This study examines the dissolution of China's dynastic order in the face of corruption, mismanagement and conflicts with powerful western nations; the interactions between the Nationalist government of the Republic of China and the Chinese Communist Party and the Soviet Communist International, and the emergence of the modern Chinese military.

The Dictionary of Contemporary Chinese Military History explains the military history, culture and traditions of Chinese Communist Red Army from its beginnings through the split with the Nationalist (Republic of China) Army and government, the Nationalist campaigns to wipe out the Red Army, the war against Japan and the Chinese civil war. The book provides a reference that discusses the major events, people, and issues involving the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and its early history with the Communist International, Japan and the Soviet Union. Wortzel explains contemporary Chinese military history, tactics and culture and provides the context of how China's 19th century clashes with the West and Japan affect current military affairs. , Wortzel illustrates how the imposition of unequal treaties by foreign powers conditioned China's 21st century defense policies. He explains the frictions in the Chinese military leadership and how disagreements over policies led to the Cultural Revolution and leadership purges.

It draws on primary sources from the People's Liberation Army and the Chinese Communist Party as well as English language secondary historical and biographical sources.