Spirit of Hunan people

Author: Liu Jian'an
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-12-01
Features: The nature of Hunan people is resolute and conservative, fiercely clinging to tradition when they are, and equally eager to embrace new ideas when they are. They are responsible in handling matters. The saying of Zeng Guofan, "fortify the strong camp and fight the decisive battle," truly embodies the virtue of Hunan people. However, some aspects of this description may be somewhat exaggerated. Their stubbornness is something that cannot be ignored. What is the spirit of Hunan people? "If the Chinese nation is to perish, it can only be if all Hunan people die." Regardless of Yang Du's personal character, his words cannot be dismissed. This fighting spirit of Hunan people is not empty talk by Yang Du; it is indeed proven by history. Two hundred and fifty years ago, Mr. Wang Shanshan was a scholar who endured tremendous hardships! Decades ago, scholars like Zeng Guofan and Luo Zennan were bookish figures who "fortified the strong camp and fought decisive battles"! Huang Keqiang, despite all the difficulties, led a division of Hunan troops to defend against the Qing army's massive forces in Hanyang; Cai E, despite being ill, personally led his two thousand under-equipped Yunnan troops to fight a desperate battle against Yuan's army of one hundred thousand. They were such resilient soldiers! In short, if Hunan changes, China will follow. To serve the nation and repay the people, to defend against foreign invaders and unite as a group, is there any practical value in the world that is greater than this? This is why I am not afraid of the trouble, to sincerely share with my fellow countrymen.