Between Great Leaders: Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping

Author: Yu Boliu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: In March 1973, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, following an instruction from Mao Zedong, decided to restore Deng Xiaoping's Party life and his position as Vice Premier of the State Council. In December, Mao Zedong proposed that Deng Xiaoping assume the position of Politburo Member and participate in the work of the Central Military Commission, serving as Chief of the General Staff. "I think Deng Xiaoping is quite fair-minded. He is like me—not without flaws, but fair-minded. He is quite talented and good at getting things done"—Mao Zedong, 1956 "You, however, make some people a bit afraid. I’d like to give you two phrases: gentleness hidden in firmness, needle hidden in cotton"—Mao Zedong, 1973 "Comrade Mao Zedong’s great achievements in the long-term revolutionary struggle are forever unforgettable. Without Chairman Mao, there would be no New China. This is in no way an exaggeration"—Deng Xiaoping, 1978
Over the course of 50 years of interaction, they formed both deep friendships and grievances; they shared both extraordinary acts of greatness and moments that left people sigh in regret. This book uses rich and vivid historical materials to illuminate the depths of history with calm, objective, and flowing prose, rationally exploring the mysteries within. Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, since meeting at the August 7th Conference in Hankou in August 1927, have nearly 50 years of storms. They shared hardship and closeness, filled with deep friendship; yet they also had disagreements, with periods of closeness and distance, marked by both grievances and affection. It can be said that their bond was as steadfast as iron horses, with long-standing.
Against the backdrop of the tumultuous modern history of China, this book uses the precious moments or fragments of the interactions between Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping as material to comprehensively, systematically, accurately, and vividly narrate the deep comradeship and battlefield camaraderie they forged during their long years of revolution and construction. It also objectively records their estrangement during the Cultural Revolution and showcases their unique charm, temperament, courage, and talent.