As China marks 80 years since war against Japan, can time heal historical wounds?

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The Chinese government has, for decades, kept memories of the war vivid through efforts such as school lessons, popular films, museum exhibitions and commemorative events, including ceremonies held annually on Sept 18 to mark the Mukden Incident of 1931, a false-flag event staged by the Japanese military to invade Manchuria.

Dead To Rights sparked discussion on Chinese social media, with some asking whether such heavy topics are suitable for children. Others asked if it amounted to “hatred education” by teaching the young to be anti-Japanese.

There has been precedent of incidents related to historical events. On Sept 18, 2024, a Japanese boy was murdered on his way to school in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. That day marked 93 years since the Mukden Incident.

“This is not to perpetuate hatred, but to bear in mind the lessons of history... jointly cherish and safeguard peace, and prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies,

state-sanctioned crimes of the Manchukuo-based Japanese germ-warfare unit that conducted human testing, mainly on Chinese and Korean prisoners to develop biological weapons

The Communist Party of China has long used historical memory to legitimise its rule, making the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression central to its patriotic education

Qns:

1. How far is it possible for one country to forgive another for its past actions? (Cam. 2015)

2. ‘Films are concerned with escaping from the problems of everyday life, rather than addressing them.’ Discuss. (Cam. 2021)

3. ’Regret for past actions is vital for progress.’ What is your view? (Cam. 2023)