The Prince cover image

The Prince

Redder than red

Sep 28, 2022
Nan Yang, daughter of Mao Zedong’s secretary, offers a rare glimpse into life among China's elite during the Cultural Revolution. She discusses Xi Jinping's complex rise amid family turmoil, shedding light on his privileged upbringing compared to her own tumultuous youth. Yang delves into the emotional toll of political upheaval on families, particularly during Mao's purges, and explores how these experiences shaped identities and political beliefs. The personal stories reveal deep contrasts in loyalty and disillusionment, reflecting the evolution of political identity in modern China.
35:46

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Xi Jinping's mysterious disappearance in 2012 sparked rumors of various speculations, highlighting the intense scrutiny surrounding his absence.
  • Xi Jinping's upbringing during the Cultural Revolution instilled a deep-rooted commitment to the Communist Party, shaping his political resilience and convictions.

Deep dives

Xi Jinping's Mysterious Disappearance

Xi Jinping's sudden absence in 2012 raised significant speculation as to his whereabouts and well-being. Government censorship heightened rumors surrounding Xi's disappearance, ranging from an assassination attempt to severe illness or imprisonment. Despite various theories, Xi emerged just as mysteriously as he disappeared, indicating his return to the political scene.

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