Chiang Kai-shek was a Chinese political and military leader who served as the leader of the Republic of China between 1928 and 1975. He was a major figure in the Chinese Civil War, leading the Nationalist forces against the Communist Party of China. He is also known for his role in the Second Sino-Japanese War, where he led the Chinese forces against the Japanese Empire. Chiang Kai-shek is often referred to by his courtesy name, Chiang Chung-cheng.