China Frame by Frame: a Unique Look at the History and Culture of China

This section outlines the tumultuous history of China from the early 20th century through the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. It covers the fall of the Qing dynasty, the rise and fall of the Republic, warlord era, Japanese invasion, civil wars, and the eventual establishment of communist rule. The narrative is introduced by Bill Einreinhoffer, who shares his extensive career in television and documentaries, particularly focused on China. He describes his journey from a novice visiting China to becoming a 'footage detective', uncovering rare historical film footage to reveal the complex history and relationships between China and America.

This section explores the experiences of foreign children raised in China during the first half of the 20th century. These children, including those of business executives, doctors, and missionaries, lived bilingual and bicultural lives, integrating fully into Chinese society. The narrative contrasts the harsh realities of life for many Chinese people at the time, marked by poverty, disease, and early death, with the insulated lives of foreigners. The sovereignty issues faced by China, the parallel yet separate lives of foreigners and Chinese, and the personal stories of individuals who straddled both cultures, such as Ronald Morris and Jewish refugees in Shanghai, are highlighted.

This paragraph delves into the contributions of foreign missionaries and medical professionals in China during the 1930s and 1940s, focusing on their efforts to provide education and healthcare in areas of desperate poverty. It highlights the difference these individuals made in the lives of many Chinese people, offering a glimpse of compassion and cultural exchange amid widespread suffering. The narrative also touches on the complex relationship between foreigners and China, including the varied impacts of foreign presence, from the educational missions to the biased portrayal of China in Western newsreels.

This section details the severe consequences of Japanese occupation in China, from the invasion of Manchuria to the full-scale war following the Shanghai incident. It covers the strategies of both Chinese nationalists and communists in resisting the Japanese, emphasizing the brutal reality of the occupation that affected millions. The narrative transitions to the unique position of China during World War II, highlighting the ironic twist of China becoming an ally of the United States after the Pearl Harbor attack and the subsequent plight of foreigners in Japanese-occupied China.

Following the end of World War II and Japan's surrender, this paragraph captures the mixed emotions and political turmoil in China. While there was relief and hope for peace, underlying tensions and the desire for all foreign troops to leave highlighted the complex aftermath of the war. The failed attempts by General George C. Marshall to establish a coalition government and the resumption of civil war between the communists and nationalists underscore the ongoing strife and the challenging path toward rebuilding the nation.

This section recounts the continuation of civil war in China after WWII, the decline of Nationalist forces, and the rise of the Communists led by Mao Zedong. It portrays the shifting power dynamics, with the Communist victory leading to the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The narrative provides insight into the military and strategic aspects of this period, including the effectiveness of General Lin Biao and the impact of foreign support on the outcome of the conflict.

Exploring China's transformation post-1972, this paragraph highlights the nation's opening up to the world and the significant changes that ensued. Bill Einreinhoffer shares his personal experiences of visiting China, noting the stark contrast from his expectations based on Western media. The narrative also touches on China's space program, reflecting the country's aspirations and advancements in technology and global presence.

This section reflects on the rapid changes in China's economy and society during the 1990s, characterized by a newfound consumer culture and the embrace of globalization. It depicts the transformation of state-owned enterprises, the introduction of foreign investments, and the changing lifestyle of the Chinese people, highlighted by the rise of leisure activities, consumerism, and the emerging middle class.