1945-1949

1945: After fighting together against Japan during World War II, the Nationalist Kuomingtang (KMT) led by Gen. Chiang Kai-Shek and Communists led by Mao Zedong, resume their battle for political control of the country. Communists steadily gain ground until 1949, when Nanjing falls to Mao. Chiang and his followers flee to Formosa, later called Taiwan. Portrait of a smiling Chiang Kai-shek.

1947: Mao Zedong proclaims the founding of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing. Chiang Kai-Shek’s KMT seizes complete control of Formosa. Chiang vows to return to conquer the mainland.

1949: Proclamation of People’s Republic of China after the fall of Nanking. Chiang Kai-Shek’s Kuomintang seize complete control of Formosa. Chiang vows to return to conquer the mainland someday.