The Prince

Redder than red

239 snips
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.
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ANECDOTE

Xi's Mysterious Disappearance

  • Xi Jinping disappeared for 14 days in 2012, right before becoming China's leader.
  • This fueled rumors of assassination attempts, health issues, and political struggles.
ANECDOTE

Life Inside Zhongnanhai

  • Nanyang Li, daughter of Mao's secretary, recalls visiting Zhongnanhai as a child.
  • She contrasts her family's modest living with the privileged lifestyle of families like Xi Jinping's.
INSIGHT

Xi's Elite Origins

  • Xi Jinping was born into political royalty, his father being a founding father of modern China.
  • Xi Zhongxun fought alongside Mao during the civil war, rising to a prominent position.
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