# Republic of China

> 1912–1949 country in Asia

**Wikidata**: [Q13426199](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q13426199)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_China_(1912–1949))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/republic-of-china

## Summary
The Republic of China was a country in Asia that existed from 1912 to 1949. It was established after the Xinhai Revolution, which overthrew the Qing Dynasty, and served as the official government of China until it was replaced by the People's Republic of China in 1949. The Republic of China is notable for its role in modern Chinese history, particularly during the Warlord Era and the Chinese Civil War.

## Key Facts
- **Existed from**: January 1, 1912 to October 1, 1949
- **Official Name**: 中華民國 (Zhōnghuá Mínguó)
- **Capital**: Nanjing (1912–1928), Beijing (1928–1949)
- **Area**: Approximately 9.6 million square kilometers
- **Population**: Around 50 million people at its peak
- **Government Type**: Constitutional republic, presidential system
- **Head of State**: President of the Republic of China
- **Head of Government**: Premier of the Republic of China
- **Legislative Body**: National Assembly
- **Constitution**: Adopted in 1928
- **National Flag**: Flag of the Republic of China
- **National Anthem**: "The Song to the Auspicious Cloud"
- **Coat of Arms**: Coat of arms of the Republic of China
- **Driving Side**: Right-hand traffic
- **Timezone**: UTC+08:00 (China Standard Time)
- **Electricity**: 110V, 60Hz (plugs: Type A, Type B)
- **Emergency Numbers**: 110 (police), 119 (fire), 120 (ambulance)
- **International Calling Code**: +86
- **Internet TLD**: .cn, .中国, .中國
- **ISO Codes**: Alpha-2: CN, Alpha-3: CHN, Numeric: 156
- **M49 Code**: 156
- **License Plate Code**: RC
- **Coordinates**: 35.844722°N, 103.451944°E
- **Highest Point**: Mount Everest (8,848 meters)
- **Lowest Point**: Ayding Lake (-154 meters)
- **Continent**: Asia
- **Bordering Countries**: Mongolia, Russia, North Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, India, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan; maritime borders with South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia
- **Nominal GDP**: $17.96 trillion (2022)
- **Gini Coefficient**: 38.2 (2019)
- **VAT Rate**: 13%
- **Life Expectancy**: 79 years (2022)
- **Literacy Rate**: 96.8% (2018)
- **Median Income**: 36,883 RMB (2022)
- **Unemployment Rate**: 5% (2014)
- **Human Development Index**: 0.768 (2021), classified as "High"
- **Major Ethnic Groups**: Han Chinese (91.6%), Zhuang (1.3%), Hui (0.8%), Uyghurs (0.8%), Manchu (0.8%), Tibetan (0.5%), Miao (0.7%), Yi (0.7%)
- **Age of Majority**: 18 years
- **Compulsory Education Minimum Age**: 6 years

## FAQs
**What type of government did the Republic of China have?**
The Republic of China operated as a constitutional republic with a presidential system. The President served as the head of state, while the Premier served as the head of government. The legislative body was the National Assembly.

**What is the Republic of China's economic profile?**
The Republic of China had a mixed economy with significant industrial and agricultural sectors. It was a major trading partner and had a strong manufacturing base. The Gini coefficient was 38.2 (2019), indicating moderate income inequality.

**What international organizations was the Republic of China a member of?**
The Republic of China was a member of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and International Monetary Fund.

**What are the Republic of China's territorial claims and administrative divisions?**
The Republic of China claimed sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considered a province. It administered Hong Kong and Macau as Special Administrative Regions. Mainland China was divided into 23 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities, and 2 special administrative regions.

**What is the Republic of China's demographic profile?**
With approximately 50 million people, the Republic of China was one of the most populous countries in Asia. The population was predominantly Han Chinese (91.6%), with 55 recognized ethnic minorities. The literacy rate was 96.8%, and life expectancy was 79 years.

**What are the Republic of China's major diplomatic relationships?**
The Republic of China maintained diplomatic relations with over 180 countries. Key relationships included the United States (since 1979), Russia (since 1949), Japan (since 1972), India (since 1950), and ASEAN countries.

## Why It Matters
The Republic of China played a significant role in modern Chinese history, particularly during the Warlord Era and the Chinese Civil War. It served as the official government of China until it was replaced by the People's Republic of China in 1949. The Republic of China's influence extended beyond its borders, with its government and military playing key roles in international affairs. The country's economic transformation and technological advancements positioned it as a major player in the global economy. Culturally, the Republic of China represents one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations, contributing significantly to philosophy, art, literature, science, and technology throughout history.

## Notable For
- **World's Most Populous Country**: Approximately 50 million people, accounting for about 18% of the global population
- **Second Largest Economy**: Nominal GDP of approximately $17.96 trillion (2022), behind only the United States
- **Permanent UN Security Council Member**: Holds veto power as one of five permanent members since 1971
- **Ancient Civilization**: Over 5,000 years of continuous recorded history
- **Four Great Inventions**: Paper, gunpowder, compass, and printing
- **Great Wall of China**: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, spanning over 13,000 miles
- **Rapid Economic Growth**: Average annual GDP growth rate of approximately 10% over three decades following 1978 reforms
- **Largest Trading Partner**: For over 120 countries, making it the world's largest trading nation
- **Largest Foreign Exchange Reserves**: Over $3 trillion in foreign currency reserves
- **Space Program**: Independent space program with lunar missions and space station plans
- **High-Speed Rail Network**: World's largest high-speed rail network exceeding 25,000 miles
- **Global Manufacturing Hub**: Produces approximately 30% of global manufacturing output
- **Poverty Reduction**: Lifted over 800 million people out of poverty since reforms began

## Body
### History and Foundation
The Republic of China was established on January 1, 1912, following the Xinhai Revolution, which overthrew the Qing Dynasty. The founding of the Republic of China marked the end of imperial rule in China and the beginning of a new era of political and social change. The Republic of China's government was based in Nanjing, which served as the capital from 1912 to 1928. In 1928, the capital was moved to Beijing, which remained the capital until 1949.

The Republic of China's establishment was the result of a complex political landscape, with multiple factions vying for power. The Warlord Era, which followed the establishment of the Republic of China, was marked by political instability and regional warlordism. The Chinese Civil War, which began in 1927, was a major conflict that pitted the Nationalist government against the Communist Party. The Republic of China was defeated in the Chinese Civil War and was replaced by the People's Republic of China in 1949.

### Geography and Environment
China occupies approximately 9.6 million square kilometers in East Asia, making it the third-largest country by land area after Russia and Canada. The country's vast territory spans diverse geographical features including mountains, plateaus, plains, and deserts. The terrain is predominantly mountainous, with the Himalayas in the southwest containing Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,848 meters.

The country shares land borders with 14 nations: Mongolia, Russia, North Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, India, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. China's eastern coastline extends over 14,500 kilometers, bordering the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and South China Sea.

China's lowest point is Ayding Lake at -154 meters in the Turpan Depression, while its geographic center is approximately at 35.844722°N, 103.451944°E. The country contains several major river systems including the Yangtze (Chang Jiang), Yellow River (Huang He), Pearl River (Zhu Jiang), and Heilongjiang.

### Government and Politics
China operates as a socialist republic under the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which holds a monopoly on political power. The state apparatus is structured according to the principle of democratic centralism. The highest state organs include the National People's Congress (legislative), the State Council (executive), the Supreme People's Court (judicial), and the Supreme People's Procuratorate (procuratorate).

Xi Jinping has served as President since 2013 and General Secretary of the CCP since 2012, holding multiple leadership positions including Chairman of the Central Military Commission. Li Qiang became Premier in March 2023, succeeding Li Keqiang. The political system prohibits opposition parties, with only eight minor parties permitted to exist under CCP leadership.

The Constitution of the People's Republic of China serves as the supreme legal document, last amended in 2018. The constitution establishes the socialist system and outlines the fundamental rights and duties of citizens, though human rights organizations note significant restrictions on political freedoms.

### Economy and Trade
China's economy has experienced unprecedented growth since the late 1978 reforms under Deng Xiaoping, transitioning from a centrally planned system to a mixed economy. The nominal GDP reached approximately $17.96 trillion in 2022, making China the world's second-largest economy. In terms of purchasing power parity, China has been the largest economy since 2016.

The country is the world's largest manufacturing nation, producing approximately 30% of global manufacturing output. Key industries include electronics, machinery, textiles, chemicals, and automobiles. China is also the largest exporter of goods and the second-largest importer, with major trading partners including the United States, Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries.

The service sector has grown significantly and now accounts for over 50% of GDP, while agriculture employs approximately 25% of the workforce. Foreign direct investment remains substantial, with China being one of the most attractive destinations for international investors. The country has also expanded its outbound investment through the Belt and Road Initiative.

### Demographics and Society
China's population of approximately 1.44 billion makes it the world's most populous nation. The population growth rate has slowed significantly due to the former one-child policy (1979-2015), though the policy has been replaced by a two-child and then three-child policy. The median age is approximately 38 years, and the country is experiencing an aging population challenge.

The Han Chinese ethnic group comprises approximately 91.6% of the population, with 55 recognized ethnic minorities including Zhuang, Hui, Uyghurs, Manchus, Tibetans, Miao, and Yi. These minorities are concentrated in autonomous regions and border areas. Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua) is the official language, though numerous regional dialects and minority languages are spoken.

Urbanization has accelerated dramatically, with over 900 million people (approximately 64% of the population) living in urban areas as of 2020. Major urban centers include Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chongqing. The literacy rate stands at 96.8%, and life expectancy is approximately 79 years.

### Culture and Society
Chinese culture represents one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations, with written history spanning over 3,000 years. Traditional Chinese culture encompasses philosophy (Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism), literature, visual arts, music, cuisine, and martial arts. The country has made significant contributions to world civilization including the Four Great Inventions: papermaking, gunpowder, the compass, and printing.

Contemporary Chinese culture blends traditional elements with modern influences. The film industry, particularly in Hong Kong and mainland China, has gained international recognition. Chinese cuisine varies significantly by region and is celebrated worldwide. Traditional festivals including Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Qingming remain culturally significant.

The education system emphasizes mathematics and science, with Chinese students consistently performing well in international assessments. The country has expanded higher education significantly, with numerous universities achieving international recognition. The Chinese language and culture have spread globally through diaspora communities and Confucius Institutes.

### International Relations
China maintains diplomatic relations with over 180 countries and is a member of numerous international organizations. The United Nations seat was transferred from the Republic of China to the PRC in 1971, and China has been a permanent member of the Security Council since then. China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, integrating more fully into the global trading system.

Key bilateral relationships include the United States, Russia, Japan, India, and neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. China-US relations are particularly significant and complex, involving trade disputes, technological competition, and geopolitical tensions. China-Russia strategic partnership has strengthened in recent years, particularly in energy and military cooperation.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes Taiwanese independence, maintaining that reunification is a core national interest. The Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions operate under the "one country, two systems" framework, though Beijing's tightening control has raised international concerns.

### Military and Security
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is one of the world's largest military forces, with approximately 2 million active personnel. It consists of ground forces, navy, air force, and rocket force (strategic missiles). China has invested significantly in modernizing its military capabilities, including advanced aircraft, naval vessels, and cyber warfare capabilities.

The PLA Navy has expanded significantly, operating aircraft carriers and modern submarines. The air force has acquired advanced fighter jets and is developing stealth aircraft. China's nuclear deterrent consists of land-based missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and strategic bombers.

Defense spending is the second-highest in the world after the United States, though official figures represent only a portion of actual military-related expenditure according to some analysts. The military is under the command of the Central Military Commission, currently chaired by Xi Jinping.

### Technology and Infrastructure
China has made significant advances in technology and infrastructure. The country operates the world's largest high-speed rail network, exceeding 25,000 miles of high-speed lines. Major infrastructure projects include the Three Gorges Dam (world's largest power station), extensive highway networks, and modern airports.

In technology, China has become a leader in telecommunications, particularly 5G, with companies like Huawei and ZTE global leaders. The space program has achieved significant milestones including lunar exploration, independent space station development, and plans for Mars missions. China is also investing heavily in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.

The digital economy has grown rapidly, with major Chinese technology companies including Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu, and ByteDance achieving global significance. Mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay have transformed consumer finance, with China leading the world in mobile payment adoption.

### Administrative Divisions
China's mainland is divided into 23 provinces: Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, Zhejiang, and Guangxi (autonomous).

Five autonomous regions include Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Tibet (Xizang), and Guangxi. Four municipalities are Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Chongqing. Two Special Administrative Regions are Hong Kong and Macau, each with separate administrative systems under the "one country, two systems" framework.

Taiwan is claimed by the PRC as Taiwan Province, though it is administered separately by the Republic of China government. Historical provinces include Pingyuan (1949-1952) and Xikang (1950-1955).

### Symbols and National Identity
The national flag of the PRC features five stars on a red background, representing unity under the leadership of the CCP. The national anthem is "March of the Volunteers," originally written in 1935. The national emblem features the Gate of Heavenly Peace, gear, wheat and rice ears, and five stars, symbolizing the People's Republic.

The national motto is not officially codified, though various slogans have been used. The national flower is the plum blossom, symbolizing resilience in Chinese culture. The national animal is the giant panda, which serves as a diplomatic symbol and is endemic to China.

### International Organizations and Memberships
China holds membership in numerous international organizations including the United Nations and its specialized agencies (UNESCO, WHO, FAO, ILO, ITU, WMO), the World Trade Organization (since 2001), the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, Interpol, and the Asian Development Bank.

China is a founding member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the BRICS group (with Brazil, Russia, India, South Africa, and later expanded), and the G20. China participates in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the ASEAN Regional Forum. The country is also a signatory to the Antarctic Treaty System and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

### Related Entities and Connected Organizations
China is closely associated with numerous state-owned enterprises and institutions including the People's Bank of China (central bank), China National Petroleum Corporation, Sinopec, China Railway, and China State Construction Engineering. Major technology companies headquartered in China include Tencent (WeChat), Alibaba (Tmall), Baidu, NetEase, and ByteDance.

Educational institutions including Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Fudan University are among China's most prestigious. The Chinese Academy of Sciences serves as the primary research institution. Cultural organizations include the Chinese Artist Association and various traditional arts preservation societies.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013