-japanese slogans and burning effigees. A bullet cracks through the air - perhaps as a warning or as a signal? Perhaps in ideal conditions that Japanese Garrison may have been able to hold their cool. But this was not ideal conditions.

By the end of the month the conflagration has spread. Chiang, in the middle of an election campaign demands the return of the Japanese concession and the end of "Japanese Provocation-Agrression." The Japanese respond by moving more reinforcements to the city. The Chinese counter-respond by ordering a partial mobilization and moving heavy assets to the city. There is no firing yet - but the damn will break very soon.

Members of the Nationall Revolutionary Army charging into Shanghai despite fierce Japanese resistance
On October 9 they rise up "Resistance Groups" in Japanese held Shanghai seize buildings such as Japanese factories and take shots at Japanese troops and appeal to the President for help. The order is given - the tanks, armoured cars, men roll in. The Shanghai Volunteer Corps and Shanghai Police join in. The belagured Japanese Garrisson surrounded on all sides and being attacked by ferocious resistance fighters are cut off and destroyed in short order.

Shanghai Burns

By October 13 Japanese Shanghai is Chinese. President Chiang declares: "Let the world know that our great nation is awakening!" The match that would spark the general conflagration has been thrown. The question remained: How long would it take to reach the powderkeg?

 

[CCA]

Schweet! We are back in business with a bang!

I'm not sure how this will go on but by the looks of it, it's half the world ganging up on Japan. The pressure would probably enpough to force Japan to concede as mentioned in your previous update. Which kind of reminds me, Is your TL's Japan same as IOTL's Japan?

This mini-update should bring light to the Japan situation.

World Reaction to the "Shanghai Incident" and the fall of the Taisho Democracy

The reactions to the "Shanghai Incident" around the world were mixed and evolving. China's 'traditional' allies in Germany, Italy and the Soviet Union made a predictable stance - they 'deplored' Japanese 'Aggression' and 'supported the legitemate cause of the Chinese people against extra-territorialism.'

The position of the western powers was more complex. Although France and Britain had universally condemned the Japanese massacre on September 28 they were alarmed by the quick events that ended up placing Japanese Shanghai into Chinese hands - if it could happen to Japan - it could happen to them. The massacre of Japanese nationals and mob violence leading to the destruction of several foreign-owned properties did also not do much to help China's case. These factors, combined with Chiang's belicose election-campaign rhetoric and the support for China from Germany, Italy and the USSR served to worsen relations between China and the Western Powers. Pushing China even further to the hands of the very anti-western powers. Therefore with China seemingly falling into the 'non-western' camp the western powers turned to courting Japan.

You can see why they call him the "Lion" Prime Minister

Japananese reaction to the event was swift and led to the fall of the "Taisho Democracy" and the assasination of Osachi Hamaguchi. Called the "Lion Prime Minister" Hamaguchi was probably Japan's most successful democratic politician to date maintaining power for 6 long years. Under his tenure Japan successfully negotiated a 10:10:10 parity in the London Naval Conference and secured the basis for a Western Alliance. His economic policies also generated enough money to keep the militarists happy. His star rose even further with his government's assured response to the 1933 Earthquake - Hamaguchi seemed to prove that democracy could work for Japan. In 1934 he successfully introduced a universal suffrage bill which gave women the vote. However at the time of the "Shanghai Incident" Hamaguchi was overseas in South America attempting to secure some trade agreements to procure raw materials which the rapidly expanding Japanese economy needed and to bolster diplomatic relations. Although he cut his trip short, by the time he returned the Chinese had already taken Shanghai. Seeing no merit in a futile expedition to regain Shanghai he sought the support of the League of Nations and the support of the Western Powers before he took military action.

For the Japanese ultranationalists, this was not the right answer. Hamaguchi was murdered by a fanatical ultranationalist and a right-wing military junta led by Senjuro Hayashi. They used Hamaguchi's assasination as a pretext for dissolving democracy and granting themselves 'extra-constitutional rights' to 'protect the Emperor and his Realm.' It is a great historical irony that just as China was entering into the pantheon of democratic nations, Japan was leaving it and that this two would be fighting the Second Great War on opposite sides.

 

[CCA]

Ok Another update today (I'm on a creativity roll!)

Nivek - don't worry, the Second Great War isn't quite starting yet and won't be for a few more years...

erich von changstein - and more you will have!

scourge - perhaps! spoiler:

the second great war will have a Japanese, Britain and France + minor nations vs China, Germany, Italy + minor nations with Soviet and USA staying 'neutral' Or is it!!!???
End spoiler

Anyway without further ado:
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The First Kuomintang Government:

Although Chiang was shocked at the large number of votes that the "Left" received during the 1935 election - he appeared to accept the result and appointed Wang Jingwei - his ideological rival as Prime Minister. Less controversially, T.V Soong was appointed as Premier. The following is the composition of the Government of China at the beginning of 1936.

(Not all Ministers, Secretaries and Commissars are included - only the most important ones)

President and Supreme Field Marshall: Chiang Kai-Shek
Prime Minister: Wang Jingwei (Foreign Affairs Minister)
Premier: T.V Soong (Finance Minister)
Speaker of the House: Lin Sen

Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs: T.V Soong
Secretary of Economic Development: H.H Kung
Secretary of Transportation and Communication: Deng Xiaoping
Commisar for Regional Development: Soong-Ailing

Minister(Mistress?) of the Interior: Soong-Meiling (Women's Affairs )
Secretary for Ethnic Affairs: Soong-Qingling
Secretary for Labour Relations: Mao Zedong

Ministry of Defence: Chiang Kai-Shek
Secretary for War Production and Arnaments: He Yingquin
Secretary of Aviation: Feng Ru
Secretary of Maritime Affairs: Chan Chak
Secretary of the National Revolutionary Army: Bai Chonxi

Ministry for Statistics and Information: Dai Li

Ministry for Information and Propaganda: Soong-Meiling

...The First Kuomintang Government revealed how much of a 'sham' democracy was in China. Out of the 8 "Great Offices" of the realm - only one was held by an elected person - Wang Jingwei and the Foreign Affairs Ministry. The allocation of portfolio was essentially created by the diktat of Chiang who placed Wang in the Foreign Affairs portfolio in an attempt to marginalize him and neuter him as a political threat....
- Chiang: Portrait of a Dictator

...The Progressive nature of the first Kuomintang Government can be visibly seen in the appointment of women to senior level positions. China had it's first female minister in charge of the powerful Interior Ministry. Although "Madame Chiang" was arguably there only because of her husband - she served competently and was instrumental in the creation of the "people's radio" and a vast network of radio. Indeed by 1940 - over 75% of China had access to Radio - an outstanding figure....
- Madame Chiang: China's Dowager President

...My appointment to the Secretariat of Transportation and Communication greatly surprized me. I was a minor figure in the Kuomintang at the time and was very young for my age. Although I was honoured to serve China in whatever best way I could I soon found out that my appointment was a mere token one and that the real power lay in the hands of Madame Chiang...
- Deng Xiaoping

Whatever the reason for the appointment of the various ministers, secretaries and commisars - one thing was clear: They would all have to work together for the betterment of China - history was theirs for the making.

 

[CCA]

FDW - thanks

Wyragen-TXRG4P - they're not at war yet compadre OR ARE THEY


erich von changstein - Done


Sergio Van Lukenstein - Or a red herring

tjvuse - thanks

Geekhis Khan - Well yes and no - one could argue that if the Shanghai Incident had not taken place then Taisho Democracy could have continued and the Second Great War could have been fought by a Democratic Japan - on the other hand the quick way it was dispatched raises serious questions about it's long term viability. Still the positive experience of democracy have given Japanese Democrats a model to use in the aftermath of the Second Great War...

Without further ado:

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The Spanish Concession in Tianjin and the "Tianjin Far East Spanish Expeditionary Corps"

A snapshot of the small Catholic church that the Spanish established

The Spanish Concession in Tianjin, although never massive in size, scope or importance would play an important role in the Spanish Civil War. The "Humiliation Treaty" signed in Beijing in 1927 granted a small 2km area to the Spanish - these concession areas were mostly from the (returned) Italian, Belgian and Austro-Hungarian Concession zones. In 1936 the Concession zone had a population of about 10000, about a tenth of which was foreign. The Spanish didn't try and do much with the concession. A small catholic church was established by Jesuit missionaries the "Wang Hai Lou." The "Governor" of the small concession was the head of the Far East Spanish Expeditionary Corps: General Francisco Franco.

Francisco Franco in better times.

The "Tianjn Far East Spanish Expeditionary Corps" was a small force of 100 men - mostly Morrocans with a small auxilary force of Chinese. They were tasked with keeping order in the city and because of the small population and placid and 'hands off' nature of Spanish rule were mostly succesful in doing so.

This was despite the state of the Corps Commander and Governor. Francisco Franco had stupped into a narcotic stupor since being 'exiled' to Tianjin for his role in suppresing the Asturias Strike. Although he was a useful tool for Lerroux to suppress the anarchists - Franco was inflammatory to keep around in Spain - so although he was formally given a promotion in order to lead a 'Corps' - his actual command of 100+ soldiers was negligable.

Exile seems to have broken Franco's spirit - he was known to frequent opium dens and brothels in Tianjin. Given the mass of anecdotal evidence we have of his 'adventures' it is very surprising that no news of this seems to have gotten to Spain. This is tribute to the personal loyalty and affection that Franco's soldiers had for him.

Word of a military uprising reached Franco's ear in July 1 1936 seems to have been a catalyst for his recovery. In his own words: "all of a sudden, I saw a flashing blind light and the voice of angels singing... I saw a disturbing vision... Angels carrying the banner of the Republic being mowed down...It was then I knew that I was destined to save the Republic." Franco declared for the Republic two days later - however he could do little as he was stuck literally more than 2000 miles away with no way to get to Spain. Franco however, was filled with a brand new determination to save what he now referred to as his "Beloved Republic."

- Franco: Saviour of the Republic

Conventional 'histories' of Francisco Franco - being little more than thinly veiled hagiographies tend to focus on the 'quasi-religious' aspect of Franco's 'mission' to save the Republic. However recently opened archives in Nanking reveal that Franco was in fact subject of an intensive campaign to manipulate and 'brainwash' him. The papers reveal that Franco had been under surveillance by the Census Bureau for quite some time. Franco's addiction to opiates and other narcotics gave the Bureau leverage over Franco and his 'religious vision' seems to have been staged or planted on his mind subconciously using drugs and mind manipulation techniques. That the Republic still continues to celebrate Franco Day despite this coming to light is a symbol of the moral bankruptcy and decay of bourgeioise Republicanism.

- International Socialist Review, July 1 2010

 

[CCA]

Back again!

The Vulture - thanks The Vulture. YOu might say on steroirds!

danderson - Or you might ask - how might he help China...

Wyragen-TXRG4P - Exile to China leads to drug binge = hearing voices in his head that tell him to side with the Republic

trekchu - It's a global publication I believe... much more prominent in this TL..

Nivek - Thanks Nivek. More butterflies to come as a result of this...

demonkangaroo - Bump receivediditoo

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MEGA-SPOILERS AHEAD

The Spanish Civil War
(36-45)

The Spanish Civil War was one of the most drawn out, confused and chaotic civil wars in the history of manking. What was initially a military coup which resulted in two sides fighting eventually resulted in what most political science professors call a "clusterfuck." The end of the war was a reflection of the mutual exhaustion of all parties and the 'victor' was really the last man standing.

The Civil War had four distinct phases:

The situation on August. By the end of the year the Republicans would hold all of the south except Moroco.

Phase 1: Brother Against Brother (1936)
The first phase of the civil war began with a failed military coup attempt. Tensions were already running high in the fragile Republic and the Coup Attempt on 1 July 1936 set the scene for an explosion of tension. Military officers under the overall leadership of Marshall Senjuro attempted to take over key centers of communication and government. However, the Azana government responded decisively arming many of the 'popular front groups.' However what would be now known as the "Militarists" or "Nationalists" successfully gained control of large areas of the country. By the end of December - key front lines had been drawn. It looked as if the conflict would settle into a sort of "stalemate"

Red line = Revolutionary Spain
BLue line = Militarist Spain
Green line = Republican Spain

Phase 2: Outside Intervention (1937-38)
The key factor that would move the conflict out of it's stalemate situation was international intervention. Although foreign aid was dribbling in at the beginning of the conflict - the realization that Spain would play a crucial role in what many saw as an inevitable conflict spurred the powers to keep their allies supplied. Militarist Spain was equipped lavishly by her Italian and German backers who saw Spain as a 'testing ground' for new equipment. Republican Spain was less fortunate, Soviet Aid was forthcoming - but the year would make clear that this came at a price. Soviet cadres began a "popular insurrection" against the Azana Madrid Government, althought they failed to seize control of the apparatus of state they were able to tear a chunk of Spain away from the Republic. The "Revolutionary Spain" was a curious mix of Basque conservatives, Valladoid Anarchists and Moscow-line Communists. Republican Spain was less fortunate in receiving aid...although the Chinese Republic had permitted General Francisco Franco to return to Spain at the head of a "volunteer Army" of 5000 Chinese China was less able to suppy the Republicans due to the sheer geographical distance. That being said, Francisco Franco was able to pursue key military reforms and strategies that allowed the outnumbered and squeezed Republican Army to hold the line. However as the end of year approached many doubted the Republic's ability to survive, squeezed in between two hostile powers...

In the end, France and England choose to side with the Republic - which was purged of it's radical element. The two alternatives to the Republic were bleak - a Soviet-controlled and hostile Communist Spain or a Axis-controlled and hostile Fascist Spain. A "Moderate" Democratic Spain was far preferrable to the alternatives. This is not to say that France and Spain lavished the Republicans with a flood of aid - however the previously closed faucet began to drip - providing the Republic the lifeline it needed. However - France and England could have done more if they were not distracted by a wider conflict. At the end of the 1938 - the borders were the same as it had been at the start of the year.

Phase Four: Great War (1938-44)
The outbreak of the Second Great War was supposed to change things and it did initially. The outbreak of the war led to an outpouring of military aid from all sides in an attempt to end the war as quickly as possible. In reality the military aid just led to greater mortaility rates as men and material were spent on futile attacks. The rest of the Great War went by and the Civil War rolled on in the trenches, the cities and the barrios. Ultimately stalemate was the only realistic option as the sides were evenly matched.

Phase Five: End Game (1944-45)
The Spanish Civil War ended as part of the American-mediated Armistice which finished the Second Great War. The Treaty of Madrid created a decentralized Spain where the Central government lost much of it's teeth. The decentralization was an affirmation that during the course of the Civil War and the Great War Spain had become effectively three Spains. The ensuing Cold War would see whether or not the tenous peace would be kept...

Next Update: 1938 - For want of a shoelace

 

[CCA]

Shadow Knight - Thanks

brokenman - Thanks as well

Geekhis Khan - Haha - You need to update your TL GK

Fenrir_Angerboda - It is back!

Wyragen-TXRG4P - We shall see I think the NRA is well-trained enough to take to the field without the aid of "Advisor" generals - although old Falky is still in China of course. And you are assuming of course that Germany does declare war and it is a global struggle

Nivek - Yep - the only losers of the civil war is where it happens. The Chinese, French, Italians, Germans, British and Soviets all get a chance to practice all their fancy new equipment.

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Anyway - I need to backtrack on the promised update - I've realized I haven't actually talked about the year 1936 and 1937 at all

So without further ado:

The massive Olympic stadium in Berlin

1936 - Year of the Olympics

The 1936 Berlin Olympics would be one of the most politicized affairs in Olympic History. It was essentially set up to be a 'puff piece' to showcase the vigours of the New Germany that the National Socialists were creating. It began with much fanfare and triumph as representatives from all over the world (with the exception of Spain and the USSR) sent delegations to compete in a highly prestigeous event.

Jesse Owens looking mildly sad that he didn't get the Gold Medal.

... An example of the degree of controversy which would murk the Olympics was the cirucmstances surrounding the victory of Poh Kimseng who's amazing victory in the 100M finals over Jesse Owens would lead him to be dubbed "The Flying Horse." Poh and Jesse finished the race at seemingly the same time - however the committee decided to award the gold medal to Poh. Some claim to this day that Hitler personally browbeat the committee into giving Poh the medal. Nontheless the Chinese olympic contingent did very well in the games - sweeping the Shooting events (3 gold medals) - the fact that the Olympic Shooting contingent consisted of NRA or ex-NRA men did not escape the notice or attention of the World's press. The Chinese contingent also took the Freestyle Bantamweight Gold medal. All in all the Chinese contingent came away with 6 Gold medals, 5 silver medals and 9 bronze medals placing a respectable 8th in the total table. This was not a bad performance considering that the 1932 Olympic team did not even manage to win a single bronze medal.

...It was perhaps a symptom of the sexism of the times that Li Sen's uncontroversial and resounding victory in the Women's 100 Meters was almost completely ignored in favour of Poh's contested 'triumph'....

China's victory was all the more important in that they managed to 'beat' Japan's total of 6 Gold, 4 Silver and 8 Bronze - a fact that Chinese media screamed for a few months - worsening already fragile Sino-Japanese relations. In fact, Dutch-Kiwi historian Van Veen has launched what is known as the "Olympic Thesis" and stated that the Second Great War was the result of Chinese hubris leading to the Second Sino-Japanese War which would flare up into the general conflagration that was the Second Great War. But that was neither here nor there. Apart from a few minor incidents and the storm of controversy surrounding Poh's "victory." The Berlin Olympics was a huge propaganda coup for National Socialist German.

Little would they know the storm clouds that were looming over the horizon in 1937...

Next update: 1937 -

 

[CCA]

1937 - The Offensives of False Hope

"We have only to kick in the door and the whole rotting structure will come tumbling down"
President Chiang Kai-Shek

The outbreak of war was an interesting experience for China - because technically speaking they were not 'in a state of War.' The Chiang government had never accepted Manchurian independence - only doing so at gunpoint. Now that China was strong - she was continuing the Northern Expedition. This meant that the Manchurian government was not legally treated as existing - any captured prisoners of war would be treated as 'liberated' Chinese citizens.

When the conflict broke out on May 1 1937 there was a false sense of optimism among the ranks of the Kuomintang that the war would be quick, short and decisive - war planning had only been taken up to Christmas. The whole nation believed - and was encouraged to believe that Manchuria was in a state of unreadiness - and even Civil War. Before the Third Northern Expedition Started Emperor Zhang Zhoulin and his Prime Minister played elaborate games of disunity with Yan Xishan apparently accepting the terms before being 'sacked' by the Emperor. This - along with events such as the staged desertion of entire companies lulled the Chinese leadership into a false sense of security. Although the Bureau of Information and Statistics encouraged caution - this was mostly ignored in the face of evidence that seemed to support their ideological mindset. China would receive some very painful lessons in the early days of the conflict...

______________________________________________________________

Lieutenant Fong Chen-Yieuh huddled in position his eyes lit with excitement. The time had come to unify China and he was to be part of it! He nearly shook with excitement as he clutched his machine pistol. He looked around him and saw that the men around him were all excited too.

Fong thought he was too mature for this sort of thing. Too grown up, he had been bloodied - by the Xinhai Revolution, The First and Second Northern Expedition and he had recently come back from the stalemate of the Spanish Civil War. He has seen men brutally maimed and killed in horrific ways and women and children too... he thought uneasily of Madrid.

But Madrid was 2000 miles away and Fong was here now. He was a rare breed - a career soldier who had fought with the Kuomintang since 1911. He was no spring chicken anymore but he was the right sort of age to be commanding a section of men. He rose through the ranks through sheer bravery - as well as by virtue of survival.

Artillery fire broke the eerie silence of the night as Chinese guns marked the start of the Third Northern Expedition. All was going to plan... Fong checked his watch. 15 minutes of this and then we go...

15 minutes passed. Flares shot up and lit the night sky. Fong blew his whistle and leaped over the parapet. "Advance for China!" he screamed.

Type 1 Tanks formed a core component of the May Offensives...

Ahead of Fong Type 1 tanks clattered into action, their mechanical dim adding to the clatter of the night. There were no enemies around... Fong pondered susipciously... This was too easy - it had to be a trap somewhere...

Fong was right. All around him planted explosives ripped up the ground - it was almost biblically with hellfire and brimstone opening up cracks on the ground and destroying the vanguard of the Nationalist advance...Miraculously Fong was unhurt. He was beginning to compose himself from the shock wheh shells started exploding all around him... Fong was unhurt no more.

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"The opening salvo of the Third Northern Expedition resulted in failure for the Nationalists... at this point it should have been clear that they had encountered an enemy far more willing and able to fight than original. But they would have none of it. The rest of May would be spent on futile offensives against the Yan Xishan wall with blood, bones and bullets proving unable to scratch the hard, reinforced masonry of the walls... Gradually it was realized that a new strategy was needed...But this was not after the whittling down of the elite "Shock Route Armies" in pointless and futile offensives...The death toll has been put down to tens of thousands of China's most elite fighting men squandered in the opening days of a bloody and destructive conflict...The tank and the aeroplane which had promised to end the stalemates of The Great War only seemed to add more ways to die...By the end of July it was clear that there would be stalemate...Chiang and his War Council would deliberate and form a new strategy against what was now proven to be a very determined and able foe..."

- History of the Second Great War
David Lio

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"...Our work was quite a tedious affair. We would load up the mortar, adjust the position slightly, fire and reload. It was at the same time a time consuming process...Each mine shell took about half an hour to reload and shoot...Occasionally there would be the odd airplane that flew overhead - we paid no attention to those and they paid no attention to us... Although our jobs were boring - we know that our work in scattering mines all over the North China Sea was important in denying access to the Japanese invaders..."

- Private Dinghy Yu, Special Mortar Unit
From: Voices from the Second Great War

___________________________________________________________

Pete McGill was bored in Manila. Inevitably he contrasted the high life in Shanghai and in China compared to the sleepy, stuffy conservatism in what was one of the most Roman Catholic countries in the world. There was literally nothing to do for an off-duty American Marine other than listen to the radio.

And so Pete did, albeit halfheartedly "...Fighting is reproted in the desets of Inner Mongolia...meanwhile there seems to have been a lul of fighting outside of Beiping in Hopei province...The Chinese Foreign Minister has said that the troops are 'completing preparations"

Pete snorted. The Chinks had been 'preparing' for about three months now. It probably meant that they just couldn't break past the Manchu's. Or more likely it was some goddam Japs. The Japs had been renting out armies to the Manchurians calling them "Volunteers." The Chinese Embassy had originally complained but when an angry mob burnt down the embassy - and the hapless diplomat to a crisp there was no-one and nothing to complain about anymore.

Yawning, Pete dazed steadily off into the hot muggy air of Manila while a hundred miles away from him people died....

PS: Yes I am taking Turtledove characters. I feel no regrets . Plus it's hard coming up with names....

 

[CCA]

Responses

Adam - well, keep in mind that the most mechanized army in the world won't stand up to what is the Asian equivalent of the maginot line. And you're right - the NRA isn't fully mechanized. Also the IJA aint involved yet...officialy...

demonkangaroo - Friend. or foe Thanks for the link...

tjvuse - The Soviet Union is officially friendly with China...For now.

Hendryk - Thanks. Yeah - I've just been reading a lot of books about China and it's headhurting the number of different ways people have translated Chiang Kai-shek, Chiang Kaishek, Tchaing - K'ai-shek, Jiang Jieshi...etc etc...

Nivek - Well one can hope that with the slaughter and bloodshet of the Second Great War people will mean it when they say "Never Again"....

1930sman - I too would like to see good maps - unfortunately I am bereft of good China maps... I'll try and include one in the coming update.

TimelineExplorer - It does...

Fenrir_Angerboda - Maybe in the next planned TL "Chiang Kai-shek goes to Lithuania" featuring a restored Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth...

Vince - Don't worry - I'll do one instead about a Chinese submarine captain operating off Japan's most northern coast and have him complain about...frostbite.

Wyragen-TXRG4P - You're assuming of course that China pwns these countries.... The Second Great War won't be easy for China.

arrowiv - Well you're assuming that the American Public or even political establishment take sides in the Entete vs Axis war. Isolationist sentiments will remain even stronger in this TL with both sides featuring democracies and dictatorships.

TimelineExplorer - JoeMcCarthy ultra liberal senator

Nivek - Not the peanut farmer...


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1937 - State of Play

Why was it that the National Revolutionary Army's most elite elements were unable to make even the smalest of headway against what Chiang dismissed before the war as "bandit rabble." In order to understand this connondrum we must examine both the states of both Kuomintang China and the Manchurian Empire...

China - Deluded Peace
The first crucial factor for the Kuomintang was that China was technically not in a state of war. This meant that the Army was at peacetime activity and that the economy was functioning at peacetime levels. There was honestly a belief that the Manchurian Empire would collapse and that all the NRA needed to do was provide a police force to keep the peace in Manchuria. The events that transpired would reveal this belief to be - tragically flawed at best...

The peacetime posture of China also had effects down the line. Because China was at "peace" and the economy was at peacetime function - constitutionally Chiang's government did not possess the capability to effectively mobilize the Army or create efficient supply lines. The Government could not commandeer property, it could not implement mobilization orders, it could not streamline the function and work of an Army. The most obvious example was that the Beiping-Nanking railway line and highways still teemed with civilian traffic - severely disrupting the flow of supplies...

Obviously this had the deleterious flow-on effect of reduced effectiveness of the NRA as their forces were undersupplied for the task at hand. The "undeclared war" also meant that the Maritime Forces and the Battleships could not utilize their powerful guns to level the Yan Xishan line due to Japan insisting that it would not tolerate further 'violations' of the Treaty of Beijing...

Chiang was caught in a bind. He had accumulated diplomatic prestige by refusing to acknowledge that it was a "war." He could not back down without China losing serious face. On the otherhand he was constitutionally bound to fight with 'both hands tied' - as he put in his diary.

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Manchuria, on the other hand was a nation fully prepared and ready for the task of fighting a war. Manchuria had covert aid from Britain and France and open aid from Japan in her bid to defend herself from what many saw was an 'inevitable war...'

Zhang had invested heavily into the military and kept up a heightened state of moblization at all times with an intense training schedule consisting of live-fire military exercises. Japanese troops were often invited to take part in these events. At the staff level, coordination between Japan and Manchuria was excellent with plans being laid out that covered every detail ranging from ammunition ammounts to prophylactic sizes...

A section of the Yan Xishan line. They were often built to use the natural terrain to the defenders advantage.

...The most visible and powerful sign of the strenght of the Manchurian Imperial Army would undoubtedly be the Yan Xishan line. Built with much help from Franco-British Engineers - the line would prove it's worth in the early months of the Northern Expedition. The Yan Xishan line contained tons and tons of reinforced concrete with large artillery casements and machine gun positions poised to annihilate even modern armies....

...But it was not just in the materiel and the manpower that Manchuria was ready in. Manchurians had also feed fanatically indoctrinated to believe that the Kuomintang's intentions for Manchuria was to murder, pillage and rape. This meant that Manchus - at least in the early days of the war, would frequently fight fanatically and with zeal...

...After having examined China's manifest unprepardness and weakness contrasted with Manchuria's almost fanatical readiness to start the war. It should not be surprizing why the first few months of the Northern Expedition would go so badly for China... Little did China know that things were going to get a whole lot worse...

 

[CCA]

1937 - A New Hope for the Republic July-October 1937

...By July it was clear that the May Offensives had stalled. A new approach was needed and it was obvious that attemtpting to invade Manchuria with merely 120000 troops was a foolish one that was a result of flawed intelligence. However, it was unclear at best what could be done next. Constitutionally, the Kuomintang lacked the mandate to mobilize it's vast reserves.

...Chiang's solution was to send elements of the Standing Army to reinforce the Chinese lines facing the Yan Xishan line. To avoid the constituonal prohibition of mobilizing the Reserve Army - Chiang called for "Volunteers" - and the response was enthusiastic with 2 million men flocking to the NRA standard by the end of the month...

The National Revolutionary Army "Adam" Monster-Gun in Action.


After conferring with the informal "War council" with his foreign advisors. Chiang decided to level the Yan Xishan line using super-heavy artillery. These "Monster-guns" would be convereted from the "mine throwers" which were being used to fling mines into the ocean to forestall any Japanese attempts at invasion. The first successful conversion to the "Monster-gun" from a mine thrower was dubbed "Adam." The engineering and initial crew of Adam consisted of German and Chinese engineers and soldiers with the Germans taking the lead role. Many of the Germans serving on the "Adam" crew had experience with the "Paris Gun" which was a super-long range artillery piece that could shell Paris. The other half was a Chinese crew of a "mine-thrower battalion."

- The Second Great War: China Front

" My crew was selected to take part in the first ever conversion of our mine-thrower unit to what we would later call "Monster-guns." Truth be told, I didn't have a lot to do as most of the work was done by the Germans in demonstrating it to us. There was only a handful of Chinese who actively participated in the initial test fire...Most of us were content to watch the awesome sight of an extremely large shell being loaded with the help of the crane...once this was complete there was some slight elevation...Captain Hu instructed us to cover our ears...The gun went off with a thundrous roar, several men close to the Monster had severe ear damage despite having covered their ears...This was instrumental in later getting proper equipment such as earplugs...For now though it was a glorious sight to watch..."

- Private Dinghy Yu, Test Monster-Gun Adam Unit
From: Voices of the Second Great War

"...As a sniper, I had perhaps one of the best vantage points a sniper could ask for - an elevated position overlooking exposed trench lines. I could snipe at will from my tower without risking retribution and I often made kills of 10 or more a day... I remember very clearly that day. I had my sniper scoped to a clueless Major General who seemed to be interested in inspecting the line than for his own safety. I was about so squeeze the trigger when an almighty crash shook me from my position and flung me hard against the other side of my tower...When I came to I looked out of my tower and found that something, or someone had caused a pillbox to uproot from it's position and slam with violent force against the tower..."

- Lieutenant Yong Yi
From: A Sniper's War.

... With ADAM having proven to be successful, Chiang ordered the conversion of more "mine throwers" to the "Monster-gun" type. This combined with the increase of numbers of the National Revolutionary Army seemed poised to end the stalemate, it only seemed to be a matter of time before the vaunted Yan Xishan line could be smashed to rubble...Manchuria and her Japanese allies were looking for a speedy way to deal China a large blow to force them back to the negotiating table...