Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that economic construction has always been a priority for any nation, regardless of historical context or social system, and that the focus of economic development has shifted over different periods, particularly highlighting the foundational economic efforts in the early years of New China [1][10]. Summary by Sections Early Economic Construction - In 1949, the establishment of New China occurred in a state of devastation, with a population of approximately 540 million, an average life expectancy of just over 35 years, and an adult illiteracy rate exceeding 80% [4][5]. - The economy was primarily agrarian, with agriculture contributing over 81% to the national economy, and industrial output was extremely low, with steel production at only 135,000 tons [4][5]. - The initial focus was on developing basic infrastructure to lay the groundwork for future economic growth, despite facing significant challenges such as a lack of equipment and technology, as well as economic and technological blockades from Western countries [4][5]. Soviet Assistance and Industrial Development - Following the establishment of diplomatic relations, the Soviet Union provided assistance through loans and expertise, leading to the completion of 156 major construction projects during the First Five-Year Plan, which laid the foundation for China's industrial framework [5][6]. - The relationship with the Soviet Union was not without its challenges, as China had to repay debts and faced the withdrawal of Soviet support due to deteriorating relations [5]. Achievements in Economic Growth - Despite the initial focus on infrastructure, significant economic achievements were made from 1949 to 1978, with total agricultural and industrial output increasing from 46.6 billion yuan to 446.7 billion yuan, a nearly tenfold increase [12][14]. - Key indicators showed remarkable growth: steel production surged from 135,000 tons to 2.39 million tons, and electricity generation increased from 4.3 billion kWh to 195.8 billion kWh, reflecting a growth of over 45 times [12][14]. - The average annual growth rate of GDP during this period was 8.43%, with stable prices, indicating a solid economic foundation was being built [12][14]. Comparative International Performance - By 1978, the economic gap between China and the United States had narrowed from 28 times to 5.52 times, showcasing a significant reduction in disparity [10][12]. - China's agricultural growth rate averaged 4.0%, outperforming the United States, the Soviet Union, and Japan, while industrial growth averaged 12.5%, also exceeding the growth rates of these countries [14]. Conclusion on Economic Foundations - The article concludes that the early years of economic construction were crucial for establishing a solid foundation, which later facilitated rapid economic growth and development, contradicting any notion that these efforts were insignificant [10][14].

Core Viewpoint - The New Fourth Army's Seventh Division demonstrated remarkable economic resilience and growth during the difficult period of the Anti-Japanese War, becoming a financially strong and well-equipped military unit despite the overall economic hardships faced by other divisions [3][6][10]. Economic Conditions - The Seventh Division was able to generate significant financial resources, with its revenue exceeding 24 million yuan in 1943 and rising to 60 million yuan by 1944, while also providing substantial support to the military headquarters [6][12]. - In contrast, the New Fourth Army faced severe funding cuts from the Nationalist government, with monthly military expenses drastically reduced from 166,000 yuan to as low as 65,000 yuan, highlighting the financial struggles of other units [3][4]. Leadership and Strategy - Key figures such as Zeng Xisheng and Cai Hui played crucial roles in the economic development of the Seventh Division, implementing effective strategies that transformed the division from a poorly funded unit to one of the most prosperous in the region [8][12]. - Zeng Xisheng's leadership and strategic vision were instrumental in establishing the division's economic independence and resilience against multiple enemy forces [10][12]. Military Transformation - The Seventh Division evolved from a "strategic maneuvering force" to a main combat unit, significantly enhancing its military capabilities and equipment, which included acquiring Japanese-style weaponry [5][12]. - The division's growth in personnel from a few thousand to over 30,000, along with the establishment of local militia forces, underscored its transformation into a formidable military presence [12]. Economic Initiatives - The establishment of the Dajiang Bank and the issuance of Dajiang currency helped to bolster the local economy and reduce reliance on enemy-controlled currencies, further solidifying the division's financial stability [13]. - Initiatives such as providing interest-free loans to local farmers contributed to the economic vitality of the region, demonstrating the division's commitment to local development [13].