Discuss the impact of Yuan Shikai’s actions on the rise of national identity in China.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the impact of Yuan Shikai’s actions on the rise of national identity in China. Candidates may discuss the ways in which the nature of Yuan’s leadership ended all hopes of democratic government. Yuan dismissed the Guomindang, closed the national assembly and tried to recreate a monarchy. Yuan’s style of leadership was corrupt, inept and brutal. Yuan had opponents killed and his government became more militaristic. In response to this oppressive regime the New Culture Movement was formed in 1915 which promoted modernization and nationalism. The New Culture Movement evolved into the May Fourth Movement from 1919, which saw mass patriotic demonstrations and boycotts on foreign goods and services. Yuan’s death led to a period of warlordism, which saw more factionalism in China but would also be the motivation for the creation of the First United Front and the Northern Expedition, which saw China finally united. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.