Correct me if I am wrong but I believe it was by building up their military forces, they increased industrial production and lowered unemployment. It was only a temporary success.
They border the Great Lakes,witch provide ocean access
Being a Stateless Nation means you don't have a unified government to define your nation as a state. That means there is no unity in that nation, which can cause several conflicts in the area, of factions wanting to reach power.
Also, laws can be complicated to be established and enforced, as well as public policies to help people in need.
Chinese CULTURE dominated East Asia
**and hold on**