Relationship Between KMT

and CPC
This document explores the complex and evolving relationship between the Kuomintang (KMT) and
the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) over the course of Chinese history, from early interactions to
modern cross-strait tensions and economic ties.

by Royan Raj
Historical Background
The KMT and CPC have a long and intertwined history, dating back to the
early 20th century. They initially cooperated in the Northern Expedition to
overthrow the Beiyang government, but soon turned on each other in the
Chinese Civil War.
Early Interactions and Cooperation
In the 1920s, the KMT and CPC formed the First United Front, collaborating to overthrow the Beiyang
government. They combined their military forces and worked together, albeit with underlying tensions
and competing ideologies.
Conflict and Civil War
The cooperative relationship between the KMT and CPC deteriorated, leading to the Chinese Civil War
in 1927. The two parties engaged in a prolonged and bloody conflict, with the CPC eventually emerging
victorious and establishing the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949.

1 KMT-CPC Cooperation Ends

The KMT and CPC turn on each other, leading to the start of the Chinese Civil War.

2 CPC Victory and PRC Establishment

The CPC triumphs in the Civil War and proclaims the founding of the People's Republic
of China in 1949.

3 KMT Retreat to Taiwan

The defeated KMT forces flee to the island of Taiwan, establishing the Republic of China
(ROC) government there.
Cross-Strait Relations and Tensions
The relationship between the PRC and the ROC on Taiwan has been marked by ongoing tensions and
periodic crises. Both governments claim to be the legitimate representatives of China, leading to a
complex and delicate political situation in the Taiwan Strait.

1 Competing Claims 2 Potential for 3 Diplomatic

of Legitimacy
The PRC and ROC both
assert that they are the
rightful government of
China, leading to a
standoff.
Conflict
The unresolved status of
Taiwan and the possibility
of a military conflict
between the two sides is
a constant source of
concern.
Maneuvering
Both the PRC and ROC
engage in diplomatic
efforts to gain
international recognition
and support for their
respective positions.
Establishment of the PRC and KMT
Retreat to Taiwan
After the CPC's victory in the Civil War, the KMT retreated to the island of Taiwan, where they
established the Republic of China (ROC) government. This marked the beginning of the political
separation between the mainland PRC and the island of Taiwan.
Economic and Trade Ties
Despite the political tensions, the PRC and Taiwan have developed significant economic and trade
relationships over the past few decades. Taiwan has become a major investor in the Chinese mainland,
and the two sides have established various economic and trade agreements.

Economic Cross-Strait Tensions and Concerns

Interdependence
The economies of the PRC
and Taiwan have become
increasingly intertwined, with
deep trade and investment
ties.
Agreements
The two sides have signed a
number of agreements to
facilitate economic
cooperation, such as the
ECFA.
However, economic ties have
not necessarily led to
improved political relations,
and there are still concerns
about Taiwan's economic
dependence on the mainland.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The relationship between the KMT and the CPC has been a complex and ever-evolving one, marked by
both cooperation and conflict. As cross-strait tensions continue to simmer, the future of this
relationship remains uncertain, with implications for the stability and prosperity of the region.