Part 13/14:
By 1921, the era of high warlordism was well established—marked by continual conflict, political fragmentation, and foreign interference. Although some warlords engaged in cultural or social reforms, much of their rule was characterized by violence, corruption, and neglect.
Despite their differences, many warlords shared a common belief that military strength and personal loyalty were the keys to maintaining power. Their legacies would influence Chinese politics for decades, culminating eventually in attempts at reunification under the Kuomintang (Nationalists) and the rise of Robert Chiang Kai-shek.