Club Member: A Youthful Story from Peking University

Author: Shen Qianfan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-01
Features: Chinese cultural tradition places great hope in "supporting benevolence through friendship," where two or three companions unite based on shared interests, dividing their interests with kindred spirits, showing their aspirations through personal practice—this is what constitutes a club. Since modern times, clubs have become an important organizational form for those with aspirations to gather strength. In 1904, to save the nation from peril, students of Peking University founded the Anti-Japanese Iron and Blood Club, marking the beginning of student club history at Peking University and establishing from its inception a foundation of passion and responsibility. During the May Fourth Movement, organizations such as the Youth China Society, the Xinchao Club, and the Marxist Study Society explored new ideas and spread new culture, playing a significant role in nurturing the spirit of "patriotism, progress, democracy, and science."
Over a century, in student clubs, there has been the fervor of pursuing advanced ideas, the depth of exploring modern academia, the individuality of artistic expression, and the determination of sports competition—all of which have converged to become part of Peking University's spiritual charm and have cultivated generations of "Peking University people," serving as an organizational foundation for the transmission of the university's spirit. At the same time, it is precisely this spiritual nourishment that has allowed Peking University's student clubs to thrive and flourish ever more.
In 1904, the Anti-Japanese Iron and Blood Club of Peking University was established, becoming the earliest recorded student club organization in the history of Peking University. Subsequently, clubs such as the Jinde Club, which advocated for a new way of life, the Xinchao Club, which promoted new culture, and the Marxist Study Society all left a profound mark on Chinese history. Since the founding of New China, especially after the reform and opening-up, Peking University's clubs have flourished. To date, over 130 student clubs are active at Peking University, with organizations like the Mount Eagle Club, the Love Society, and the Bicycle Association becoming influential student clubs nationwide. The "Battle of the Hundred Clubs" has become a window into campus culture at Peking University.
This book, with its rich illustrations and texts, genuinely records the footsteps of Peking University club members over the past century, showcasing from one perspective the vibrant spirit of young Peking University students active in clubs. Here, there is joy in growth and perseverance, as well as the celebration of youth and dreams. Through these vivid stories, we see the enduring vitality of the Peking University spirit.