Decoding China's Century of Humiliation: Relevance of History and the Impact on Sino-Japanese and Sino-U.S. Relations
Abstract
During the period of 1840-1949, a period that China now calls its Century of Humiliation, China suffered continuous military defeats to Japan and the West, and reluctantly signed numerous treaties that resulted in the loss of Chinese treasure and sovereignty. China aggrandizes the events of its Century of Humiliation to incite nationalism and anti-Japanese/anti-Western sentiment for three connected outcomes: the creation of a narrative to focus its citizens unrest toward a common enemy, to excite its citizens to show political resolve, and to signal to the international community diplomatic intent and willingness for escalation. This creates a conundrum for Japan and the West in how they deal with China. Japan and the West can recognize Chinas unrest and plight and succumb to Chinese escalation in recognition of their role in humiliating China; or, Japan and the West can ignore Chinas propaganda, risk escalation, and face an outpouring of Chinese nationalism stimulated by the Chinese government. Alternatively, this paper will propose a third option, the creation of an Interagency Strategic Communications Group with the sole purpose of countering Chinas propaganda and disinformation by exposing Chinas narrative for what it is: the glorification of half-truths.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1050913
Entities
People
- Luke B. Casper