Customer Reviews

Vietnam and China, 1938-1954,

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In the terrible years of World War 2, and in the immediate aftermath, the Chinese and Vietnamese Communist parties were very closely aligned. Certainly, once Japan invaded Vietnam in the 40s, then both parties faced a common and dangerous foe.

Chen gives a detailed history of the cooperation, which was often at the highest levels of both parties. Describing Ho Chi Minh's years in China, soliciting material for his troops. Interesting issues arise as the war ended with the Japanese defeat. We see how the French were eager to regain their IndoChinese empire. While naturally the Viet Minh wanted independence. At this time, Ho was quite supportive of the US. Leading a reader to wonder how things might have been different if the US has strongly supported Vietnamese independence, as it did for Israel.

Later in the book, we see escalating conflict between the French and the Viet Minh. With massive Chinese aid and advice from Mao. Including on how to restructure Vietnamese society along lines that Mao was doing in China.

While the book's title says Vietnam and China, be aware that it principally concerns events in Vietnam.