Patriots and Propaganda: Chinese Australians and the politics of loyalty, 1930s–1940s

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Bolin Hu

Patriots and Propaganda

Chinese Australians and the politics of loyalty, 1930s–1940s

Bolin Hu

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English

Sydney University Press
31 October 2025

History; History: specific events & topics; Social groups; Propaganda

Series: China and the West in the Modern World

In the turbulent years of China’s War of Resistance against Japan (1931–1945), a unique and complex narrative unfolded far from the battlefields – in Australia. Patriots and Propaganda: Chinese Australians and the politics of loyalty, 1930s–1940s delves into the intricate web of Chinese wartime propaganda efforts, revealing how the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) and Chinese Australian communities mobilised support for China’s struggle against Japanese aggression.

Patriots and Propaganda uncovers the multifaceted relationships between China, Australia, and the Chinese Australian diaspora, highlighting the political, racial and class dynamics that shaped these interactions.

Bolin Hu explores the pivotal role of Chinese-language newspapers and schools in preserving Chinese heritage and loyalty; the intense political rivalries within the Chinese Australian community; and the profound impact of memorial services and fundraising campaigns on fostering Chinese patriotism and community cohesion. Hu also brings to light the diverse contributions of various Chinese Australian groups – including leftists, women, and Australian-born Chinese – to China’s war effort, and the fierce propaganda battles between Chinese and Japanese authorities on Australian soil.

Patriots and Propaganda offers a nuanced exploration of the socio-political dynamics within the Chinese Australian community, while challenging the traditional narrative of distant allies, presenting new evidence and perspectives on the Sino-Australian relationship during a critical period in history.

By: Bolin Hu
Imprint: Sydney University Press
Country of Publication: Australia
Dimensions: Height: 210mm, Width: 148mm, Spine: 20mm
Weight: 469g
ISBN: 9781761540233
ISBN 10: 1761540238
Series: China and the West in the Modern World
Pages: 300
Publication Date: 31 October 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Introduction Chapter 1 Loyalty to Republican China Chapter 2 Long-distance political rivals and nationalism Chapter 3 Diasporic Chinese commemorations and patriotic mobilisation Chapter 4 Chinese patriotic fundraising campaigns Chapter 5 Reformation of fundraising and political landscapes Chapter 6 Sino-Japanese propaganda contest in Australia Chapter 7 Chinese wartime propaganda Conclusion Bibliography Index

Bolin Hu is a lecturer at Huaqiao University, with research interests focusing on the history of the Chinese diaspora in Australasia, as well as the history of Sino-Australian and Sino-New Zealand relations.