The Wars for Asia, 1911-1949

The Wars for Asia is a masterpiece of historical analysis. It casts a new light on the history of World War II and, in the process, it reveals the enduring foundations of current political rivalries over the Eurasian landmass and the Pacific Ocean. The book demonstrates that what we usually refer to as World War II is the interlocking interaction of three different conflicts -- the Chinese Civil War, the regional war between China and Japan, and the global war pitting the US and its allies against the Axis powers. Each one of these conflicts had its own logic and… show more.

This book offers an excellent overview of the military history of Asia in the first half of the twentieth century, focusing especially on the grand strategies of China, Japan, and Russia/USSR in the era under consideration. 

It correctly highlights the fact that World War II began in Asia and connects this to broader historical developments that impelled Japan to attempt continental conquest in search of resources. The excellence of the work stems from the author’s ability to carefully offer a balanced analysis of the decisions of the major actors. 

Rather than simply look at the success or failure of specific… show more.