抗日根据地·今昔巨变｜东江抗战燃烽火 湾区今朝绘新图

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the transformation of the East River Anti-Japanese Base from a wartime stronghold into a modern economic and technological hub, particularly within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, showcasing its significant contributions to China's economic growth and innovation [1][21]. Historical Context - The East River Anti-Japanese Base, comprising areas like Dongguan, Shenzhen, and Huizhou, was established during the Anti-Japanese War under the leadership of the Guangdong People's Anti-Japanese Guerrilla Force [1][5]. - The Guangdong People's Anti-Japanese Guerrilla Force East River Column was formed in December 1943, significantly boosting the morale and fighting spirit of the local population [6][5]. Military Achievements - The East River Column engaged in over 1,400 operations against Japanese and puppet forces, inflicting thousands of casualties [8][6]. - Notable operations included the attack on the New Tang Railway Station, which disrupted Japanese supply lines for two weeks [8][9]. Economic Development - The region has evolved into a vibrant economic area, contributing to the Greater Bay Area's status as one of the most open and economically dynamic regions in China, generating one-ninth of the national economic output despite occupying only 0.6% of the country's land [21]. - Dongguan has transformed its industrial landscape, focusing on innovation in toy production and digital creativity, with over 4,000 toy manufacturers and nearly 1,500 supporting enterprises [15][17]. Infrastructure and Connectivity - The historical significance of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong railway has been succeeded by the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-Speed Railway, which operates 325 trains daily, connecting major cities and serving over 70 million people [17][21]. - The region is home to world-class ports, including Guangzhou and Shenzhen, forming one of the largest port clusters globally, with an annual container throughput exceeding 77 million TEUs [22]. Tourism and Cultural Heritage - The former command post of the East River Column has been preserved as a key cultural heritage site and patriotic education base, attracting over 30,000 visitors annually [8][11]. - The development of "red tourism" and coastal vacation industries has significantly increased local residents' incomes [11].