China and Korea: Historical Context and Political Dynamics

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture regarding China, Korea, Japan, and Myanmar, focusing on political history and contemporary issues.

People's Republic of China (PRC)

The official name of China established in 1949, marked by years of Communist Party rule.

Mao Zedong

Chairman of the CCP, and the undisputed leader of China from its founding until his death in 1976.

Great Leap Forward

A campaign by the CCP (1958-1962) aimed at rapid industrialization and collectivization, which led to a devastating famine.

Cultural Revolution

A sociopolitical movement initiated by Mao Zedong (1966-1976) aimed at reinforcing communism, resulting in widespread chaos.

Deng Xiaoping

Leader of China during the Reform Era (1978-1992) who initiated significant economic reforms.

CCP

Chinese Communist Party, the ruling party of China since 1949.

Economic Miracle

The rapid economic growth of China over the past few decades, establishing it as the world's second-largest economy.

GDP per capita

A measure of a country's economic output per person; approximately $12,700 nominal in China by 2022.

'Century of Humiliation'

A historical narrative by the CCP asserting they rescued China from foreign imperialism, specifically during the mid-19th to mid-20th century.

Taiwan Relations Act (TRA)

U.S. legislation that governs relations with Taiwan, maintaining non-official ties and commitments to Taiwan's defense.

BRICS

An acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, representing major emerging economies.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Area created by the armistice that ended the Korean War, serving as a buffer between North and South Korea.

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)

The dominant political party in Japan, governing almost uninterrupted since 1955.

Self-Defense Forces (SDF)

Japan's military organization, justified as non-offensive under the constitution post World War II.

ASEAN

Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a regional intergovernmental organization promoting cooperation among Southeast Asian countries.

Rohingya Crisis

The persecution and statelessness of the Rohingya people in Myanmar, resulting from the 1982 Citizenship Law.

Tatmadaw

Myanmar's military, which has played a dominant role in the country’s politics and governance.

Myanmar's 2008 Constitution

Legislation that entrenched military power in Myanmar and made genuine civilian control difficult.