90th Anniversary of the People's Liberation Army

Celebrating 90 Years of the People’s Liberation Army

The year 2017 marked a significant milestone for China as it celebrated the 90th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). This event was not just a commemoration of the military's rich history, but also a demonstration of China's growing military prowess and national pride.

Formation of the People’s Liberation Army

The People's Liberation Army was founded on August 1, 1927, during a difficult period in China's history characterized by warlord conflicts and societal unrest. Originally formed as a red army under the Communist Party, the PLA played a crucial role in the Chinese Civil War and has since evolved into one of the world's largest and most capable military forces.

Xi Jinping’s Leadership at the Event

On this auspicious occasion, Chinese President Xi Jinping commanded the attention of the nation by overseeing a grand military parade featuring 12,000 troops at the Zhurihe training base in Inner Mongolia. His presence highlighted the importance of military strength and the government's commitment to national defense amidst global tensions.

The Significance of the Parade

The military parade was not only a display of China's military capability but also an occasion to showcase unity and strength. It featured various modern weaponry and technologies, emphasizing China's advancements and modernization efforts.

Modernization of the PLA

Under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, the PLA has undergone significant modernization. This reflects China’s ambition to transform its military from a predominantly land army to a sophisticated modern military capable of engaging in advanced warfare. The parade showcased many of these developments, illustrating the PLA's readiness and commitment to securing China's interests.

National Unity and Pride

The celebration of the PLA's 90th anniversary served to inspire a sense of national pride and unity among the Chinese people. By highlighting the sacrifices made by soldiers and the efforts of past generations, the event reinforced the connection between the military and the nation’s identity.

Fun Fact

A Remarkable Transformation of the PLA

Did you know that since its founding in 1927, the People's Liberation Army has transformed from a small guerilla force into a sophisticated military with global reach? This evolution underscores China's rapidly changing role on the world stage.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on the People’s Liberation Army

For those interested in learning more about the PLA, consider reading The People's Liberation Army: A Modern Army and China’s Military Modernization: Building for Regional and Global Reach. These works dive deep into the complexities and recent advancements within the PLA.