The Three-anti and Five-anti Campaigns in 1951 were two of the most significant political movements initiated by China’s ruling Communist Party during the mid-20th century. The campaigns had a wide-ranging impact on both government and society, influencing changes in politics, economics, social life, and culture. Over the following decades, their influence continued to shape China’s development.
The Three-anti Campaign was launched in December 1951 and included measures to crack down on corruption, waste, and bureaucracy. The goals of the campaign were to promote economic efficiency, reduce public spending, and eliminate bureaucratic extravagance. To this end, the government reduced the number of government posts, eliminated certain expenses, and tightened regulations related to official vehicles, entertainment, and gift-giving. As part of the campaign, cadres were also required to disclose their assets and income and make financial statements available to the public.
The Five-anti Campaign, launched in January 1952, aimed to combat tax evasion, bribery, theft of state assets, fraud, and other economic crimes. It included a series of laws and measures designed to combat these activities. These included the establishment of specialized anti-corruption bureaus in each province and the passage of laws that criminalized a range of economic activities. The campaign also set up a system for reporting suspect behavior and increased the penalties for those found guilty of committing offenses. Furthermore, the government initiated an investigation into the banks, leading to the closure of several.
In terms of politics, the Three-anti and Five-anti Campaigns had a significant effect on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). By cracking down on corruption, waste, and economic crime, the CCP was able to extend its control over the economy and strengthen its grip over the country. This allowed the CCP to establish its power base and consolidate its rule. Furthermore, the campaigns provided a platform for the CCP to propagate its ideology and promote its agenda.
At the same time, the Campaigns had a dramatic effect on society. The implementation of the campaigns saw the growth of state-run enterprises and the expansion of the role of the state in the economy. This led to a significant increase in government control over economic activity and the redistribution of resources. In addition, the elimination of certain tax exemptions, along with the introduction of harsher punishments for economic crimes, led to a more equitable society.
The campaigns also changed the nature of social life. With the growth of state-run enterprises and government control over the economy, people became increasingly reliant on the state for employment, goods, and services. A new social order emerged where privilege and influence were determined by loyalty to the party. As such, the Three-anti and Five-anti Campaigns had a profound impact on social life, creating a system of patronage and creating an atmosphere of conformity.
On a cultural level, the Campaigns helped to promote the CCP’s vision of a modern and unified China. The campaigns were used to promote certain values, such as hard work and thrift, which were seen as essential for the success of the nation. At the same time, they encouraged people to embrace a more uniform way of life and discouraged the expression of dissenting opinions.
In the decades following the Three-anti and Five-anti Campaigns, their influence continued to define China’s development. The CCP’s control of the economy and its prominence in society grew, transforming China into one of the world’s most powerful nations. The campaigns also helped to create a sense of national identity and pride, which has been key to the country’s development. As such, the Three-anti and Five-anti Campaigns had a profound impact on China’s policies, politics, and society, and their influence continues to be felt today.