What changes were made to Nanjing during the Nationalist government period?

During the Nationalist government period, particularly after Chiang Kai-shek established Nanjing as the capital of a united China in 1928, the city underwent significant physical and infrastructural modernization.

Key changes included:

• Urban Development: The city was transformed with the construction of modern boulevards and new government buildings.1
• Infrastructure: To improve connectivity and modernization, the government oversaw the building of new railroad stations and airfields.1
• Architectural Landmarks: The city saw the erection of the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a landmark project designed by Lü Yanzhi. This structure was significant for being one of the first major modern constructions designed entirely by a Chinese architect, drawing inspiration from traditional Ming and Qing dynasty imperial tomb styles.12
• Economic and Resource Development: Beyond physical construction, the Nationalist government made progress in developing the city's industries, communications, and natural resources.1

These developmental efforts were intended to establish Nanjing as a modern capital, though much of this progress was interrupted by the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937.1