Mao's China And Post-mao China: Revolution, Recovery And Rejuvenation

China has undergone two revolutions,a number of wars,endured communism and is now the fastest growing economy in the world. However,unemployment rates are spiraling,inequality is rife,and environmental degradation is threatening the success of the Chinese economy and society. Mao's China and Post-Mao China captures the dynamics,dynamism,and disasters of Chinese politics since 1949.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 420 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Europe Ltd

The history of modern China is a complex and turbulent tale that has seen the country undergo two revolutions, numerous wars, and a period of radical communism. Despite these challenges, China has emerged as the world's fastest-growing economy, with an increasingly sophisticated and expanding military. However, not all is going smoothly for Beijing. Unemployment rates are spiraling, inequality is rife, and official corruption at all levels remains an Achilles heel for the Chinese Communist Party. Worst of all, environmental degradation is at such a serious level that it threatens the success of the Chinese economy and the stability of Chinese society.

Against this scarcely believable backdrop, author Mao's China and Post-Mao China offers a comprehensive analysis of Chinese politics since the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. This advanced textbook identifies three key themes that have underpinned the post-revolutionary era: revolution, recovery, and rejuvenation. These themes reflect the country's efforts to rebuild and modernize its economy, society, and military after the devastating effects of the Cultural Revolution.

The book is divided into three parts, each exploring a different aspect of Chinese politics. The first part examines the political dynamics of the post-revolutionary era, including the rise and fall of various political figures, the emergence of the Communist Party, and the implementation of economic reforms. The second part focuses on the recovery of China's economy, including the introduction of market-oriented policies and the growth of the private sector. The third part examines the rejuvenation of China's society, including the promotion of social welfare programs, the development of cultural industries, and the efforts to address gender inequality and environmental degradation.

One of the book's key strengths is its ability to provide a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of Chinese politics. The author draws on a wide range of sources, including historical documents, academic research, and personal experiences, to provide a rich and detailed account of the country's political development. The book also offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing China today, including the country's growing influence in global politics, the tensions between economic development and environmental sustainability, and the ongoing struggle to promote social justice and political reform.

Despite its strengths, Mao's China and Post-Mao China is not without its criticisms. Some critics argue that the book is too focused on the political aspects of Chinese history and neglects the country's cultural and social development. Others argue that the book is too sympathetic to the Chinese Communist Party and fails to acknowledge the party's authoritarian tendencies and human rights abuses.

In conclusion, Mao's China and Post-Mao China is a valuable and comprehensive analysis of Chinese politics since 1949. The book offers valuable insights into the country's political development, economic recovery, and social rejuvenation, and provides a nuanced and comprehensive account of the challenges and opportunities facing China today. While the book is not without its criticisms, it is essential reading for anyone interested in the politics of modern China at the undergraduate and postgraduate level.

ISBN-13: 9781800612754