Chen Geng

Chen Geng (Chinese: 陳賡; pinyin: Chén Gēng; February 27, 1903 – March 16, 1961) was a notable Chinese Communist military leader and one of the ten grand generals of the People’s Liberation Army. His life and career are marked by significant contributions to the Communist revolution in China and military campaigns against both Japanese invaders and the Nationalist forces.

Early Life and Military Career

  • Early Background: Chen Geng was born in Hunan Province, China, the second of twelve siblings. His family was relatively affluent due to landownership.
  • Military Service: He initially joined a warlord’s army but found it disillusioning and left to work at the Hunan Railway Bureau. It was during this time that he met Mao Zedong, which would alter the course of his life.
  • Communist Party and Military Education: Chen joined the Communist Party of China in 1922 and enrolled in the Whampoa Military Academy in 1924. He became known as one of the top students alongside figures like Jiang Xianyun and He Zonghan.

Contributions and Achievements

  • Rescue of Chiang Kai-shek: During a critical battle against warlord forces, Chen saved Chiang Kai-shek’s life by forcibly removing him from a dangerous situation, earning Chiang’s deep gratitude and trust.
  • Communist Activities: After the Kuomintang broke with the Communists in 1927, Chen became a secret agent for the Communist Party in Shanghai, playing a crucial role in intelligence and underground operations.
  • Military Campaigns: Chen led the 386th Brigade during the Second Sino-Japanese War, achieving significant victories against the Japanese. His leadership and strategic acumen earned praise from military historians like Evans F. Carlson.
  • Chinese Civil War: He commanded various campaigns during the Chinese Civil War, including the Huaihai Campaign, which was pivotal in the Communist Party’s eventual victory.
  • International Engagements: Chen also played a role in Vietnam, assisting Võ Nguyên Giáp in operations against French forces along the border.

Later Years and Legacy

  • Post-War Contributions: After the Chinese Civil War, Chen founded the Military Engineering Academy in Harbin, focusing on technological advancements in military weaponry.
  • Personal Traits: Known for his straightforward and humorous personality, Chen was respected by his colleagues and superiors alike, including figures like Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai.
  • Death: He passed away from a heart attack in 1961 in Shanghai, leaving behind a legacy of military prowess and leadership.

Chen Geng’s life exemplifies dedication to both revolutionary ideals and military excellence, playing a crucial role in shaping modern Chinese history through his leadership in military campaigns and technological advancements.