Li Lisan's Red Legend

Author: Li Sishen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: On November 18, 1899, Li Lisan was born in Yanganshi, the suburban area of Liling City, Hunan Province. His father, Li Changgui (styled Jingrong), was a local scholar and teacher. Li Changgui gave his son the childhood name "Fengsheng" because when Li Lisan was born, a large white flower bloomed on a species of foxtail grass (also known as iron tree) in their backyard. The foxtail grass is known for rarely blooming.
From a young age, his father had a relentless pursuit of truth and worked hard to find a path to save the nation. He bravely broke free from social constraints and, despite family opposition, boldly went abroad for study under the work-study program in France. Upon returning to China, he actively engaged in the revolution. In his twenties, he led the Anyuan Strike, initiated the nationwide "May Thirtieth Movement," and directed the masses in reclaiming the British concession in Hankou, becoming a renowned leader of the labor movement and one of the early leaders of our Party.
In his life, he experienced both exhilarating and glorious moments as well as periods of pain and depression. He had tasted the joy of success and also felt the regret of making mistakes. Through all the ups and downs, his life constituted a true "red legend."