The Development of Chinese Islam and the Patriotic Consciousness of Hui Muslims during the Republican Era (1912–1949) 

Author：The Hi-Storyteller Humanities and History Club (2024-2025) of Beijing No.2 Middle School International Division

Abstract  

The Republican era (1912–1949) marked a period of profound social transformation in China, during which the patriotic consciousness of Hui Muslims underwent a historic transition from awakening to active practice. Drawing on historical documents and scholarly research, this paper explores the development of Chinese Islam and the evolution of Hui Muslims’ national identity and ethnic solidarity during this period, focusing on education, cultural initiatives, scriptural studies, contributions to the Anti-Japanese War, and international engagement. The study reveals that Hui Muslims not only advanced religious reforms domestically but also actively participated in the war effort, strengthened ethnic cohesion, and enhanced their global influence through cross-cultural exchanges. Their actions embodied the principle of “nation first,” making unique contributions to China’s modernization.  

I. Historical Background of Chinese Islam’s Development  

Following the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912, Sun Yat-sen advocated the “Five Races Under One Union” ideal, promoting equality among the Han, Manchu, Mongol, Hui, and Tibetan peoples. However, entrenched Qing-era social hierarchies perpetuated discrimination against Hui communities, particularly in political and economic spheres. In response, Hui intellectuals recognized that religious faith alone could not ensure progress; instead, they sought to integrate into national development through education, culture, and military engagement.  

Ma Fuxiang, a prominent Hui political figure and former governor of Gansu, championed modernization and aligned Hui interests with national goals. Under his influence, traditional Islamic schools (“jingtang jiaoyu”) coexisted with modern institutions in Gansu and Ningxia, enabling Hui Muslims to balance religious traditions with contemporary knowledge.  

The 1931 “September 18th Incident” (Japanese invasion of Manchuria) further galvanized Hui society. Publications like “Yuehua”(Lunar Brilliance) and “Muslim Youth” emerged as platforms for rallying Muslims to resist foreign aggression, blending cultural discourse with patriotic mobilization.  

II. Islamic Education in the Republican Era  

Chengda Normal School: A Beacon of Modern Education

Founded in 1925 by scholars Ma Songting and Tang Kesan in Jinan, which then moved to Beiping (Beijing) in 1929 ,  became a cornerstone of Islamic education.Founded in 1925 by scholars Ma Songting and Tang Kesan in Jinan, which then moved to Beiping (Beijing) in 1929 ,  became a cornerstone of Islamic education. Its curriculum combined modern subjects (Chinese, mathematics, science) with Arabic and Quranic studies, aiming to elevate Hui youth’s social standing through holistic education.  

Graduates like Fa Jingxuan(scholar) and Ma Jian (translator) later shaped Islamic intellectual circles. During the “Marco Polo Bridge Incident (1937)”, students volunteered at battlefronts or enlisted, embodying the link between national survival and individual duty.  

III. Cultural Revival and Publications

Hui Press and Intellectual Mobilization 

Publications such as “Yuehua” (1930) blended Islamic scholarship with political commentary. During the war, editorials like “Hui Youth Must Rise to the Challenge” urged Muslims to resist Japan through both combat and cultural defiance, inspiring many to join the resistance.  

IV. Contributions to the Anti-Japanese War 

1. Hui Military Leadership 

Hui generals like Ma Hongkui, Ma Bufang, and Ma Zhanao led forces in critical battles. Ma Zhanao’s Ningxia Hui Guerrilla Unit disrupted Japanese supply lines, while Bai Chongxi (a Hui strategist) trained troops and declared, “Islam commands us to defend our homeland. The nation’s fate rests on every citizen—we Hui will never be slaves!” 

2. Logistical and Economic Support  

Hui communities donated funds, medical supplies, and handmade provisions. Shanghai merchant Ma Yunting founded the “Hui Resistance Relief Association”, while women in Gansu and Ningxia sewed uniforms and rations for soldiers.  

V. International Engagement 

Sino-Arab Cultural Exchanges  

Hui students like Ma Jian studied in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, bridging Chinese resistance efforts with global Muslim solidarity. In 1941, Ma Jian’s Cairo speech exposed Japanese atrocities, securing Egyptian medical aid for China.  

Conclusion 

The Republican era saw Chinese Islam evolve through educational modernization, cultural revitalization, and global engagement. Hui Muslims demonstrated unwavering patriotism during national crises, reinforcing ethnic unity and leaving a legacy of multiethnic cooperation for contemporary China.  

References  

1. Ding Mingjun. (2014). “Debates over “Hui Ethnicity” and “Islam” in the Republican Era: Hui Self-Identity”. Journal of Beifang University of Nationalities.  

2. Puyi, Aisin-Gioro. (1911). “Abdication Edict of the Qing Emperor”.  

3. Additional historical and academic sources.