This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. To remember history, recall the martyrs, cherish peace, and open up to the future, a nationwide news initiative titled “Tracing the Footprints of the War of Resistance, Inheriting the Power of Revival” has been launched. Guided by the China Municipal Newspaper Research Association and hosted by the Zhenjiang Press and Media Group, this joint effort involves media outlets across the country, covering about 80 cities in 23 provinces/autonomous regions/municipalities directly under the central government.

Rooted in historical exploration, the initiative adopts a contemporary perspective to interpret the complex historical context and deeply connects with the grand process of national rejuvenation, aiming to systematically uncover evidence of Japanese aggression preserved in archives, memorial halls, and private institutions, restore historical truths through original documents, photos, and artifacts so as to preserve memories of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Field visits to war relics and battle sites aim to comprehensively reconstruct historical scenarios from strategic deployments to trench details. The campaign will focus on the personal stories of commanders, soldiers, and civilians who supported the war effort. By uncovering forgotten historical details and linking them with contemporary development issues, the initiative tells living stories such as the resistance history of border villages and their connection to rural revitalization, and the transformation of wartime workshops into modern industrial parks. Drawing wisdom from history to inspire present-day practice, it conveys to the world the Chinese people’s unwavering commitment to remembering history and treasuring peace.

Over eight decades, the national spirit forged by the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression will shine even more brilliantly in the new era, illuminating the magnificent journey of national rejuvenation. This initiative represents a major campaign to publicize the history of the war, witness its relics, showcase the legacy of the times, and ignite patriotic enthusiasm. Media outlets nationwide will seize this opportunity to tell compelling stories of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the heroic struggles of the Chinese people.

(Translated by Yang Hong)