Summary

"The Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War II" by Iris Chang is a harrowing account of the atrocities committed by the Japanese army in Nanking, China, in 1937–1938. Chang meticulously documents the events, drawing on eyewitness testimonies, archival materials, and interviews to paint a vivid picture of the brutality and suffering endured by the Chinese population. The book explores the historical context leading up to the massacre, the key figures involved, and the motives behind the violence. It also delves into the international response to the events and the subsequent attempts to cover up and deny the atrocities.

The book is divided into three parts. Part I details the path to Nanking, describing the Japanese strategy, the key military leaders, and the fall of the city. It vividly portrays the race to Nanking, the command shift to Prince Asaka, and the order to "kill all captives." The narrative then shifts to the six weeks of terror, documenting the killing contests, torture, rapes, and the immense death toll. Chang exposes the savage conditions endured by the Chinese civilians and soldiers, highlighting the individual strength and courage of those who resisted and survived.

Part II examines what the world knew, focusing on the American journalists, newsreel men, and foreign intelligence. Chang discusses the Japanese damage control efforts and propaganda, as well as the fight back from the Safety Zone leaders. It provides a harrowing account of the occupation of Nanking, describing the destruction, looting, and the systematic subjugation of the Chinese population. The section also explores the Nanking War Crimes Trial and the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, shedding light on the complexities of seeking justice for the victims.

Finally, Part III delves into the fate of the survivors and the subsequent attempts to erase the event from world history. Chang discusses the textbook controversy, the academic cover-up, and the self-imposed censorship that has hindered open discussion of the massacre. It explores the debates on the Nanking Massacre, and the intimidation faced by those who seek to bring the truth to light. Ultimately, Chang emphasizes the importance of remembering the past to prevent such atrocities from happening again, and she implores Japan to acknowledge its responsibility for the crimes perpetrated at Nanking.