Chalmers Johnson and Peasant Nationalism: the Chinese revolution, social science, and base area studies.

The article explores the academic significance and impact of the book "Peasant Nationalism and Communist Power," by Chalmers Johnson, on the field of contemporary China studies. The author reflects on the nationalistic aspects of the Chinese Communist Party in mobilizing popular support during the Sino-Japanese War of 1937-1945. Emphasis is given to how Johnson conceived of the Chinese nature of communism in China and the development of peasant nationalism. Other topics include programs for social justice, communism as a foreign import, and the withdrawal of the Nationalist Party.