To what extent can domestic policies during the Nanjing decade (1927–1937) be considered a failure?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that domestic policies during the Nanjing decade can be considered a failure. Candidates may refer to a range of economic problems including high inflation, unemployment and poor conditions in the countryside. Positive economic developments may include the establishment of infrastructure in the cities. Political weaknesses such as corruption, nepotism and the oppressive nature of regime may be discussed. Attempts to modernise/westernise Chinese society through the New Life Movement could be seen as both a failure and a success. While other relevant factors, for example Jiang Jieshi’s failure to respond to the Japanese threat, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the suggestion.