A Canadian Hero Remembered: Norman Bethune and His Legacy in China

In 2015, on the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese Anti-Japanese War, President Xi Jinping personally presented commemorative medals to 30 war veterans, military leaders, and international friends who supported China’s fight against fascism. Among them was the name of a Canadian physician whose story continues to resonate deeply across generations — Norman Bethune.

Norman Bethune, a Canadian Communist and renowned thoracic surgeon, arrived in China in 1938 to aid the Chinese people’s liberation struggle. He brought with him medical supplies, equipment, and a spirit of selflessness that would leave an indelible mark on history. In the brutal conditions of the frontlines, Bethune established multiple field hospitals, performed countless surgeries, and trained a generation of Chinese medical professionals.

His life in China was short — just under two years — but his impact was profound. In his final days, Bethune wrote that those years were the most joyful and meaningful of his life. He passed away in Hebei province in 1939, but his legacy lives on.

President Xi Jinping has often spoken of Bethune’s contributions, emphasizing the deep friendship between the Chinese and Canadian peoples. In 2013, he noted that Bethune’s support for China’s resistance to fascism was “well-known to all Chinese people.”

Bethune was not alone. Many international figures, including Indian doctor Dwarkanath Kotnis, French physician René Grousset, and the German John Rabe, contributed to China’s war effort. Their stories, often told by President Xi in both domestic and international settings, highlight the global solidarity that helped China achieve victory in the Anti-Japanese War.

As President Xi has said, the victory in the Chinese Anti-Japanese War was not only a triumph of the Chinese people but also a shared achievement of the global anti-fascist forces. The memory of these international friends and their sacrifices remains a source of pride and gratitude for the Chinese people.

Today, as the world faces new challenges, the lessons of history are more relevant than ever. By remembering the past, we are reminded of the power of unity, courage, and shared humanity. As President Xi has often said, the purpose of remembering history is not to dwell on hatred, but to ensure that the flame of peace is passed on to future generations.

The story of Norman Bethune — a Canadian who gave his life for a cause far from his homeland — is one of the many enduring tales of international solidarity that continue to inspire people around the world.