China Today: Tracing Its Historical Roots

by Nilantha Ilangamuwa

The transformation of Shenzhen, once a modest fishing village, into a vibrant modern metropolis, stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of innovation and determination inherent in the Chinese character. This journey from obscurity to prominence not only showcases the potential of socialism infused with China’s distinct attributes but also symbolizes hope, progress, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Shenzhen’s transformation began in the late 1970s when it was chosen as the experimental frontier for China’s economic reform and opening-up initiatives by Deng Xiaoping, a leader who prioritized results over ideology.

The Chinese government’s decision to blend free-market capitalism with socialism in this coastal village yielded astonishing results. Shenzhen’s success exemplifies the potential of a nation when it combines socialist principles with relentless innovation, an unwavering work ethic, and a resolute spirit, painting Shenzhen as a beacon of progress where vision, dedication, and socialism converge for a brighter future.

It is in this context that the annual celebration of the People’s Republic of China’s founding on October 1 prompts reflection on Mao Zedong, a monumental figure who played an unparalleled role in shaping China’s destiny. Mao, the revered founding father of the People’s Republic and the Chinese Communist Party, stands as a complex figure with a multifaceted legacy. His indomitable leadership led to the Communist triumph over the Nationalists in 1949, uniting a war-weary nation. His commitment to social justice was evident in policies such as land reform, gender equality, and investments in education and healthcare, which improved the lives of many. However, Mao’s legacy is marred by catastrophic events like the Great Leap Forward’s famine and the turmoil of the Cultural Revolution, resulting in human suffering, political purges, and societal upheaval.

After the tumultuous era of Mao Zedong, China witnessed significant progress under a succession of leaders, starting with Zhou Enlai and culminating in Xi Jinping’s current leadership. Zhou Enlai’s tenure marked the early post-Mao period, where he played a pivotal role in stabilizing the country and initiating economic reforms. However, it was under Deng Xiaoping’s guidance that China truly embarked on a path of rapid economic growth and modernization, attracting foreign investment and expanding trade relationships. This era set the stage for China’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse.

Li Xiannian’s presidency from 1983 to 1988 coincided with a pivotal period of economic reforms in China led by Deng Xiaoping. His leadership contributed to China’s rapid economic growth and modernization as the country attracted foreign investment and expanded trade relationships. However, concerns about corruption within the Chinese Communist Party persisted during his tenure, hindering broader social and political development. Subsequently, Yang Shangkun took office in the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, focusing on restoring stability and rebuilding international relations

Jiang Zemin’s leadership, extending from 1993 to 2003, witnessed further economic growth and China’s increased integration into the global economy. His role in China’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) contributed to its economic expansion. Similarly, Hu Jintao, who led from 2003 to 2013, continued China’s economic growth and development, addressing social inequalities and environmental concerns. Xi Jinping, the current leader, has sought to consolidate power and enhance China’s global influence. In essence, the progress of China after Mao reflects a complex interplay of economic development, political stability, human rights, and global engagement in shaping the country’s modern history.

China’s approach to poverty alleviation is truly noteworthy, successfully uplifting hundreds of millions of its citizens from poverty and making a substantial contribution to global poverty reduction. Key elements underpinning the campaign’s effectiveness include a targeted approach that addresses the diverse nature of poverty, substantial investments in infrastructure, diversification of economic activities in rural areas, the establishment of robust social safety nets, and innovative relocation programs for regions facing extreme poverty or environmental challenges. These multifaceted strategies have not only eradicated extreme poverty within China’s borders but have also left an enduring impact on global poverty reduction efforts, with over 850 million people rising above the poverty line since the late 1970s, as noted by the World Bank.

Parallel to its poverty alleviation campaign, China’s resolute anti-corruption drive, led by President Xi Jinping, has achieved substantial progress. This campaign spans all levels of government and the Communist Party, featuring high-profile investigations that send a clear message against corruption. Institutional reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability, the reinforcement of party discipline and integrity, and comprehensive public awareness efforts are key components of this drive.

The dual success of poverty alleviation and anti-corruption efforts has had a significant impact beyond China’s borders, elevating living standards, stability, and economic growth domestically while fostering a more transparent business environment that benefits both domestic and international investors. Challenges remain, including the need to sustain poverty alleviation gains and strike a balance between accountability and procedural fairness in anti-corruption efforts.

China is an integral component of human civilization. To truly comprehend China, it requires more than academic inquiry alone; it calls for a steadfast commitment to overcoming preconceived notions and liberating ourselves from the constraints of Western narratives. The essence of understanding this multifaceted nation lies in recognizing that China’s historical depth, cultural richness, and evolving global role defy facile categorizations. To approach China with an open mind is to embark on a quest for accuracy in assessing its actions, motivations, and impact, eschewing the perilous pitfalls of reductionist thinking that invariably lead to misunderstandings and grievous miscalculations.

In this complex landscape, Henry Kissinger emerges as an illuminating guide, spanning the chasm between historical context and contemporary international relations. His seminal work, “On China,” unearths the timeless threads of China’s foreign policy traditions, rooted in an ancient history that persists today. Kissinger’s resolute pragmatism and realpolitik approach serve as a clarion call to transcend ideological biases and engage with China in a spirit of constructive dialogue.

Kissinger’s involvement in history-making events, from President Nixon’s groundbreaking visit to China to the diplomacy of “ping pong,” underscores the transformative potential of unorthodox approaches in diplomacy. It elucidates how seemingly minor gestures can wield profound diplomatic implications. His insights on issues ranging from Taiwan and the One-China policy to the strategic dynamics of the Cold War, Deng Xiaoping’s economic reforms, and China’s ascendance as a global economic powerhouse offer invaluable perspectives. Moreover, Kissinger’s emphasis on managing sensitive issues, fostering engagement based on common interests, and resisting the imposition of Western values provides pragmatic guidance for steering the intricate waters of U.S.-China relations in an era where China’s ascent as a global power demands delicate navigation.

In this precarious epoch, where the specter of proxy wars looms large in the dismantling of the once-dominant unipolar world order, it becomes imperative to chart a path towards peace without plunging once more into the abyss of relentless conflict. From Vietnam to Iraq, the Asian continent has borne witness to the flames of insurgency and manifested wars, underscoring the urgent need for strategies of peaceful coexistence. The prospect of a war involving China, particularly one featuring major military powers, must not be taken lightly, for it threatens profound and far-reaching consequences. Such a conflict would usher global instability, untold loss of life, economic desolation, and enduring global reverberations.

Geopolitically, a conflict embroiling China could ignite broader regional confrontations, entangling nations like Russia, India, and Southeast Asian countries, amplifying global unrest and instability. Environmental devastation, marked by pollution, infrastructure ruin, and ecological devastation, would bear lasting scars on our planet’s health.

Furthermore, the foundations of the existing international order and its institutions would be eroded, imperiling diplomacy and cooperation on critical global issues like climate change, public health, and poverty eradication. In the words of Deng Xiaoping, “We should free our minds and imagine in a big way. We should escape from the fetters of ideological or political prejudices.” In this era of unprecedented complexity and volatility, embracing such wisdom is not merely prudent; it is the very essence of our survival.