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Victorious in Defeat

The Life and Times of Chiang Kai-shek, China, 1887-1975
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Victorious in Defeat by Alexander V. Pantsov is a detailed biography focusing on the tumultuous life of Chiang Kai-shek. The book delves into his complex role in Chinese history, exploring his political and military struggles, leadership during critical periods, and the nuanced nature of his legacy. Through meticulous research, the author offers insight into Chiang's strategies and challenges, painting a comprehensive portrait of a significant historical figure.
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Format: Hardback
$7199
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're interested in a detailed and nuanced look at historical figures who find triumph in unexpected circumstances. With its biographical focus, it provides deep insights into complex personalities and pivotal historical events, making it a rewarding read for those who enjoy exploring the intricate tapestry of human resilience and strategic intellect.

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Victorious in Defeat

An extensively researched, comprehensive biography of Chinese Nationalist leader Chiang Kai-shek, one of the twentieth century’s most powerful and controversial figures

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description
An extensively researched, comprehensive biography of Chinese Nationalist leader Chiang Kai-shek, one of the twentieth century’s most powerful and controversial figures.

Victorious in Defeat explores the life of Chiang Kai-shek (1887–1975), who led the Republic of China for almost fifty years, starting in 1926. He was the architect of a new, republican China, a hero of the Second World War, and a faithful ally of the United States. Simultaneously a Christian and a Confucian, Chiang dreamed of universal equality yet was a perfidious and cunning dictator responsible for the deaths of over 1.5 million innocent people.

This critical biography is based on Chiang Kai-shek’s unpublished diaries, his extensive personal files from the Russian archives, and the Russian files of his relatives, associates, and foes. Alexander V. Pantsov sheds new light on the role played by the Russians in Chiang’s rise to power in the 1920s and throughout his political career—and indeed the Russian influence on the Chinese revolutionary movement as a whole—as well as on Chiang’s complex relationship with top officials of the United States.

It is a detailed portrait of a man who ranks with Stalin, Roosevelt, Hitler, Churchill, and Gandhi as leaders who shaped our world.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Victorious in Defeat by Alexander V. Pantsov is seen as a long overdue reappraisal of Chiang Kai-shek's life, offering a refreshing perspective on his complex character. Drawing from Russian archives and newly available materials, the book challenges both negative and positive portrayals of Chiang, revealing fresh insights into his leadership and political challenges. The narrative is praised for providing a gripping, masterful account that those interested in China's history should not miss.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300260205

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 06 May 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 31 b-w illus.

Contributors:

  • Translated by Steven I. Levine

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 736

About the Author

Alexander V. Pantsov is a professor of history and holds the Edward and Mary Catharine Gerhold Chair in the Humanities at Capital University. He lives in Westerville, OH.

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