Final answer:
Historically, China has experienced periods of political unity and division. The Zhou dynasty saw its control wane, leading to the Warring States period, while the Qin and Han dynasties established significant control. During semi-colonization, there was a push for an independent Chinese Republic under Nationalist leadership.
Step-by-step explanation:
The political landscape of China during the period when it was only semi-colonized showcases a history of both division and unity. Before the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1911, China was politically united for nearly 525 years interspersed with long periods of division.
Notably, the Zhou dynasty saw its control diminish over time, leading to the Warring States period, a time of fragmentation and conflict between seven independent states. Yet, the Qin and Han dynasties represented periods of extended control, even expanding the empire to regions previously unadministered. The commandery-county system (junxian) was an instrumental administrative innovation during this era that endured in later dynasties and influenced other East Asian regimes.
During the time of European and Japanese colonial interests, Dr. Sun Yat-sen advocated for an independent Chinese Republic. Following his death, the Nationalists, led by Chiang Kai-shek, took control and worked to repel foreign influence, leading to the rise of the Nationalist government. It is essential to understand that China has maneuvered through cycles of consolidation and fragmentation throughout its history.