Core Viewpoint - Liang Jinshan, a renowned patriotic overseas Chinese leader, dedicated his wealth to support the anti-Japanese war, demonstrating a deep connection with his homeland [1][6]. Group 1: Background and Early Life - Liang Jinshan was born in 1882 in a farmer's family in Baoshan, Yunnan, and moved to Myanmar at the age of 18 to seek a living [3]. - He worked various jobs, including as a miner, and eventually co-founded a silver factory in Myanmar, contributing to the development of Sino-Burmese trade [3][5]. Group 2: Contributions During the War - During the anti-Japanese war, Liang Jinshan served as the president of the Burmese Chinese Association and donated significant resources, including 80 American trucks and one airplane, as well as monthly contributions until the war's end [5][6]. - He funded the construction of the Huaitong Bridge, which became a vital supply route for the war effort, with all materials sourced from the UK [5][8]. Group 3: Recognition and Legacy - Liang Jinshan was recognized by the British Queen for saving over 3,000 miners from a cave-in, which elevated his status as a prominent leader among overseas Chinese [5]. - After returning to China post-war, he lived modestly and continued to support his community, earning respect and gratitude from local residents [8][9]. - His story and contributions have inspired initiatives to educate others about the patriotic spirit of overseas Chinese, including the stage play "Chizi Qingchun," which highlights the efforts of overseas Chinese during the war [9].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the Huitong Bridge in Yunnan, which served as a crucial transportation link during the Second Sino-Japanese War, facilitating the supply of materials and troops for the Chinese military efforts against Japan [1][2][3]. Historical Significance - Huitong Bridge is located on the Nu River and was the only passage for the Burma Road during the war, playing a vital role in the logistics of the Chinese forces [1][2]. - The bridge has a rich history dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties, serving as a key point on the Southern Silk Road [1]. - It was originally built as an iron chain suspension bridge and was later upgraded to a steel cable suspension bridge in 1938 to support heavier traffic [1][2]. Military Engagements - In May 1942, Japanese forces attempted to capture the bridge, leading to a critical moment where Chinese defenders blew up the bridge to prevent its capture, successfully halting the Japanese advance [2]. - The bridge was repaired in July 1944, becoming a major route for the Chinese counteroffensive and supply lines during the war [2]. Preservation and Recognition - After being decommissioned in 1974, Huitong Bridge was preserved as a historical site and was designated as a provincial cultural heritage site in 1993 [3]. - It underwent comprehensive restoration in 2015 and was recognized as a national key cultural relic in 2019, underscoring its importance in Chinese history [3]. Structural Details - The bridge features a typical reinforced wooden truss steel cable suspension design, measuring 154 meters in length and 5.6 meters in width, with a height of 30 meters for its piers [3]. - A commemorative monument detailing the bridge's history is located at the southern end, serving as a primary source for understanding its significance [3].