Why does China occupy Manchuria?
China's occupation and control over Manchuria are rooted in a complex historical context involving various periods and events.
Historical Context
Manchuria, located in Northeast China, was originally the homeland of the Manchu people, who conquered China and established the Qing dynasty in the 17th century. During the Qing era, Manchuria was reserved exclusively for the Manchus, with restrictions on Han Chinese settlement to preserve Manchu culture and control3.
Qing Dynasty and Han Chinese Migration
Despite these restrictions, the Qing dynasty eventually allowed Han Chinese to settle in Manchuria, particularly during the 18th century, to cultivate land and restore areas affected by natural disasters. This led to a significant influx of Han Chinese, who by the 19th century had become the majority population in urban areas of Manchuria1.
Foreign Influence and Imperialism
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Manchuria became a focal point of imperialist competition between Russia and Japan. Following the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, Japan replaced Russian influence in southern Manchuria. However, after the Chinese Revolution of 1911, Manchuria came under the nominal control of local warlords, with Japan exerting significant influence through concessions and military support24.
Japanese Occupation and Manchukuo
In 1931, Japan invaded Manchuria and established the puppet state of Manchukuo, with the last Qing emperor, Puyi, as its figurehead. This period saw brutal Japanese rule and the displacement of local populations, including Manchu farmers, to make way for Japanese settlers124.
Post-WWII and Chinese Civil War
After Japan's defeat in World War II, the Soviet Union invaded Manchuria in August 1945, leading to the region's return to Chinese control. During the Chinese Civil War, Manchuria served as a crucial base for the Chinese Communist Party, which ultimately emerged victorious in 194912.
Modern Era
Today, Manchuria is an integral part of China, known as Northeast China, and is predominantly populated by Han Chinese due to centuries of migration and settlement. The region's historical significance, strategic location, and economic importance have solidified its place within the Chinese state13.
In summary, China occupies Manchuria due to a combination of historical migration patterns, the dissolution of the Qing dynasty's restrictions, and the eventual expulsion of foreign powers following World War II, leading to the region's integration into the modern Chinese state.