Thesis Statement
With the help of the Red Guards, General Mao Zedong abolished the Four Olds, helping to force the Revolutionists’ new way of life on the Chinese people and destroying a beautifully preserved and distinctive culture.
Overview of the Chinese Cultural Revolution
The Chinese Cultural Revolution began as a plan to reform China into a classless society. Mao eliminated foreign influence, sent children to the country side to work, and learn the way of life of the lower class. He also had personal possessions confiscated, people deported or sent to work, and cultural artifacts demolished in order to destroy China's old way of life. It ended as a confusing, economic and educational depression for China after Mao punished and excluded other authority figures (his personal rivals) in his own revolutionary party in order to stay in control. The destruction of cultural artifacts, foreign influence, and the spurning of other Chinese officials and upperclassmen also led to confusion over the true purpose of the Revolution.
Connection to the Theme
The topic of abolishing the Four Olds relates to this years topic of Revolution, Reaction, and Reform in history, in multiple ways. Revolution by definition means overthrow and replacement of a political system by the people governed. Chinese revolutionists, known as the Red Guards, completely reformed the Chinese way of life, not just by replacing the leadership with General Mao Zedong and his followers but by replacing the culture. The Chinese people reacted by racing to help destroy the Four Olds. After destroying the old culture of China, Mao Zedong and his followers forced their philosophy upon the Chinese people. The ancient Chinese culture, which had been beautifully preserved in years past, was destroyed and never fully returned to its former glory.
