The World Turned Upside Down: A History of the Chinese Cultural Revolution

Yang Jisheng's The World Turned Upside Down is the definitive history of the Cultural Revolution, in withering and heartbreaking detail.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Swift Press

The Cultural Revolution, a pivotal period in the history of the People's Republic of China, reached its zenith and nadir during the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution (1966-1976). Initiated in response to the perceived threat of Soviet Union revisionism to the future of socialism, Mao Zedong mobilized the masses to combat what he deemed bourgeois forces within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This decade-long class struggle, on a massive scale, resulted in the devastation of traditional Chinese culture and the nation's economy.

In his groundbreaking and award-winning work, Tombstone, Yang Jisheng, an independent scholar based in mainland China, presents the only comprehensive history of the Cultural Revolution. This book makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the lasting influence of those tumultuous years.

The World Turned Upside Down meticulously examines every political incident, both major and minor, of those ten years. It provides a profound and withering scrutiny of the events that shaped that era. The English publication of this book arrives at a time when contemporary Chinese governance is once again leaning toward a highly centralized power structure and a revival of the Mao-style cult of personality.

The Cultural Revolution had a profound impact on China and the world. It marked a significant shift in the country's political landscape, leading to the establishment of a more centralized government and the suppression of dissent. The revolution also led to the destruction of many cultural artifacts and the loss of countless lives.

However, the legacy of the Cultural Revolution is complex and multifaceted. While it caused immense suffering and destruction, it also brought about significant social and political changes. The revolution led to the empowerment of marginalized groups, such as women and ethnic minorities, and paved the way for greater economic and social equality in China.

In conclusion, Yang Jisheng's The World Turned Upside Down is a definitive history of the Cultural Revolution. It provides a comprehensive and withering account of this pivotal period in Chinese history. The book sheds light on the events, personalities, and consequences of the revolution, and contributes to our understanding of its lasting influence. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary Chinese governance, it is essential to reflect on the lessons of the Cultural Revolution and work towards a more inclusive and democratic society.

Weight: 674g
Dimension: 131 x 198 x 59 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800750852