The Long March ends

Over eight decades ago, on October 20, 1935, a seminal historical event happened that left an indelible mark on global history. This was the day when the epic journey known as “The Long March” ended, marking a crucial turning point in the Chinese Civil War. This historical milestone continues to resonate in Chinese consciousness, embodying resilience, determination, and strategic brilliance.

For those who are not aware, the Long March was a grueling traversal undertaken by the Red Army of the Communist Party of China to evade the pursuit of the ruling Kuomintang army. This strategic retreat, which began in 1934 and culminated on October 20, 1935, covered over 9,000 kilometers traversing some of China’s most challenging terrains. It has been estimated that out of the initial 87,000 troops who embarked on this journey, only around 7,000 successfully completed it.

The end of the Long March is often hailed as the defining moment in the eventual victory of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) because it served a dual purpose. Not only did it allow the Red Army to evade capture and obliteration, but it also served as a powerful propaganda tool, helping the CCP win the hearts and minds of the Chinese peasantry.

The Long March, encompassing 370 days of traversing across snow-clad peaks, marshes, rivers, and deserts, is considered a testament to the Red Army’s tremendous perseverance, resilience, and adaptability. It was this same tenacity and spirit of endurance that ultimately led to the establishment of the People’s Republic of China under the leadership of the Communist Party in 1949.

Today, the legacy of the Long March is pertinent, not only in the field of historical research but also in socio-political narratives. It is frequently referenced in Chinese popular culture and taught in schools as an example of endurance and perseverance, underscoring the CCP’s legitimacy and the Party’s role in the liberation of the Chinese people.

Now, the digital world brings new perspectives on The Long March. With digital archives, interactive platforms, scholars and history enthusiasts can view maps, read firsthand accounts of the march and access a wealth of other data, giving a more nuanced understanding of this watershed moment in history.

The significance of the Long March in shaping modern China cannot be overstated. For many, it stands as a symbol of national unyielding will and the persistent struggle for survival against all odds. The image of Red Army soldiers, marching inexhaustibly despite the harsh conditions and the threat of annihilation, has been deeply ingrained in the national psyche, shoring up Chinese patriotism and national identity.