Schools into Fields and Factories: Anarchists, the Guomindang, and the National Labor University in Shanghai, 1927-1932

Ming K. Chan and Arif Dirlik explore the transformative period in Shanghai between 1927 and 1932, delving into the interplay between anarchist thought, the Guomindang's influence, and the establishment of the National Labor University. Their research uncovers how educational institutions evolved into spaces for political activism and labor organization during a time of significant social change.

The authors illuminate the struggles faced by students and educators who sought to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in fields and factories. Through rich historical analysis, they highlight the challenges posed by contemporary political movements and the impacts of globalization on labor relations.

This work serves as a critical reflection on how the educational landscape was shaped by broader socio-political dynamics, revealing the intricate relationship between ideology, education, and labor rights in early 20th-century China. Readers are invited to consider the lasting legacy of this period on modern labor movements and educational reform.