The Chinese Civil War was a conflict fought between two main groups: the Nationalists (Kuomintang) and the Communists. It began in 1927 and lasted until 1949, with both sides vying for control of China. The Nationalists, led by Chiang Kai-shek, aimed to establish a unified government, while the Communists, under Mao Zedong, sought to create a socialist state. After years of fighting, the Communists emerged victorious in 1949, leading to the establishment of the People's Republic of China. The Nationalists retreated to Taiwan, where they continued to claim legitimacy over all of China. This division has had lasting effects on Chinese politics and society.