Executive Summary
This paper analyzes how the 1937 Battle of Shanghai was perceived and fought through the lens of World War I experiences by Chinese combatants, German advisors, and foreign observers. It contrasts this with the Japanese perspective, which was more influenced by the Russo-Japanese War. The study highlights how past conflicts shape military doctrine and public understanding of new wars.
Why It Matters
This document offers critical insights into how historical military experiences and perceptions influence contemporary conflict, demonstrating the 'fighting the last war' phenomenon. Defense analysts should understand how past doctrines and cultural memory can shape strategic and tactical decisions in ongoing and future conflicts.
Key Takeaways
- Chinese forces and their German advisors applied World War I trench warfare and shock troop tactics in Shanghai, leading to strong defenses but also costly attrition.
- Japanese forces, less influenced by WWI, adopted an offense-dominant doctrine shaped by the Russo-Japanese War, which proved advantageous in the evolving nature of warfare.
- Foreign observers and combatants frequently interpreted the Battle of Shanghai through the prism of their WWI experiences, sometimes overlooking new aspects of the conflict.
Strategic Relevance
The paper illustrates the enduring challenge of adapting military doctrine and perceptions to new forms of warfare, rather than 'fighting the last war.' It underscores the importance of continuous strategic reassessment and avoiding historical biases in military planning and execution.