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Why is Mao Zedong still such a polarizing figure in Chinese politics and society today?

Less Northridge

Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People's Republic of China, is undoubtedly one of the most polarizing figures in Chinese politics and society today. Despite his death in 1976, his legacy still dominates Chinese politics and continues to influence the country's social and economic policies.

One of the reasons for Mao's polarizing legacy is his role in China's modern history. Mao led the Chinese Communist Party to victory over the Nationalist Party in 1949, which led to the establishment of the People's Republic of China. However, his rule also led to political purges, mass re-education campaigns, and the Cultural Revolution, which caused widespread destruction and suffering.

Many Chinese people still have vivid memories of the Cultural Revolution, in which Mao mobilized young people to destroy ancient temples, burn books, and attack intellectuals. Mao's policies resulted in the deaths of millions of people, including intellectuals, party officials, and ordinary citizens who he deemed as "counter-revolutionaries." These events left a deep scar on Chinese society and continue to influence the way many Chinese view Mao's legacy.

On the other hand, Mao's supporters argue that he played a decisive role in China's modernization. They claim that Mao transformed China from an impoverished country into a superpower that could stand up to Western imperialism. They also argue that Mao's policies gave Chinese people a sense of pride in their country and a strong sense of national identity.

Mao's supporters also point out that Mao's policies helped to eradicate extreme poverty and improve the status of women in China. Mao's government introduced many social welfare policies, including health care, education, and housing for the poor. These policies allowed poor Chinese people to access basic necessities that were previously out of reach.

Furthermore, Mao's supporters argue that China's economic success owes much to Mao's policies. They contend that Mao laid the groundwork for China's current economic boom by investing in infrastructure projects and promoting industrialization.

In my opinion, Mao's legacy is a complex one that cannot be reduced to simple black and white arguments. Mao's rule brought both positive and negative changes to China, and his legacy continues to influence the country's political and social discourse. Ultimately, it is up to the Chinese people to decide how they view Mao's legacy and how to move forward.