Mao Zedong remains one of the most influential figures in Chinese history, symbolizing national revival, ideological transformation, and cultural identity. Despite controversies surrounding his leadership, Mao’s role in ending foreign domination, shaping modern China, and inspiring generations ensures his enduring presence in Chinese society and political symbolism, including his iconic portrait at Tiananmen Square.
“Mao Zedong shaped not only the destiny of modern China but also the identity of its people and ideology.”
Mao Zedong Was a National Hero.
When will the portrait of Mao Zedong be taken down from the Tiananmen Rostrum? It will never happen!
Why?
First, Mao Zedong was a national hero. After 1840 the Chinese nation suffered from the disaster and humiliation of national subjugation and genocide. It was under his leadership that the Communist Party of China ( C.P.C ) and the Chinese people saved the nation from disaster and humiliation. He belongs not only to the CPC, but also to the Chinese nation as a whole.
Second, Mao Zedong was a great thinker. His thoughts, especially those of “serving the people” and “seeking truth from facts” are rules for our everyday living. They are useful and eternal.
Third, Mao Zedong was a gifted scholar. The Chinese respect talent. His literary talent, including his bold and powerful poems and elegant handwriting, is admired by the Chinese people.
The people will not negate or forget him for his mistakes during the “cultural revolution (1966-1976)” in his later years for the three above-mentioned reasons. Instead, people’s affection for him will grow over time.
You will know I’m right if you ask ordinary Chinese People.
All countries have their national heroes, who are worshiped for their outstanding contributions to the state and the people. The personality cult of Mao Zedong did once exist in China, from which we have drawn lessons. There is no denying that the Chinese people’s admiration for Mao today may have some association with the personality cult in those years, but to the majority of people, it is more in the nature of hero worship than personality cult.
FAQ
1. Why is Mao Zedong considered a national hero in China?
Mao is credited with unifying China, ending foreign domination, and establishing the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
2. Why is Mao Zedong’s portrait still displayed at Tiananmen Square?
His portrait symbolizes China’s revolutionary history and national identity, making its removal politically and culturally unlikely.
3. Did Mao Zedong make mistakes during his leadership?
Yes, events like the Cultural Revolution caused major social and economic disruption, but his overall legacy remains complex.
4. How do modern Chinese people view Mao Zedong?
Many view him as a revolutionary hero, thinker, and cultural icon, while acknowledging historical controversies.
5. Is Mao Zedong still influential in Chinese ideology today?
Yes, Mao’s思想 (Mao Zedong Thought) remains a foundational ideology of the Chinese Communist Party.