American opposition to Japan did not eliminate American willingness to bargain over China. Proposals available for negotiation included combining a Japanese-sponsored government with the existing Chinese government. They could also recognize Japanese control over parts of Chinese territory. A skillful Japanese government might therefore turn a temporary settlement into substantial political gains without winning the Pacific War. Such an agreement would reflect great-power interests and China's weak bargaining position.
Notable Point · 1:38:31-1:39:11
What US negotiators might concede in China
American negotiating proposals left room for bargains over Japanese political and territorial gains in China.