Cultural revolution

Why did Mao implement the Cultural Revolution?

Mao's influence declined after the failed Great Leap Forward. He feared his legacy would fade like Stalin’s under de-Stalinization and sought to secure his position, eliminate opposition, and solidify ideological dominance.

Who were the Red Guards?

Mostly young students loyal to Mao, inspired by propaganda like his Yangtze swim. They enforced Mao's ideology, targeted "enemies," destroyed cultural sites, and carried the Little Red Book as a loyalty symbol.

What actions did the Red Guards take?

• Violently targeted "enemies" of Maoism.

• Humiliated, tortured, and murdered accused individuals.

• Destroyed cultural sites and renamed streets/buildings.

• Spread Mao's sayings and carried the Little Red Book.

What were the Four Olds?

• Old Culture

• Old Ideology

• Old Customs

• Old Traditions

  Mao and the Red Guards aimed to eliminate these to build a Maoist society free from historical influences.

What were the results of the Cultural Revolution?

• Massive chaos and destruction; ~1 million deaths.

• Scarred Chinese society and future generations.

• Strengthened Mao’s cult of personality.

• Though condemned in 1981, Mao’s legacy remained ingrained in Chinese communism.