In November 1934, the Battle of the Xiangjiang River took place. About 86,000 members of the Central Red Army participated in the battle. Only about 30,000 remained. This was one of the most brutal battles of the Long March, but the Red Army broke through the blockade of the Kuomintang forces and continued its westward advance. This battle ultimately paved the way for the Zunyi Conference and became an important turning point in the Long March.