Random Thoughts on Politics

Author: Wu Mengqing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: During the Cultural Revolution, Premier Zhou faced considerable difficulties. He had to handle numerous while constantly being on guard against the plots and disruptions of the "Gang of Four." It was truly a sleepless night and a tasteless day for him. Many loyal revolutionaries, including senior leaders, were basically purged, which caused him great distress. Whenever an opportunity arose, he would always use his wit to "liberate" one or two people, or even a group of them. The "liberation" of Wu Zhongchao, the Director of the Palace Museum, was particularly dramatic. Wu Zhongchao was an experienced veteran of the revolution and had also worked in East China during the early days of liberation. During the Cultural Revolution, he served as the Director of the Palace Museum and could be considered an expert within the Party. Of course, the "Gang of Four" would not let him go. After labeling him as a "scoundrel" and subjecting him to public criticism, they assigned him menial tasks. When Premier Zhou saw this situation, his heart ached. Finally, an opportunity came. Just then, international VIPs were scheduled to visit the Palace Museum, with the level equivalent to that of the Premier. The head of the Museum's Revolutionary Committee came to seek instructions on reception and commentary work. Premier Zhou emphasized that the reception and commentary must be grand and solemn, with no room for mistakes. He also requested that high-caliber personnel be assigned for the task and added, "Let Wu Zhongchao participate as well." The Committee members then asked, "How should Wu Zhongchao be introduced to the foreign guests? What title should we use?" Premier Zhou replied with just two words: "Director." With no formal procedures or documents, Wu Zhongchao was thus "liberated." P42-43