The Chinese Cultural Revolution was a tumultuous period in China’s history, lasting from 1966 to 1976. It was a time of great political and social upheaval that saw radical reforms take place in the country and had long-lasting effects on Chinese society. The Cultural Revolution was initiated by Mao Zedong and his followers who saw it as a way to revive revolutionary spirit and rid the country of bourgeois influences.
The Cultural Revolution set out to do three main things – first, to destroy the “Four Olds” (old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas); second, to create a new Chinese culture and society; and third, to rebuild socialism by eliminating the capitalist elements.
The Chinese government promoted Mao’s vision of an ideal socialist society through propaganda campaigns, education, and economic reforms. The government organized mass campaigns such as the “Criticize the Old and Establish the New” campaign and the “Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution”. These campaigns targeted individuals and groups deemed counter-revolutionary and bourgeois, including intellectuals, religious and cultural figures, and anyone associated with traditional values.
The Cultural Revolution resulted in massive disruption to Chinese society, with many institutions and places of learning being closed down or demolished. Universities were closed and intellectuals persecuted. The Red Guards, a paramilitary force made up of students inspired by Mao Zedong, were encouraged to rid China of its old customs, culture, habits, and ideas. They often resorted to violence, vandalism, and terror.
The economy also suffered during the Cultural Revolution. Many factories, businesses, and farms were shut down and large numbers of people were sent to work in rural communes. This caused widespread famine, with millions of people reportedly dying of starvation during this period.
The Cultural Revolution also saw the rise of the cult of Mao Zedong. Mao’s propaganda was everywhere and he became the focus of national adoration. His works and words were put into textbooks and were used to shape public opinion. Mao was idolized as a god-like figure and people were encouraged to “follow the red sun of Mao Zedong Thought”.
The Cultural Revolution ended in 1976 with the death of Mao Zedong and the arrest of the leaders of the Gang of Four (which included Mao’s wife, Jiang Qing). Following Mao’s death, the Chinese government introduced a series of reforms aimed at reversing the damage done during the Cultural Revolution.
The Cultural Revolution had a profound effect on China’s economy, society and culture. Millions of people died or were sent to prison camps. Family relationships were broken, and identities and beliefs were changed forever. Despite the reform efforts of the 1980s, the legacy of the Cultural Revolution still lingers in China to this day.