“Let’s rebuild our cultural fortress” Guo Moruo wrote. These words encapsulate the spirit of the \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740. This site stands as a testament to a pivotal period in Chinese history. It reflects the indomitable will of a nation resisting foreign invasion.
The \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740 is located in Guilin. You can find it at No. 8, Taiping Road, Xiufeng District. It served as the office for the “Salvation Daily” newspaper from early January 1939 to February 28, 1941.
The “Salvation Daily” newspaper emerged during the War of Resistance against Japan. It was a platform for the Chinese cultural community’s resistance efforts. The paper was known for its leftist leanings. It played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion against the Japanese.
Initially founded in Shanghai in May 1938, the newspaper relocated to Guangzhou. It then moved to Guilin before the Japanese army advanced. The \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740 in Guilin marks a significant chapter in the newspaper’s history. Another site exists. It is the former printing factory of the “Salvation Daily”.
The paper was a joint effort between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party. Guo Moruo served as the publisher representing the Communist Party. Xia Yan was the editor-in-chief. Lin Lin served as the deputy editor. From the Kuomintang side, Yao Zhongyun was the editor-in-chief. Wang Xiangquan headed the editorial department. Zhou Hanmei acted as manager.
The \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740 covers an area of 337.42 square meters. The building comprises two sections. The front features a two-story wooden structure spanning 192 square meters. The rear is a two-story brick and wood building covering 129 square meters.
In 1984, the Guilin Municipal Government recognized its historical value. It declared the site a Municipal Cultural Relic Protection Unit. In 2011, the city’s cultural heritage department renovated the building. They adhered to the principle of preserving the original state of the relic. The roof framework was completely dismantled and reassembled. This was the first renovation since 1984.
“Salvation Daily” became an important voice. It advocated democracy, unity, resistance, and progress. The paper provided insightful analysis of the war. It reported truthfully on the conflict. It echoed the people’s anti-Japanese sentiments. It greatly promoted national unity. The paper played a vital role in mobilizing the population.
Despite facing scrutiny from Kuomintang reactionaries, the paper persevered. It moved from Shanghai to Guangzhou. It finally arrived in Guilin. Though facing constant threats, its progressive influence remained strong. Its courageous struggle against reactionary forces is remembered. It has an enduring place in modern cultural history.
Today, the \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740 stands as a monument. It represents the spirit of cultural resistance. It serves as an important educational base. It highlights the theme of fighting war through culture. The Guilin Municipal Committee and Government have implemented a strategy. This strategy seeks to explore Guilin’s cultural strengths. It also aims to highlight the value of Guilin culture. The \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740 has been restored. It presents a new face to the world.
As you stand before the \u6551\u4ea1\u65e5\u62a5\u793e\u65e7\u5740, remember its legacy. It embodies resilience, intellectual courage, and the power of words. It reminds us of a time when culture was a weapon. It fought for national salvation.