Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the Qiongya Anti-Japanese Independent Team's formation during the Second Sino-Japanese War, emphasizing the collaboration between the Communist Party and the Nationalist Party in resisting Japanese aggression in Hainan [7][8][12]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Qiongya region became a focal point for Japanese military strategy due to its proximity to key locations and resources, leading to a united front between the Nationalist and Communist forces to combat the invasion [11][12]. - The collaboration was marked by a significant event on December 5, 1938, when the Qiongya Red Army guerrilla team was officially restructured into the Qiongya Anti-Japanese Independent Team, with over ten thousand local citizens participating in the ceremony [12][13]. Group 2: Key Figures and Events - The handshake between Feng Baiju, the Qiongya Special Committee Secretary, and Wang Yi, the Nationalist Commander, symbolized the difficult yet crucial alliance formed to resist Japanese forces [10][12]. - The Qiongya Anti-Japanese Independent Team quickly gained momentum, expanding from over 300 members to more than 1,000 by March 1939, and later evolving into the Qiongya Column of the People's Liberation Army, which contributed significantly to the revolutionary efforts in the region [14]. Group 3: Community Involvement - The article illustrates the active participation of local youth and citizens in the anti-Japanese efforts, including the formation of the "Young Soldiers" unit, which consisted of children aged 13 to 16 who were eager to join the fight [18][19]. - The support from the local population was crucial, with various communities forming self-defense units and providing resources to the anti-Japanese forces, showcasing a collective effort against the invasion [20].

Core Viewpoint - The Taiyuan Campaign, which lasted from September to November 1937, was a significant defensive battle in the early stages of the Second Sino-Japanese War, showcasing the resilience of Chinese forces against Japanese aggression and marking a pivotal moment in the formation of a united front against the invaders [1][10][14]. Summary by Sections Campaign Overview - The Taiyuan Campaign was a large-scale strategic defensive battle involving the Chinese Second War Zone forces against the Japanese army in Shanxi province, including key battles such as the Tianzhen, Pingxingguan, and the defense of Taiyuan [1][10]. - The campaign was characterized by fierce fighting and significant casualties on both sides, with the Chinese forces demonstrating remarkable bravery despite being outgunned [5][12]. Key Battles and Events - The campaign included the notable Pingxingguan victory, which was the first major victory for Chinese forces since the outbreak of the war, boosting morale and demonstrating the potential for resistance against Japanese forces [3][8]. - The battle at Xinkou was particularly intense, with over 20,000 Chinese troops engaged in fierce combat against the Japanese, resulting in heavy losses for the latter and a temporary halt to their advance [6][10]. Impact and Significance - The Taiyuan Campaign significantly delayed Japanese advances in North China, inflicting heavy casualties and disrupting their operational plans, which contributed to the broader strategy of resistance [12][14]. - The campaign is noted for its role in solidifying the cooperation between the Nationalist and Communist forces in China, marking it as one of the best-coordinated efforts in the early stages of the war [14].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the premiere of the Huai opera "Burning Smoke" based on the heroic deeds of anti-Japanese general Chen Zhongzhu, emphasizing his legacy and the historical context of his sacrifices during the war [3][4]. Summary by Sections Historical Context - Chen Zhongzhu, a significant figure in the anti-Japanese resistance, was born in October 1906 in a peasant family in Jiangsu Province. He became involved in revolutionary activities and military training, eventually leading the 4th Division of the guerrilla forces in the Jiangsu region during the Second Sino-Japanese War [4][5]. Key Events - On June 5, 1941, Chen's forces were ambushed by Japanese troops, leading to his heroic but tragic death at the age of 35. After his death, the Japanese forces decapitated him, which prompted his pregnant wife, Wang Zhifang, to bravely retrieve his head for a proper burial [3][4]. Cultural Impact - The opera "Burning Smoke" aims to portray the emotional and historical significance of Chen Zhongzhu's story, reflecting the spirit of resistance and the sacrifices made during the war. The performance concludes with a powerful message about the enduring spirit of the Chinese people [5]. Educational Influence - Chen Zhongzhu's legacy continues to inspire local students, with schools named after him organizing activities to honor his contributions. Scholarships are awarded in his and his wife's name to encourage academic excellence among students [5].