HISTORY OF CHINA PROJECT SEM 3
Introduction
The documentary China’s Century of Humiliation,
released in 2011 and directed by Mitch Anderson, offers
an in-depth exploration of a critical period in China’s
history, spanning from the 19th century through the
mid-20th century. Its main purpose is to illustrate the
turbulent era marked by foreign invasions, internal
struggles, and a series of devastating conflicts, which
collectively left a deep imprint on China’s national
psyche. Through examining key events like the Opium
Wars, the Taiping Rebellion, the imposition of "Unequal
Treaties," and the Japanese occupation, the
documentary sheds light on how these historical
traumas fostered a strong desire for self-reliance and
unity within China.
This history remains relevant today, shaping China’s
contemporary identity and global ambitions. The
"Century of Humiliation" fuels a commitment to avoid
foreign dependence, assert sovereignty, and achieve
global respect. Understanding this period is key to
grasping China’s current policies, modernization efforts,
and focus on territorial integrity and a strong national
image.
Historical Context
The documentary China’s Century of Humiliation covers
a series of pivotal events that collectively represent a
period of profound hardship and transformation for
China, often termed the "Century of Humiliation." This
period, spanning from the mid-1800s to the mid-20th
century, was marked by repeated foreign interventions,
conflicts, and internal turmoil, each of which shaped
China’s trajectory and left a lasting impact on its
national consciousness and political stance.
Key Historical Events Covered
1. The Opium Wars (1839-1842, 1856-1860):
o These conflicts between China and Britain (and
later involving France) were triggered by
Britain’s aggressive opium trade, which
weakened China socially and economically.
o China's defeat led to the Treaty of Nanking and
other "Unequal Treaties," which forced China
to cede Hong Kong, pay large indemnities, and
open various ports to foreign powers.
2. The "Unequal Treaties":
o Following the Opium Wars, Western powers
imposed a series of treaties on China that
granted foreign countries control over certain
areas, trade advantages, and extraterritorial
rights for their citizens.
o These treaties eroded China’s sovereignty,
leading to foreign-controlled "concessions" in
major cities, undermining the Qing
government’s authority.
3. The Fall of the Qing Dynasty (1912):
o Internal rebellions like the Taiping Rebellion
and external pressures weakened the Qing
Dynasty, which had ruled China for centuries.
o The dynasty’s fall in 1912 marked the end of
imperial rule and left China politically
fragmented, with a power vacuum that led to
further instability.
4. Japanese Invasions (1931, 1937-1945):
o Japan’s invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and full-
scale invasion in 1937 brought widespread
destruction and atrocities, including the
Nanjing Massacre.
o This occupation further traumatized China, as
Japanese forces committed numerous human
rights abuses and took control of much of the
country until the end of World War II.
5. The Chinese Civil War (1927-1949):
o The Civil War between the Nationalists
(Kuomintang) and the Communists, which
reignited after Japan’s defeat, was a prolonged
struggle for control over China.
o It culminated in the Communist Party’s victory
in 1949, leading to the establishment of the
People’s Republic of China and the
Nationalists’ retreat to Taiwan.
The “Century of Humiliation” and Its Influence on
China’s Modern Political Stance
The "Century of Humiliation" refers to a period when
China faced successive defeats and loss of sovereignty
due to foreign powers, leading to a collective trauma
among its people. This experience instilled a strong
desire among Chinese leaders and citizens to protect
their nation from foreign subjugation. The legacy of this
era has significantly shaped modern China’s political
stance, fostering a commitment to national
sovereignty, territorial integrity, and self-sufficiency.
This background helps explain China's assertive foreign
policy and sensitivity regarding issues related to Taiwan
and Hong Kong, as well as its aim to reclaim a
respected global position.
Expert Insights: A Balanced and Scholarly
Perspective
The documentary China’s Century of Humiliation stands
out not only for its rigorous historical analysis but also
for its exceptional access to a diverse group of experts,
including six PhD scholars from prestigious institutions.
By featuring both Asian and Western scholars, the
documentary provides a balanced exploration of
complex historical events, fostering a more nuanced
international understanding of China’s past and its
ongoing impact on the nation’s identity and policies.
Among the experts featured, notable Western scholars
include Dr. John Fairbank, a Harvard University
professor recognized for his pioneering research on
modern China, and Dr. Roderick MacFarquhar, a
renowned historian specializing in Chinese politics. Dr.
Fairbank discusses the broader implications of the
Opium Wars, stating, “The Opium Wars were a turning
point, forcibly integrating China into an international
system it had previously rejected, which led to a
reshaping of Chinese society under foreign influence.”
Dr. MacFarquhar adds that the “Unequal Treaties” and
subsequent concessions “left China vulnerable and
resentful, fueling a nationalist spirit that remains strong
even today.”
From the Asian perspective, the documentary includes
insights from Dr. Wang Gungwu, a leading historian
from the National University of Singapore, and Dr. Yao
Shi-tong, a distinguished professor at Peking University.
Dr. Wang speaks on the psychological impact of foreign
invasions, noting, “For China, the memory of the
'Century of Humiliation' is not just historical but
visceral, as generations grew up with the
understanding that they had to restore China’s dignity
and strength.” Dr. Yao elaborates on how these traumas
influenced modern China’s focus on sovereignty: “The
lessons of the past were clear — China could not allow
itself to be weak. This historical experience shapes
China’s commitment to self-reliance and its sensitivity
to foreign interference today.”
The documentary’s inclusion of both Western and Asian
scholars not only deepens the analysis but also ensures
that viewers receive a well-rounded understanding of
the "Century of Humiliation." Asian scholars provide a
view into the long-lasting cultural effects within China,
while Western scholars offer a critical examination of
foreign policy decisions and their consequences. This
approach promotes an international dialogue, urging
viewers to understand these historical events from
multiple perspectives rather than through a singular
narrative lens.
By presenting these varied viewpoints, the
documentary highlights the shared responsibility and
global context surrounding China’s struggles,
encouraging viewers to appreciate the complexities of
historical interpretation. This balanced presentation of
expert opinions makes China’s Century of Humiliation a
valuable educational resource, as it bridges Eastern and
Western perspectives on a deeply impactful period in
world history.
Review of the Documentary’s Structure and
Presentation
The documentary China’s Century of Humiliation
employs a carefully structured approach to storytelling
that effectively conveys the gravity and complexity of
China’s turbulent history. By blending historical footage,
narrations, and expert interviews, the documentary
creates a compelling narrative that engages viewers
while educating them about the significant events that
shaped modern China.
Storytelling and Structure
The documentary follows a chronological structure,
covering China’s “Century of Humiliation” from the
Opium Wars to the founding of the People’s Republic.
This approach highlights the cumulative impact of key
events, like the Opium Wars, “Unequal Treaties,” and
the Japanese invasion, enhancing its educational value.
Use of Historical Footage, and Narration
The documentary incorporates historical footage of
significant moments, such as scenes from the Sino-
Japanese War and images of 19th-century China, which
vividly illustrate the struggles the nation endured.
These authentic visuals immerse viewers in the era,
allowing them to witness the historical events rather
than just hear about them. The narration is clear,
informative, and occasionally emotive, which helps
convey the seriousness of the subject matter.
Technical Aspects
The documentary's technical elements, such as
cinematography, graphics, and soundtrack, greatly
enhance its impact. Polished cinematography features
curated archival footage showcasing China's suffering
and resilience. High-quality graphics depict timelines
and territorial changes, aiding viewers' understanding
of complex geopolitical shifts. The somber soundtrack
reinforces the emotional weight of the events, drawing
the audience into China's historical struggles.
Themes and Motifs
The documentary China’s Century of Humiliation brings
out key themes of nationalism, resilience, and the
impact of foreign aggression on national sovereignty,
showing how these experiences shape China’s identity
and modern policies.
Nationalism
Nationalism grew as a reaction to the intense foreign
interference China endured. The Opium Wars, "Unequal
Treaties," and Japanese occupation fueled a desire to
restore national pride and unity. This deep-seated
nationalism continues to drive China’s assertive stance
on issues like territorial integrity, influencing its policies
on Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the South China Sea.
Resilience
The theme of resilience emerges through China’s
determination to resist foreign domination, seen in
events like the Boxer Rebellion and anti-Japanese
resistance. These acts of defiance underscore a
determination to protect China’s sovereignty. Today,
this resilience is echoed in China’s push for economic
self-sufficiency and military modernization, reflecting its
resolve to avoid future exploitation.
Foreign Aggression and Sovereignty
Repeated foreign invasions left China distrustful of
external influence, solidifying its commitment to
sovereignty. This historical memory fuels modern
policies emphasizing self-reliance in technology, trade,
and security.
These themes illustrate how the “Century of
Humiliation” forged China’s path toward self-reliance
and global power. The documentary effectively shows
that past challenges continue to guide China’s actions
on the world stage, reinforcing its resolve for national
dignity and security.
Critical Analysis
China’s Century of Humiliation is largely accurate in its
historical portrayal, using expert interviews and
archival footage to provide a factual account of China’s
struggles with foreign powers. However, it presents a
slight bias by focusing predominantly on China’s
suffering and humiliation, emphasizing a nationalist
perspective.
The documentary adopts a narrative style that
highlights China’s victimization, with a strong emotional
and historical appeal. While it offers valuable insights, it
tends to downplay the complexities of the broader
geopolitical context. Overall, the documentary is
informative and mostly objective, but it leans toward a
Chinese-centric view of history.
Significance and Legacy
Understanding the "Century of Humiliation" is essential
for grasping China’s current global stance and foreign
policy. This period of foreign aggression has instilled a
strong desire for sovereignty, respect, and national
pride, driving China’s assertive foreign policy,
particularly regarding territorial integrity and economic
self-reliance. The legacy of this era fuels nationalism
and emphasizes unity, shaping the internal political
agenda and legitimizing government policies both
domestically and internationally.
Rating and Conclusion
Rating:
China’s Century of Humiliation is an insightful
documentary that effectively highlights China’s
historical struggles. While the use of expert interviews
and archival footage adds depth, the documentary
leans toward a nationalist perspective, which may limit
its objectivity. Overall, it’s an informative and engaging
resource, deserving a rating of 8/10.
Conclusion:
The documentary provides valuable insight into how
the "Century of Humiliation" shaped China’s identity
and policies. It highlights the lasting impact on China’s
nationalism, foreign policy, and internal unity. Though it
presents a somewhat biased view, it remains an
essential resource for understanding China’s modern
global stance.
Bibliography
1. Anderson, M., Documentary China’s Century of
Humiliation, 2011
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