How did Japan's invasion of China during WWII affect the Chinese Nationalists?

Japan's invasion of China during World War II had a profound impact on the Chinese Nationalists, primarily leading to their significant weakening. The invasion brought about extensive destruction and suffering throughout China, exacerbating the already existing issues within the Nationalist government led by Chiang Kai-shek. As the Nationalists struggled to mount an effective military response to the Japanese aggression, their credibility and support among the Chinese population dwindled.

Moreover, the chaos of war allowed the Chinese Communist Party to gain ground and rally support from the population, presenting themselves as a viable alternative to the Nationalists. The prolonged conflict not only drained the Nationalists' resources but also shifted political dynamics in China, as they faced increased competition from the Communist forces. Thus, rather than unifying the country under Nationalist leadership, the invasion led to fragmentation and a decline in their authority, ultimately paving the way for the Communist victory in the subsequent Civil War after WWII.