Chinese students are taught that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) victory in the 1949 civil war decisively ended the Century of Humiliation, marking a new era of national sovereignty and strength for China.
Understanding the Century of Humiliation
The "Century of Humiliation" (百年耻辱, bǎinián chǐrǔ) is a term in Chinese historiography that refers to the period from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century. During this era, China experienced significant weakness, often subjected to foreign aggression, unequal treaties, and political instability. Key events that define this period include:
- The Opium Wars (1839–1842, 1856–1860): Forced China to open its markets and cede territories like Hong Kong.
- Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895): Resulted in a humiliating defeat and loss of Korea and Taiwan.
- The Boxer Rebellion (1899–1901): Crushed by an international coalition, leading to further punitive treaties.
- Foreign Concessions: Areas within Chinese cities controlled by foreign powers.
- Japanese Invasion and Occupation (1931–1945): A brutal period of warfare and occupation during World War II.
This period instilled a deep sense of national grievance and a strong desire to restore China's international standing. For more background on this era, refer to the Century of Humiliation on Britannica.
The CCP's Narrative: Ending Humiliation in 1949
In Chinese education and official discourse, the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC) on October 1, 1949, following the Chinese Civil War, is presented as the definitive moment that brought an end to this century of national shame.
The Significance of 1949
The victory of the CCP under Mao Zedong over the Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) is framed as the ultimate triumph of the Chinese people against both foreign imperialists and corrupt domestic forces. It is portrayed as the moment China stood up, reclaiming its sovereignty and dignity after decades of subjugation. This event symbolizes:
- National Unity: The unification of a fractured nation under a new government.
- Independence: The expulsion of foreign influence and the rejection of unequal treaties.
- Self-Reliance: The beginning of a new chapter where China would determine its own destiny.
Validation of CCP Legitimacy
This historical narrative is fundamental to the Chinese Communist Party's legitimacy. By asserting that their victory directly ended the Century of Humiliation, the CCP positions itself as the rightful inheritor and protector of China's national interests, capable of leading the nation to prosperity and power. This foundational belief reinforces their role as the vanguard of national rejuvenation.
The Taiwan Question: Unfinished Business
A crucial component of this narrative is the belief that the "Century of Humiliation" will only be fully and completely rectified when Taiwan is unified with Mainland China. From the CCP's perspective, Taiwan, having been ceded to Japan after the First Sino-Japanese War and later becoming the retreat for the KMT, represents a remaining historical wrong that must be corrected to achieve complete national unity and territorial integrity. This unfinished task is seen as the final step in truly overcoming the historical grievances of the humiliation period.
Educational Emphasis
Chinese history education places a significant emphasis on the Century of Humiliation and its culmination in 1949. Students learn about the hardships faced by the nation, the sacrifices made, and the ultimate triumph achieved under the CCP's leadership. This narrative aims to:
- Instill a strong sense of patriotism and national pride.
- Foster a collective memory of struggle and resilience.
- Highlight the importance of national unity and strength in safeguarding sovereignty.
| Period | Key Characteristic | Perceived End |
|---|---|---|
| Century of Humiliation | Foreign aggression, unequal treaties, territorial losses, internal instability, national shame | 1949: Establishment of PRC |
| Post-1949 Era | National sovereignty, economic development, international standing, national rejuvenation | Ongoing: Full national unification (Taiwan) |
This understanding shapes the modern Chinese identity, emphasizing a continuous struggle for national rejuvenation and the vital role of the CCP in achieving it.
