UNDERSTANDING CURRENT CHINESE FOREIGN POLICY BY CONSIDERING CHINESE HISTORY
This Issue's Contents:
Lesons from Chinese History for Current Events
News
Videos
Learn chinese
Anglo-Chinese Strategic Coordination and the Amur valley (work in progress)
Qin and Chu (feudal history: references)
Qin and Wang Ming (modern history: references)
LESSONS
You know? If you want to prevent a war between the USA and China maybe then you must learn Chinese and actually study Chinese history. This will lead to insights which solely focusing on Western sources would miss. Yes, that's a lot of work, but nothing grand is accomplished without great efforts. Otherwise, you have to take my word for it.
*
The failure of alliance politics among the rivals to Qin during the warring states era may explain China's go-it-alone approach to international relations. Basically, during the warring states there were several rival clan-nations seeking to dominate all China. Qin finally emerged victorious, and it did so in part because the alliances formed by its contenders were weak, with low trust, no loyalty, easily broken. And so China draws a very different lesson about alliance politics as compared to the west, where we see Marcus Tullius Cicero claiming, correctly, "Our Roman Republic, by defending its allies, has got possession of the world.". This statement by Tully explains the entire path of the Anglo-Americans going forward, just as Qin's success at splitting alliances and setting them against each other may explain China's go it alone view of the world and consequent mercantilist neutrality, when not outright isolationism. Strategists of Anglo-Chinese unity-in-conflict (a Maoist idea) need to consider not only Chinese ideology (Marxism-Leninism-Maoism) We also need a good grasp of China's long complex history and Chinese language. China's experience in Qin unification leads to the aphorism "Unite with distant allies against near rivals".
NEWS
https://irk.today/2024/04/16/massovyy-vzryv-provedut-segodnya-na-karere-v-shelehovskom-rayone/
I haven't reported about all the Russian passenger flights that get forced to reroute due to various component failures, that are a result of sanctions work. Literally every day a Russian airliner or three has to make an emergency landing, sometimes in the middle of a field, usually by being rerouted to the nearest airfield. I am waiting for the inevitably catastrophic crash that kills a tube filled with orcs. Tasty!
VIDEOS
"MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE”: UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES
This is just one obvious bloody stupid example why I hate liberal internationalists. Greey fucking opportunists with hubris and lacking forethought, when not outright dishonest.
Wars are won by the side that makes fewer mistakes, the side which plans and prepares better for all contingencies, the side with well-trained highly motivated, properly equipped soldiers, and the side which can train replacements for the fallen, the side which learns the hard lessons of war faster. Learn from your mistakes.
Before the other fella does.
LEARN CHINESE
Learn chinese and good things happen. Ignore chinese and you stumble and make mistakes.
This 生 is a HIGHLY STYLIZED and SIMPLIFIED picture of a sprouting plant in spring, it symbolizes the idea of LIFE, BIRTH
主 this is a picture of a king's candelabra it means OWN and says ZHU
丰 this is a picture of a fully flowering fertile plant it means FENG
zh/sh/ch/q are sound shifts
Zh(u)+(f)eng=SHENG 生 says SHENG
Now you know how Chinese spelling works.
You also now know how to remember Chinese characters: break them down into their components and search through them for semantic, phonetic, and pictographic content, then relate characters to each other.
A Historic Key to Chinese Foreign Policy: Uniting with Distant Allies against Nearby Rivals
This is a draft, a work in progress.
Thesis statement: "In pursuit of Chinese grand strategy, a strategic partnership with the United States holds the key to regaining control of the Amur Valley and ensuring China's security and dominance in Northern Asia, thus providing a responsible productive alternative to Russian criminality and violence."
I. Introduction
The Amur Valley, historically Chinese territory that was conquered by Russia, is a region rich in natural resources and strategic importance. It has been a point of contention between China and Russia for centuries. As China looks to assert its dominance and secure its borders, cooperation with the United States will prove key to expanding Chinese influence and sovereignty over historic Chinese territories occupied and mal-governed by Russia, which are currently repopulated by "illegal" abused Chinese people, notably the Amur valley.
A. Historical Context
China has a long history of pursuing territorial expansion and consolidation. From the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, China has sought to expand its borders and assert its power in the region. This has often involved forming alliances with distant powers to defeat nearby rivals.
B. The Concept of Unity with Distant Allies
The idea of uniting with distant allies to defeat nearby rivals is not a new one in Chinese strategic thought. In fact, it is fundamental to the Chinese state. "Uniting with distant allies to defeat nearby rivals" was first observed in the unification of China under the Qin dynasty that defeated other rival clans also seeking to unify ancient China. Qin won out in the end because it was able to unite with distant allies to to defeat its nearby rivals. Thereby, Qin "ate the elephant one bite at a time", and unified all China.
C. Current Tensions in the Amur Valley
The Amur Valley is currently a source of tension between China and Russia. Disputes over territorial boundaries and resource rights have led to military buildups and saber-rattling in the region. Now that most of Russia's military is occupied with its foolish failing war in Ukraine it would be comparatively easy for China to retake those lands in the "Russian" far east that Russia stole from China.
D. The Importance of Unity between China and the United States
To address these tensions and ensure China's security and dominance in the region, unity between China and the United States in strategic cooperation against Russia is essential. The United States, with its military and economic power, can provide China with the support it needs to assert its control over the Amur Valley. At the same time, China can offer the United States access to the region's vast resources and quickly cause the Russian Federation to lose in Ukraine and collapse in rebellions and revolutions, permanently removing a deadly dangerous long-term strategic threat to U.S. security: Russia and the USA have been locked in constant conflicts since 1917, at least. Novgorod would remain an arctic power, but would be far too weak to seriously challenge other arctic powers.
However, Sino-American cooperation against Russia is not without its challenges. Differences in political systems, cultural values, and strategic goals may make cooperation difficult. Additionally, the United States' historical ties to China's rivals in East Asia, notably Japan and Taiwan complicate efforts to build a united front.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of this partnership make it a worthwhile pursuit for both China and the United States. By working together, we can ensure stability and prosperity in the Amur Valley and beyond, restructuring the war-criminal state known as the "Russian" Federation.
Strategic cooperation between China and the United States holds the key to regaining control of the Amur Valley and ensuring China's security and dominance in the region. Through a deep understanding of Chinese strategic thought and a commitment to cooperation, this strategic partnership will be a powerful force for peace and prosperity in East Asia, indeed for the entire world, and a marked contrast to the soon to be former "Russian" Federation.
II. Understanding Chinese Grand Strategy
China's approach to geopolitics and expansionism has been shaped by its long history and strategic priorities. To understand the significance of strategic coordination with the United States to permanently defeat a dangerous long term enemy and the importance of the Amur Valley in Chinese strategic thinking, it is necessary to examine China's historical approaches to geopolitics and expansionism.
A. Overview of Chinese Historical Approaches to Geopolitics and Expansionism
Throughout its history, China has pursued a variety of strategies to expand its territory and assert its power in the region. Throughout dynastic China, up to and including Republican and Communist China, China has sought to expand its borders and assert its dominance through military conquest, cultural assimilation such as tributary systems, and diplomatic negotiations like treaties.
B. Analysis of China's Current Strategic Priorities
China's current strategic priorities are centered on territorial integrity and regional dominance. This is reflected in its foreign policy, which emphasizes the protection of its sovereignty and territorial claims, as well as the promotion of economic development and regional stability. China seeks access to resources and autarchy in energy, possibly also in foodstuffs now. However, China does not resort to terrorism or war and, unlike the soon to be former "Russian" Federation is not a thoroughly corrupt criminal regime with a long history of war-crimes. Russia is threat. China is a challenger. The one is deadly and must be destroyed. The other is a competitor and can be matched.
C. Examination of the Significance of the Amur Valley in Chinese Strategic Thinking
The Amur Valley holds great strategic significance for China because of its rich natural resources, historical significance, Chinese populace, and location. The region is home to vast reserves of oil, natural gas, and other minerals, making it an important source of energy and raw materials for China's growing economy. Additionally, the Amur Valley's location along the border with Russia makes it a critical strategic asset in China's efforts to secure its borders and assert its dominance in the region.
1. Previous Instances of Alliances with Distant Powers
Throughout its history, China has formed partnerships with distant powers to defeat nearby rivals. Qin regularly forced alliances with the neighboring states of Han, Wei, or Zhao (or any two of them) to defeat the other states. Towards the end of the Warring States period, Qin exploited the "horizontal alliance" strategy, allying with other states to participate in Qin's ascendancy and defeat the states one by one. Qin sought "merely" to disrupt anti-Qin alliances with obvious lessons for NATO & AUKUS. Bewar diplomatic “friendship” aimed at splitters!
2. Benefits of Alliances with Distant Powers
Historically, Chinese partnerships with distant powers have been beneficial to China's strategic goals by providing the military and economic support China needs to assert its control over the region. By aligning itself with more powerful nations, China has been able to project its power and influence in the region, notably defeating Japan and fighting the USA and then Russia to a stalemate, while also protecting its sovereignty and territorial claims.
3. Parallels to the Current Situation in the Amur Valley
The current situation in the Amur Valley is similar to previous instances in Chinese history where partnerships with distant powers were formed to defeat nearby rivals. By aligning itself with the United States, China can gain access to the political and economic support it needs to assert its control over the region and protect its territorial claims.
The Amur Valley holds strategic significance for China because of its rich natural resources, historic fact that it was China, and its population many of whom are Chinese, whether "illegal" aliens or who never left after Russia stole Chinese lands. By understanding China's historical approaches to geopolitics and expansionism, as well as its current strategic priorities, it is clear that strategic coordination with the United States is a key component of China's grand strategy for territorial integrity and regional dominance. Through this partnership, China can gain the support it needs to regain control over the Amur Valley and secure its borders, while also promoting economic development and global stability.
III. The Russian Threat
Russia poses a significant threat to China. Russia and China have had several wars, often to China's detriment. Russia's militarism, aggressivity and policies of deception and disinformation regularly backfire and leave Russia more-or-less at China's mercy. Why be benevolent to your victimizer? Yet for these very reasons Russia remains an unstable dangerous risk. Russia nearly has nothing left to lose and there has already become a pariah state. A united front between China and the United States against Russia can counter the threat the mafia-state poses to China and ensure global stability and prosperity, enabling the entire world to return to the business production, prosperity, and peace.
A. Current Military and Economic Capabilities of Russia
Russia has a significant military presence in the Amur Valley, including troops, tanks, and artillery. Additionally, Russia has invested heavily in the development of its energy and transportation infrastructure in the region, giving it a strong economic foothold. However, Russian military presence in the Amur has been greatly weakened by the war in Ukraine, with many Russians formerly stationed there transferred to Ukraine to make up for Russia's casulties in Ukraine.
B. Aggressive Actions and Expansionist Policies
Russia has taken a number of aggressive actions and expansionist policies, including the annexation of Crimea, a war of conquest in Ukraine, military buildups along the border with China, and the construction of military bases and infrastructure in the region. These actions have raised concerns among China and its neighbors about Russia's intentions and the potential for conflict in the region.
C. A United Front between China and the United States
A united front between China and the United States can counter the Russian threat and ensure stability and prosperity in the Amur Valley. By aligning themselves with each other, China and the United States can pool their economic resources, share information, and coordinate their actions against the Muscovite Mafia.
Additionally, a united front between China and the United States can promote economic development and regional stability in the Amur Valley. By working together, China and the United States can invest in infrastructure projects, promote trade and investment, and support economic growth in the region. Effective cooperation and coordination in response to Russia's ongoing war crime will set the stage for even greater cooperation and coordination in trade, development, and anti-terrorism.
The Russian threat to global security is real and significant. However, a united front between China and the United States can counter this threat and ensure stability and prosperity in the region. By aligning themselves with each other, China and the United States can pool their military and economic resources, share intelligence and information, and coordinate their actions in the region. This united front can also promote economic development and regional stability, making the Amur Valley a more secure and prosperous place for all.
IV. Assessing the Role of Distant Allies
In the pursuit of Chinese grand strategy, strategic coordination with the United States as "a distant ally" will greatly aid China in regaining control of the Amur Valley and ensuring China's security and dominance over whatever remains of the "Russian" Federation after it collapses in rebellions, consequent to its failed invasion of Ukraine. This is because of the geopolitical landscape, which identifies Russia as a nearby rival, and the strategic benefits of aligning with the United States.
A. Analysis of the Geopolitical Landscape
The geopolitical landscape in the Amur Valley is complex, with China and Russia sharing a long and contested border. This border has been a source of tension and conflict throughout history, with both sides vying for control of the region up to and including local border wars. Russia is China's nearby rival, with the potential to threaten China in Mongolia, North Korea, or Manchuria.
B. Evaluation of the Strategic Benefits of Aligning with the United States
The strategic benefits of aligning with the United States as a distant ally are numerous. The United States has global military and economic power, which can be leveraged to counter the Russian threat and support China's strategic goals in regaining the Amur Valley and securing peace and prosperity for Central Asia, at least, if not all Eurasia! Additionally, the United States has a status quo power's interest in maintaining stability and prosperity in the region, making it a reliable and committed partner unlike crazy/drunk/stupid and in all cases -- criminally violent -- Russia.
C. Discussion of Historical Precedents
Strategic partnership with the United States as a distant ally against Russia is not a new concept in Chinese history. There are many historical precedents for "distant allies against near rivals" in Chinese history: notably, the Sino-Soviet split and the rapprochement with the United States during the Cold War.
During the Sino-Soviet split, China and the Soviet Union experienced a significant deterioration in their relationship, with both sides vying for leadership in the Communist world. This split created an opportunity for China to align with the United States, leading to the rapprochement during the Cold War.
The rapprochement with the United States during the Cold War was a strategic move by China to counter the Soviet threat and secure its borders. This partnership proved to be beneficial for both sides, with China gaining access to American diplomatic and economic support, and the United States gaining a valuable partner against the USSR.
The partnership with the United States as a "distant ally" -- a strategic cooperation partner -- is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. The geopolitical landscape identifies Russia as a nearby rival, and the strategic benefits of aligning with the United States make it a reliable and committed partner. Historical precedents, such as the Sino-Soviet split and the rapprochement with the United States during the Cold War, demonstrate the potential for such partnerships to be successful and beneficial for both sides.
V. The Case for Unity with the United States
The partnership between China and the United States is crucial for the pursuit of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. This partnership is based on shared interests, mutual benefits, and the potential to address concerns and objections.
A. Shared Interests in Regional Stability
China and the United States share a common interest in maintaining regional stability in the Amur Valley. This stability is essential for economic growth, security, and the well-being of the people in the region. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability and prevent conflict, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
B. Mutual Benefits of Strategic Partnership
A strategic partnership between China and the United States can bring numerous benefits to both nations. In terms of trade, the two countries can increase economic cooperation, promote investment, and expand market access. In terms of security, the partnership can provide a deterrent to potential aggressors, ensuring the safety and security of both nations. In terms of technology, the two countries can collaborate on research and development, sharing knowledge and expertise to drive innovation and growth.
C. Concerns and Objections
There are potential concerns and objections to the partnership between China and the United States. These concerns include issues related to human rights, trade imbalances, and military tensions. However, these concerns can be addressed through open and honest communication, mutual respect, and a commitment to finding common ground.
For example, the two countries can work together to address human rights concerns, by promoting democracy, rule of law, and respect for human dignity. They can also address trade imbalances by increasing economic cooperation, promoting investment, and expanding market access. In terms of military tensions, the two countries can engage in confidence-building measures, such as military-to-military dialogues, and arms control agreements. There is a tacit de facto understanding that China will not invade Taiwan and that the United States will not foster or otherwise cause a Taiwanese declaration of independence: Taiwan is far more useful to China as a trade and investment entrepot than as a ruined wrecked land filled with dead Chinese people.
Strategic partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. This partnership is based on shared interests, mutual benefits, and the potential to address concerns and objections. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
VI. The Importance of the United States as an Strategic Partner
Strategic coordination between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. The United States is an important partner for China because of military capabilities, economic and technological advantages, and its soft power and diplomacy.
A. Military Capabilities and Strategic Interests
The United States has significant military capabilities and strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region. The United States is committed to maintaining global stability and security while promoting human rights and economic development world-wide, as well as a powerful military capacity. This military presence can provide a deterrent against Russian aggressors, ensuring the safety and security of China and its neighbors, enabling thereby a grand pacific century of peace and prosperity. Russia's failing and flailing war on Ukraine is the world's last imperialist war of genocidal colonization. It shall be followed by even greater globalization, thanks to constant technological progress and a global desire for common prosperity, that is the desire of all people and peoples for peace, production, and prosperity.
B. Economic and Technological Advantages
The United States is a global leader in technology and innovation, and has a strong and dynamic economy. By cooperating with the United States, China can benefit from access to advanced technology, research and development, and investment opportunities. This cooperation can drive innovation and growth, and help to create a more prosperous and dynamic region.
C. Soft Power and Diplomacy
Soft power and diplomacy play an important role in strengthening the partnership between China and the United States. By engaging in cultural exchanges, educational programs, and people-to-people dialogues, the two countries can build trust and understanding, and promote mutual respect and cooperation.
Diplomacy is also an important tool for addressing concerns and resolving disputes. By engaging in diplomatic dialogues, China and the United States can find common ground, build consensus, and promote stability and security in the region.
Strategic coordination between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. The United States is an important partner for China because of its military capabilities, strategic interests, economic and technological advantages, and the role of soft power and diplomacy. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
VII. Crafting a Coordinated Strategy of Common Global Peace Through Prosperity
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. To ensure the success of this partnership, it is important to formulate a comprehensive strategy for uniting with the United States against Russia. This strategy should include diplomatic channels and negotiations.
A. Formulation of a Comprehensive Strategy
The comprehensive strategy for uniting with the United States against Russia should be based on a clear understanding of Chinese objectives in the Amur Valley. This strategy should include a detailed analysis of the geopolitical landscape, the capabilities and intentions of Russia, and the potential benefits and risks of the partnership.
B. Diplomatic Channels and Negotiations
Diplomatic channels and negotiations are an important part of the strategy for uniting with the United States against Russia. By engaging in diplomatic dialogues, China and the United States can build trust and understanding, and promote mutual respect and cooperation.
These dialogues should focus on finding common ground, building consensus, and promoting stability and security in the region. They should also address concerns and objections, and seek to find solutions that are acceptable to both sides.
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. To ensure the success of this partnership, it is important to formulate a comprehensive strategy for uniting with the United States against Russia. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
VIII. Addressing Potential Challenges and Risks
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. However, this partnership is not without its challenges and risks. To ensure the success of the partnership, it is important to identify potential obstacles, develop contingency plans, and leverage economic interdependence and trade relations.
A. Identification of Potential Obstacles
There are several potential obstacles to the partnership between China and the United States. These obstacles include historical animosities, conflicting interests, and differences in values and culture.
Historical animosities between China and the United States, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and the Korean War, have created mistrust and suspicion between the two nations. Conflicting interests, such as trade disputes and territorial claims, can also create tension and undermine the partnership.
Differences in values and culture can also pose challenges to the partnership. For example, China's one-party political system and state-controlled economy are fundamentally different from the United States' democratic system and free-market economy.
B. Development of Contingency Plans
To mitigate these risks and maintain cohesion, it is important for China and the United States to develop contingency plans and diplomatic strategies. These plans should focus on building trust and understanding, addressing concerns and objections, and finding common ground.
Contingency plans should also include provisions for managing crises and resolving disputes. This can include mechanisms for conflict resolution, such as mediation and arbitration, as well as contingency plans for military conflicts or economic disputes.
C. Leveraging Economic Interdependence and Trade Relations
Economic interdependence and trade relations can play an important role in sustaining the partnership between China and the United States. By increasing economic cooperation, promoting investment, and expanding market access, the two countries can build trust and understanding, and create a more prosperous and dynamic region.
Trade relations can also provide a powerful incentive for cooperation and compromise. By leveraging economic interdependence, China and the United States can create a more stable and secure region, and promote economic growth and development.
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. However, this partnership is not without its challenges and risks. To ensure the success of the partnership, it is important to identify potential obstacles, develop contingency plans, and leverage economic interdependence and trade relations. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
IX. The Path Forward
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. To ensure the success of this partnership, it is important to outline specific steps, address potential challenges, and emphasize the importance of maintaining this partnership for the long-term stability of the region.
A. Outline Specific Steps
To build a strong and effective partnership, China and the United States should take the following steps:
1. Establish a clear and shared understanding of the objectives and goals of the partnership.
2. Develop a comprehensive strategy for uniting with the United States against Russia.
3. Engage in diplomatic dialogues and negotiations to build trust and understanding.
4. Increase economic cooperation, trade, and investment to promote mutual benefits.
5. Leverage soft power and cultural exchanges to build people-to-people connections.
B. Address Potential Challenges
There are several potential challenges to the partnership between China and the United States. These challenges include historical animosities, conflicting interests, and differences in values and culture.
To overcome these challenges, China and the United States should:
1. Engage in open and honest communication to build trust and understanding.
2. Address concerns and objections in a constructive and respectful manner.
3. Find common ground and build consensus on key issues.
4. Leverage economic interdependence and trade relations to create a more stable and secure region.
5. Build people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges, educational programs, and tourism.
C. Emphasize the Importance of Maintaining the Partnership
The partnership between China and the United States is crucial for the long-term stability of the region. By maintaining this partnership, China and the United States can:
1. Promote stability and security in the Amur Valley.
2. Increase economic cooperation and drive innovation and growth.
3. Build trust and understanding, and promote mutual respect and cooperation.
4. Create a more prosperous and dynamic region.
5. Ensure a secure and stable future for all.
The partnership between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. To ensure the success of this partnership, it is important to outline specific steps, address potential challenges, and emphasize the importance of maintaining this partnership for the long-term stability of the region. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
X. Conclusion
A strategic partnership between China and the United States is a key component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. The strategic imperative for China to unite with distant allies against nearby rivals is clear, and the importance of the partnership or at least coordination with the United States in achieving Chinese objectives in the Amur Valley cannot be overstated.
The Russian threat in the Amur Valley is real, and the only way to resolve that contradiction is through unity between China and the United States. By working together, China and the United States can promote stability, increase economic cooperation, and drive innovation and growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for all.
To achieve this, policymakers must pursue diplomatic and strategic initiatives to strengthen their partnership and secure China's position as a dominant regional power able to responsibly structure relations with China's northern neighbors. This includes engaging in diplomatic dialogues and negotiations, and increasing economic cooperation, trade, and investment.
At the same time, both nations must work together for the greater global good. This means building trust and understanding, addressing concerns and objections, and finding common ground. It also means leveraging economic interdependence and trade relations, and building people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges, educational programs, and tourism.
Strategic coordination between China and the United States is a crucial component of Chinese grand strategy in the Amur Valley. The strategic imperative for China to "unite with distant allies against nearby rivals" is clear, and the importance of coordination with the United States in achieving Chinese objectives in the Amur Valley cannot be overstated. The Russian threat is real, and the only way to address this threat is through unity between China and the United States. It is time for policymakers to take action, and for both nations to work together for the greater good.
LESSONS FROM QIN AND CHU FOR CURRENT CONFLICTS AND WANG MING OPPORTUNISTS.
LESSONS FROM QIN
The Qin state emerged victorious in the Warring States period due to a combination of strategic innovations, military reforms, and effective exploitation of the weaknesses of the other states. The key reasons for Qin's success were:
## Qin's Military Reforms
The Qin state implemented significant military reforms that gave it an advantage over its rivals. This included:
- Shifting from chariot-based armies to large, well-equipped infantry forces[1][2]
- Technological advancements in weapons manufacturing that allowed mass production of arms[4]
- Adoption of innovative military strategies and tactics, as outlined in works like Sun Tzu's "Art of War"[2]
## Qin's Strategic Approach
The Qin pursued a fundamentally different strategic approach compared to the other feudal states:
- They sought total conquest and direct control over defeated territories, rather than just adding them as feudal appendages[1]
- They ruthlessly eliminated the defeated rulers and armies, destroying the power structure of the vanquished states[1]
- They employed tactics like "allying with distant states to attack nearby ones" to isolate and overwhelm their opponents[3]
## Weaknesses of Other States
The other warring states were hampered by factors that allowed Qin to exploit them:
- Constant shifting of alliances and betrayals weakened the cohesion of the opposing coalitions[2]
- The feudal power structures of the other states made them less adaptable to Qin's innovative military approach[1]
- Failures in strategic decision-making, such as the Chu state's defeat of the Qin invasion force, allowed Qin to regroup and eventually overwhelm them[5]
Ultimately, Qin's combination of military reforms, strategic acumen, and exploitation of the weaknesses of its rivals enabled it to gradually conquer and unify China under its rule.[3][4] The other states were unable to match Qin's adaptability and determination to achieve total victory.
Citations:
[1] https://vc.bridgew.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1092&context=undergrad_rev
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskHistorians/comments/2atkf6/why_did_qin_win_the_warring_states_peroid/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin%27s_wars_of_unification
[4] http://www.chinaknowledge.de/History/Han/qin-event.html
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin_%28state%29
Chu initially defeated a Qin invasion force, but this setback ultimately allowed Qin to regroup and eventually conquer Chu. The key details are:
The Qin state prepared a massive invasion force of 600,000 troops to attack Chu, one of its most powerful rivals. However, the Qin king Ying Zheng initially put a younger general, Li Xin, in command of only 200,000 troops to attack Chu. [2]
The Chu forces, led by Xiang Yan, were able to take Li Xin's smaller army by surprise and defeat them. This was considered the "greatest setback for Qin in its wars to unify China."[2]
Recognizing the need for a larger force, Ying Zheng then put the veteran general Wang Jian in command of the 600,000 troops as originally requested. [2][3]
Wang Jian employed more effective tactics, luring the Chu army to attack his camp and then launching a devastating counterattack that routed the Chu forces. Xiang Yan was killed in the battle. [3]
With this victory, Qin was then able to push on and capture the Chu capital of Shouchun in 223 BC, completely subjugating the Chu state. [3]
The initial strategic misjudgment by Qin in underestimating the strength required to defeat Chu allowed the Chu forces to gain an early victory. However, this setback prompted Qin to commit its full military might, which ultimately led to Chu's complete conquest. The Chu state's inability to capitalize on its initial success against the weaker Qin force was a key factor in its eventual downfall.
Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chu_%28state%29
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin_%28state%29
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin%27s_wars_of_unification
[4] http://theimmortalemperor.weebly.com/expansion.html
[5] https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Qin%27s_wars_of_unification
Key reasons for Chu's eventual defeat by Qin:
1. Qin's Military Reforms and Innovations
The Qin state had implemented significant military reforms, including shifting to large, well-equipped infantry armies and adopting innovative strategic doctrines like those outlined in Sun Tzu's "Art of War". This gave Qin a decisive technological and tactical advantage over the traditional chariot-based armies of Chu. [1][2]
2. Qin's Ruthless Conquest Strategy
Unlike the other feudal states that just sought to add conquered territories as vassals, Qin pursued a strategy of total conquest and direct control. They ruthlessly eliminated defeated rulers and armies, destroying the power structures of rival states like Chu. [1][2]
3. Chu's Failure to Capitalize on Early Victories
The search results describe how the Chu forces were initially able to defeat a smaller Qin invasion force led by the younger general Li Xin. However, Chu was unable to follow up on this victory effectively. Qin then committed its full 600,000-strong army under the veteran general Wang Jian, who decisively defeated the Chu forces. [5]
4. Chu's Weakening Position and Shifting Alliances
Over time, Chu was increasingly pressured by the expanding Qin state, especially after Qin enacted the Legalist reforms. Chu was forced to shift its capital eastward and expand southwards, weakening its position. Its shifting alliances with other states like Qi also failed to provide lasting protection against Qin's onslaught. [1][4]
5. Qin's Conquest of Chu's Strategic Territories
The search results indicate that Qin's conquest of the Shu region in the Sichuan Basin and the Wuyue region at the mouth of the Yangtze River were key strategic moves that allowed them to isolate and overwhelm Chu. These territories provided critical agricultural and economic resources to Chu. [1][5]
In summary, Qin's military superiority, strategic acumen, and ruthless pursuit of total conquest, combined with Chu's failure to capitalize on early victories and its weakening geopolitical position, were the primary reasons for Chu's eventual defeat and elimination by the Qin state.
Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chu_%28state%29
[2] https://academic.oup.com/book/9870/chapter-abstract/157168059?redirectedFrom=fulltext
[3] https://www.britannica.com/place/Chu-ancient-state-China-770-223-BCE
[4] http://www.chinaknowledge.de/History/Zhou/rulers-chu.html
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin_%28state%29
We may also draw parallels between Qin and the other warring states with Wang Ming (Wang Ming Opportunism). "Wang Ming opportunism" refers to the opportunistic political line and policies advocated by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Wang Ming during the 1930s. The key points about Wang Ming opportunism are:
1. "Left" Opportunism During the Second Revolutionary Civil War
During the CCP's Second Revolutionary Civil War against the Kuomintang (KMT), Wang Ming promoted a "left" opportunist line of "all struggle and no alliance", which the CCP later had to correct. [5]
2. "Right" Opportunism/Capitulationism During the Anti-Japanese War
After the CCP formed the Anti-Japanese National United Front with the KMT, Wang Ming shifted to the opposite extreme, advocating a "right" opportunist or capitulationist line. [5]
3. Undermining the CCP's Leadership and Policies
Wang Ming's capitulationist line opposed Mao Zedong's correct policies of mobilizing the masses, carrying out democratic reforms, and maintaining the worker-peasant alliance. He wanted to hand over the CCP's armed forces and base areas to the KMT. [5]
4. Revisionism and Damage to the Revolutionary Cause
The search results characterize Wang Ming's line as "revisionism, pure and simple" that would have prevented the Chinese people from winning the Anti-Japanese War and subsequent national victory if it had been followed. [5]
5. Lessons Learned Through Struggle
The CCP under Mao's leadership had to carry out a "resolute struggle" to rectify Wang Ming's errors. Painful lessons like the Southern Anhwei Incident helped sober the CCP and increase its ability to distinguish between correct and incorrect lines. [5]
In summary, "Wang Ming opportunism" refers to his shifting between "left" and "right" opportunist positions, which undermined the CCP's revolutionary leadership and policies, and had to be firmly corrected through struggle within the party.
Citations:
[1] https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/957DD912F43F40DA144C3C4073037B45/S0020859000111174a.pdf/wang_ming_revisited_a_new_look_at_the_chinese_second_united_front.pdf
[2] https://www.jstor.org/stable/44582214
[3] https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/C001FD15761899F23EC91497DA6C66E4/S0305741000011644a.pdf/second_wang_mine_line_193538.pdf
[4] https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA333614.pdf
[5] https://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/lin-biao/1965/09/peoples_war/ch02.htm
Sino-German Business
I have earlier pointed out the fact China took up the German export-substitution-industrialization model to grow into the world's largest exporter, replacing Germany which long held that title. Germany and Russia are both party-political states. A great many Chinese laws were modelled on German laws. Good ideas attract voluntary compliance and replication.