Core Insights - The New Fourth Army's Seventh Division was a remarkable military unit during the Anti-Japanese War, known for its ability to win battles, generate resources, and support other units while being self-sufficient [1][9] - Initially, the Seventh Division faced severe resource shortages, struggling to provide basic necessities for its soldiers, but eventually transformed its situation through innovative economic strategies [3][5] Historical Context - The origins of the Seventh Division trace back to 1937 when the Red Army guerrilla forces in the south were reorganized into the New Fourth Army, facing oppression from Chiang Kai-shek [3] - The division was nearly destroyed after the Wan'an Incident, but leaders Zhang Dingcheng and Zeng Xisheng managed to regroup and form the foundation of the Seventh Division [3] Economic Strategies - Economic experts Cai Hui and Ye Jinming proposed that the division engage in trade to sustain itself, leveraging the rich agricultural resources of the Jiangnan region [3][5] - The division initiated grain trade, disrupting enemy supply lines and attracting merchants from major cities, which led to the establishment of a bustling black market [5] Resource Accumulation - The Seventh Division not only traded with local merchants but also engaged in high-priced transactions with Japanese and puppet forces, acquiring essential military supplies and resources [5][7] - The establishment of the "Wanjiang Trade Bureau" and the issuance of "Dajiang Currency" created a local financial system, allowing the division to achieve economic self-sufficiency [5] Operational Challenges - The division's success came at a high cost, with constant threats from enemy forces and the risk of severe punishment for those involved in underground financial activities [7] - Each transaction was fraught with danger, highlighting the sacrifices made to achieve economic stability [7] Legacy - After the war, the Seventh Division's accumulated wealth and experience laid the groundwork for the liberation of East China, demonstrating their dual role as both warriors and builders [9] - The story of the Seventh Division serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the importance of resilience and adaptability in challenging times [9]