Why did the communists and the guomindang cooperate during the northern expedition in 1926 How did the expedition affect their long-term relationship?

Answer 1

The Communists and the Guomindang (KMT) cooperated during the Northern Expedition in 1926 to unify China and eliminate warlord control, which was seen as essential for national strength and modernization. This collaboration was initially successful, but the underlying ideological differences and power struggles soon resurfaced. The expedition ultimately deepened mistrust between the two groups, leading to the eventual split and violent conflict, particularly the purge of Communists by the KMT in 1927. This marked the beginning of a protracted civil war that would shape China's future.