Chairman Mao Zedong (December 26, 1893 – September 9, 1976) is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in 20th century Chinese history. Mao’s leadership during the Chinese Communist Revolution—which began in 1949 and lasted until his death in 1976—had a profound effect on China, leading to the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and ushering in a period of significant economic and social reform and growth. His influence is still felt today in China, where his image and philosophies remain important and widely respected figures.
Mao’s early life
Mao was born in Hunan province, an area situated in southeastern China. He was born into a poor peasant family, but had an ambitious nature and was eager to learn. At the age of 13 he was sent to a local school, where he developed an affinity for literature. While at school Mao also read widely, particularly works by Western authors like Charles Darwin, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. These readings helped to shape his later political and philosophical outlook.
Mao was also raised Confucianism, a traditional Chinese philosophy that emphasizes respect for elders and responsibility towards the family. This worldview positioned him at odds with the more liberal and progressive ideas of the early 20th century, which the young Mao embraced.
Political views
Before joining the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1921, Mao had already begun to develop a Marxist-Leninist ideology. Mao argued for the need for a revolution that could bring about sweeping social and economic changes in China. He was also heavily influenced by the October Revolution in Russia, which led to the formation of the Soviet Union in 1922.
Mao’s view of the political system differed from other CCP leaders. He felt that the Chinese people should take control of their own destiny and oppose foreign intervention, be it from capitalist or communist forces. He believed that a strong proletariat with a united front of the countryside and urban areas would be the ultimate victors in a class struggle.
The Chinese Civil War
In 1927, Mao and the CCP launched a campaign against the ruling Nationalist Party (KMT). The result was the Chinese Civil War, which lasted throughout much of the 1930s and 40s. Mao’s strategy was to emphasize guerrilla warfare and popular uprisings in order to slowly erode the Nationalist’s strength. Mao and the CCP forces ultimately emerged victorious in 1949, paving the way for the establishment of the PRC.
Mao’s leadership
Mao was installed as chairman of the newly formed government and set about transforming China into a socialist state. He quickly moved to nationalize key industries and redistribute land to the peasants. He also began a series of campaigns aimed at improving public education and healthcare, as well as purging opponents of the CCP within China.
Mao’s most significant contribution was the Great Leap Forward (1958-1962). This bold economic program sought to rapidly industrialize the country by relying on collectivization initiatives, as well as utilizing small-scale rural cooperatives to promote production. This period of rapid growth came at a cost however, as millions of people starved to death due to the Great Famine, a period of severe food shortages caused by weather-related disasters, an inadequate distribution system and Mao’s ambitious plans.
Foreign Policy
Mao fostered a strong sense of nationalism and a brand of Chinese communism distinct from the Soviet Union’s. He also supported a policy of non-interference in other countries’ affairs, rejecting the idea of spreading communism around the world. He instead championed the policy of Third World solidarity, which was aimed at creating an anti-imperialist, anti-colonial alliance among developing countries.
Mao’s foreign policy also laid the groundwork for the eventual normalization of relations between China and the United States in 1972. He welcomed President Richard Nixon on his historic visit to Beijing and signed the Shanghai Communique, a document outlining a framework for improved relations between the two countries.
Legacy
Mao Zedong’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. He is renowned for having played a major role in the unification of China and for ending centuries of foreign domination. He also successfully guided China through challenging times of famine and revolution, providing stability and modernizing the country.
At the same time, Mao’s policies resulted in the deaths of millions of his own people, with the Great Famine being the most devastating example. His purges, particularly during the Cultural Revolution, destroyed the lives of countless intellectuals and dissidents.
Nevertheless, Mao remains a figure of immense significance and controversy in China. For many, he is seen as a great leader who helped to create a new and powerful nation. Others view him with anger, pointing to the suffering caused by his policies. Whatever the opinion, it is impossible to deny Chairman Mao’s tremendous impact on Chinese history.