Flashcard on China's History and the Korean War

Front

What was the purpose of the Great Leap Forward mentioned in the document?

Back

To boost agricultural and industrial production

Answer explanation

The Great Leap Forward aimed to rapidly increase agricultural and industrial production in China, focusing on collective farming and industrial projects to transform the economy.

Front

What is the significance of the Pusan Perimeter in the context of the Korean War?

Back

It was a major battle site.

Answer explanation

The Pusan Perimeter was a critical defensive line during the Korean War, where UN forces held off North Korean advances. It was indeed a major battle site, marking a turning point in the conflict.

Front

What does the term "demilitarized zone" refer to in the context of Korea?

Back

A neutral area between North and South Korea

Answer explanation

The term "demilitarized zone" (DMZ) refers to a neutral area between North and South Korea, established to reduce military tensions and prevent conflict. It is not a fortified area, cultural site, or industrial zone.

Front

Who was the leader that declared the founding of the People's Republic of China?

Back

Mao Zedong

Answer explanation

Mao Zedong declared the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949, marking the establishment of a communist state. Sun Yat-sen and Chiang Kai-shek were earlier leaders, while Deng Xiaoping came later.

Front

What was the political status of China before the Communist victory in 1949?

Back

Divided between Communists and Nationalists

Answer explanation

Before the Communist victory in 1949, China was politically divided between the Communists, led by Mao Zedong, and the Nationalists, led by Chiang Kai-shek. This division led to a civil war that ultimately resulted in the Communist takeover.

Front

Which leader's forces gained control of China in 1949?

Back

Mao Zedong

Answer explanation

Mao Zedong led the Communist Party of China to victory in the Chinese Civil War, resulting in the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, while Jiang Jieshi's forces retreated to Taiwan.

Front

What was one reason Mao's Communists were able to gain support in China?

Back

They redistributed land to peasants.

Answer explanation

Mao's Communists gained support by redistributing land to peasants, addressing their needs and grievances. This promise contrasted sharply with the existing landlord system, making the Communists more appealing to the rural population.

Front

What did the Communist government discourage in China?

Back

Traditional Chinese religions

Answer explanation

The Communist government in China discouraged traditional Chinese religions as they were seen as a threat to the state's authority and ideology, promoting atheism instead.

Front

What was the initial action taken by Mao to boost agriculture?

Back

He distributed land to peasants

Answer explanation

Mao's initial action to boost agriculture was distributing land to peasants, which aimed to empower them and increase productivity. This was a key part of his agrarian reform strategy.

Front

What was the initial perception of the Communist triumph in China for the Soviet Union?

Back

A gain

Answer explanation

The Soviet Union viewed the Communist triumph in China as a gain, as it expanded the influence of communism in Asia and strengthened their ideological alliance, enhancing their global standing against Western powers.