Mao Zedong's "On Protracted War" argues that China can defeat Japan, despite Japan's superior military strength, through a strategy of prolonged warfare. The book details how China's vast size, population, and the political will of its people will allow it to outlast and ultimately defeat the invading Japanese forces. This strategy involves transforming the war into one of attrition, where China leverages its strengths to wear down Japan's resources and morale over an extended period.
The core of Mao's argument rests on the concept of "protracted war," which requires a deep understanding of the nature of both offensive and defensive warfare, as well as strategic offensive and tactical defense. He emphasizes the importance of the mobilization of the masses and the development of a strong, unified Communist Party leadership to guide the resistance. Readers gain insight into a specific theory of irregular warfare designed for national liberation against a technologically superior aggressor.
Key concepts
- Protracted War — A military strategy where a weaker nation uses its size and population to outlast a stronger aggressor through a prolonged conflict.
- Strategic Offensive and Tactical Defense — The principle of maintaining the initiative strategically while conducting defensive operations tactically.
- Mobilization of the Masses — The process of engaging and organizing the civilian population to support and participate in the war effort.
- Nature of Offensive and Defensive Warfare — An analysis distinguishing the characteristics and requirements of both offensive and defensive military operations.