Mao Zedong and the Rise of Communism in China

These flashcards cover key events, figures, and concepts related to Mao Zedong and the rise of communism in China.

What significant event marked the transition from the Chinese Empire to a Republic in 1912?

The military revolution that defeated the emperor and led to the establishment of the Republic of China.

What was the impact of Western powers on China before the establishment of the Republic?

Western powers forced China to sign unfair treaties, leading to loss of territory and national humiliation.

Who founded the Kuomintang and what was his vision for China?

Sun Yat-sen founded the Kuomintang and believed China should adopt Western political and military strategies.

What was the significance of the 'fourth of May movement' in 1919?

The movement protested against foreign influence and sparked strong nationalist sentiments in China.

How did Mao Zedong's early life influence his political philosophy?

Mao's experiences as a peasant shaped his belief that the revolution should be led by the agrarian population.

What was the ‘Great Leap Forward’ and what were its consequences?

A campaign aimed at rapidly industrializing China which resulted in a massive famine causing over 40 million deaths.

What role did the Academy of Whampoa play in the military of China?

It became a training center for future leaders of the nationalists and communist factions in China.

What characterized the relationship between the Chinese Communist Party and the Kuomintang?

Initially a strategic alliance against warlords, it deteriorated into civil war after Sun Yat-sen's death.

What was Chiang Kai-shek’s approach towards the Communists?

He launched extermination campaigns against the Chinese Communists after breaking the alliance.

How did the 'Long March' influence Mao Zedong's reputation?

It established Mao as a crucial leader as he successfully organized the retreat and survival of his forces.

What was the Cultural Revolution and what did it aim to achieve?

A socio-political movement led by Mao aimed at purging the Communist Party of his rivals and instilling revolutionary zeal.

What was the impact of Mao's policies on women's rights in China?

Mao's reforms aimed to eliminate gender inequality, granting women legal rights and encouraging them to work outside the home.

Describe the consequences of the 'Hundred Flowers Campaign'.

It began with calls for openness but led to the persecution of dissenters and reinforced Mao's suppressed dissent within the Party.

What was the nature of the Chinese government structure under Mao after 1949?

It was a uniparty state where the Communist Party controlled all aspects of governance, suppressing opposition.

How did Mao's ideology differ from orthodox Marxism?

Mao emphasized rural peasants as revolutionary leaders, challenging the idea that urban workers should lead the revolution.

What was the effect of the Sino-Japanese war on the Communist Party's image?

The Communist Party gained prestige as they were seen as more effective than the nationalists in resisting Japanese aggression.

What were 'Laogai' and their implications during Mao's regime?

They were labor camps for political dissidents that provided forced labor and were notorious for high mortality rates.

What were Mao's views on education and ideology during the Cultural Revolution?

Education aimed at communist ideology, erasing traditional thoughts and promoting loyalty to Mao.

How did Mao consolidate power during the rectification campaigns?

He strengthened his control by enforcing strict loyalty to his revolutionary ideals and eliminating dissent.

What was the nature of US-China relations during the Cold War under Mao?

Characterized by hostility and ideological conflict, culminating in military actions like the Korean War.