The Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945) was a major conflict between China and Japan, spanning the years 1937 to 1945. The war was the result of Japan’s aggressive expansion into Chinese territory in Manchuria and throughout the mainland. It ended with a Japanese surrender to the Allies in September 1945 after the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The effect of the Second Sino-Japanese War on the Chinese people was devastating and far-reaching. In addition to the millions of Chinese who died in active military service, an estimated 20 million Chinese civilians perished during the conflict. This comprised 8 million directly as a result of the fighting and 12 million as a consequence of famine, epidemics and displacement.
Military casualties: China suffered approximately 3.8 million non-military casualties and 4.7 million military casualties (dead and wounded). In comparison, there were 1.3 million military casualties in World War I.
Economic losses: The war inflicted heavy losses of both human and physical capital on Chinese industry and agriculture. Major cities suffered immense destruction at the hands of Japanese forces. The railroads, ports, and other infrastructure that bore the brunt of Japanese attacks were not adequately repaired until well after the war. On a broader level, China’s economy also suffered from the war. As a result of Japanese-imposed embargoes and trade disruption, the value of Chinese exports decreased by more than 50% from the prewar period.
Population displacement: The war caused large-scale displacement of the Chinese population. Over 30 million Chinese were forced to flee their homes in order to escape the Japanese advance. Many of these refugees were women, children, and elderly citizens. The impact of this displacement was felt long after the war, as many of these people were unable to return to their homes or find gainful employment in the post-war years.
Mental and psychological trauma: The war also had a profound psychological impact on the Chinese people. The fear and anxiety of constant bombardment, forced displacement, and the uncertainty of the future left many traumatized and psychologically scarred. Chinese culture was also deeply affected by the effects of the war, with traditional values and beliefs weakened and replaced by a sense of disillusionment and despair.
Social divisions: China’s social fabric was also deeply damaged by the war. Many areas were divided along political and ideological lines, leading to deep mistrust and animosity between regions. This led to further social divisions within and between communities, exacerbating existing tensions and contributing to the eventual civil war between the communist and nationalist parties.
The lasting impact of the Second Sino-Japanese War cannot be underestimated. Its effects were felt on both an individual and societal level, and its repercussions are still seen today in China. The war devastated the economy and caused immense suffering for the Chinese people. Despite its tremendous toll, however, it ultimately served to unite the Chinese people and strengthened their resolve to resist foreign aggression.