Research on Key Aspects of the History of the Communist Party of China in Guangdong

Author: Chen Hongjun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: This work, which has been meticulously crafted over many years, is commendable for the following aspects:
Macro perspective, micro approach. The history of the Communist Party of Guangdong is an integral part of the entire history of the Communist Party of China, spanning a long period and encompassing a wealth of content. It is no easy task to conduct a panoramic or in-depth analysis of the local Party history of Guangdong. A Selective Inquiry into the History of Guangdong, in its research on the local Party history of Guangdong, does not aim to cover everything comprehensively but instead selects significant events and activities that are typical, pioneering, and crucial to the Party history of Guangdong. These include the founding and early activities of the Party organizations in Guangdong, the gestation of the Kuomintang-CCP cooperation, the rise of the Longmen peasant movement, the forerunner of the CCP's armed struggles, the Party's achievements at the Whampoa Military Academy, the Guangdong peasant and worker armed uprisings and the creation of revolutionary bases, the opening of the rear battlefields in South China, the land reform that created a new start, and the exploration and practice in Guangdong that led to innovations in Party theory, and so on.
Unafraid of difficulties, daring to express personal views. Innovation in theoretical research is not easy, and making breakthroughs in CCP history research is even harder. Only by expanding into new research areas and daring to tackle difficult and even sensitive issues can one achieve meaningful progress. A Selective Inquiry into the History of Guangdong does not shy away from the ambiguities, challenges, or even sensitive topics in the study of Guangdong's Party history. Instead, it dares to address them and propose its own perspectives. For example, the land reform in Guangdong in the early years of the PRC has been a subject of much debate among scholars. Based on extensive primary sources, the author dedicates over one hundred thousand words to discussing this issue, both realistically acknowledging the successful exploration and practice of the land reform in Guangdong and pointing out the "Left-leaning" tendencies in its later stages, such as acting too hastily and infringing on the interests of overseas Chinese and democratic. Through the author's careful research, the right and wrong aspects of the land reform in Guangdong have been largely clarified, restoring history to its true nature.
Combining historical analysis with practical relevance. Historical research must be grounded in historical materials before scientific conclusions can be drawn. The author of this book has consulted a vast number of relevant archives and historical documents, acquiring many valuable sources, ensuring that arguments are based on evidence and adhering to the methods and norms of historical research. This truly demonstrates the use of historical methods to study the CCP's history. At the same time, the author does not simply present history or construct historical facts but instead focuses on elevating new theories and drawing new conclusions through the lens of history, combining historical research with contemporary reflection. This reflects the characteristics of CCP history research. For instance, discussions such as how to govern for the people by addressing the "three rural issues," how the advanced nature of CCP members is reflected in Ye Jianying's performance at critical historical moments, and the valuable lessons from the Party history of Guangdong, all blend historical narrative with analysis, showcasing the theoretical depth and dialectical thinking of the book. The theoretical reflections presented are both persuasive and highly relevant to the present.
The book also provides introductions to renowned figures in Guangdong's Party history, such as Tan Pingshan, Ruan Xiaoxian, Yang Yin, Ye Jianying, Zhou Enlai, Shi Bilan, and Zhang Yan, highlighting the spirit, character, and integrity of the Communist Party members of Guangdong. These accounts offer invaluable insights for current Party education and civic education.