Chronology Entry
Year
1921.10
Text
Dewey, John. The tenth anniversary of the Republic of China [ID D28490].
A Message
For those who believe in the Chinese people and who also believe in their genuinely democratic character, the Tenth Anniversary of the declaration of the Republic of China is an occasion for both congratulation and sorrow. Congratulation that the country has at least faced toward a goal where its strength, happiness and freedom may be found; regret that the Republic is still so largely only a name, and that under cover of this name autocratic and militaristic forces have won power in China's domestic affairs. If we look at the political condition of the country, either in the nation at large, in most of the provinces or the cities, we have to admit that while the Revolution of ten years ago succeeded in overthrowing the Manchu dynasty, it is not as yet a complete revolution in any positive sense. The revolution as a transfer of power and authority to the people, as a liberation of the common people from a corrupt, despotic and ignorant oligarchy has still for the most part to be accomplished.
Nevertheless two years stay in China and visits to capitals of eleven of its provinces have convinced me that the signs of progress are unmistakable. I even believe that many of the things which, taken superficially, are discouraging, in reality mark the stirring of forces which in the next decade are going to accomplish great things for China. I shall not go into detail, but the most impressive single feature of my stay in China was witnessing the sure and rapid growth of an enlightened and progressive public opinion. The power of moral and intellectual force in China is so great that all lovers of China may take heart and courage and have faith that the people are going to win in their great struggle for a Republic which will be one in fact and not merely in name. As one of these lovers of China and as one who has faith in its destiny, I wish to add my humble voice to the many which upon the Tenth of October will acclaim the foundation of China as a Republic.
A Message
For those who believe in the Chinese people and who also believe in their genuinely democratic character, the Tenth Anniversary of the declaration of the Republic of China is an occasion for both congratulation and sorrow. Congratulation that the country has at least faced toward a goal where its strength, happiness and freedom may be found; regret that the Republic is still so largely only a name, and that under cover of this name autocratic and militaristic forces have won power in China's domestic affairs. If we look at the political condition of the country, either in the nation at large, in most of the provinces or the cities, we have to admit that while the Revolution of ten years ago succeeded in overthrowing the Manchu dynasty, it is not as yet a complete revolution in any positive sense. The revolution as a transfer of power and authority to the people, as a liberation of the common people from a corrupt, despotic and ignorant oligarchy has still for the most part to be accomplished.
Nevertheless two years stay in China and visits to capitals of eleven of its provinces have convinced me that the signs of progress are unmistakable. I even believe that many of the things which, taken superficially, are discouraging, in reality mark the stirring of forces which in the next decade are going to accomplish great things for China. I shall not go into detail, but the most impressive single feature of my stay in China was witnessing the sure and rapid growth of an enlightened and progressive public opinion. The power of moral and intellectual force in China is so great that all lovers of China may take heart and courage and have faith that the people are going to win in their great struggle for a Republic which will be one in fact and not merely in name. As one of these lovers of China and as one who has faith in its destiny, I wish to add my humble voice to the many which upon the Tenth of October will acclaim the foundation of China as a Republic.
Mentioned People (1)
Dewey, John
(Burlington 1859-1952 New York, N.Y.) : Philosoph, Pädagoge, Psychologe
Subjects
History : China
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Periods : China : Republic (1912-1949)
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Philosophy : United States of America
Documents (1)
| # | Year | Bibliographical Data | Type / Abbreviation | Linked Data |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1921.10 | Dewey, John. The tenth anniversary of the Republic of China. In : China review ; vol. 1, Oct. (1921). In : Dewey, John. The middle works. Vol. 13 : 1921-1922. Ed. by Jo Ann Boydston. (Carbondale, Ill. : Southern Illinois University Press, 1976-1983). | Publication / DewJ34 |
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