Abstract: By means of literature review and logical analysis, this paper explores the interrelationship between China’s National Games from 1910 to 2017and the construction of national identity from a historical perspective. The period from 1910 to 1948 is the forming stage of the National Games, which helps the Chinese people to form a right view towards modern sports. Regaining the hosting right of the National Games demonstrates Chinese people’s determination to win national independence, thus raising people’s awareness of Chinese national community. The period from 1959 to 1979 marks the early stage of the National Games development, during which the first four National Games were held. At this stage, China faced the challenge of the state sovereignty being recognized at home and abroad, the ritual ceremony and symbolic representation of the National games exhibit the Chinese people’s prospect to achieve state modernization, national prosperity, and happy life as soon as possible. During the period from 1983 to 2017, the National Games serves China’s Olympic Strategy under the background of globalization, and showcase China’s soft power through constant reforms, helping improve China’s international reputation and influence. Meanwhile, the National Games is not just an arena for sports elites, but moves towards a national gathering enjoyable for the whole nation. The political conditions and historical images in the different stages of the National Games evolution form a dynamic painting of the Chinese national “imagined community” from onset through growth to consolidation in modern and contemporary times.

Key words: National Games, national identity, national community, construction