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State of the World from NPR
The Fight Over Who Writes the History of Modern China
Oct 2, 2024
As China marks 75 years of Communist Party rule, a fierce battle brews over its historical narrative. The party seeks to shape a positive recounting of events, while archival discoveries at Stanford reveal contentious truths from insiders like Li Re. The discussion also dives into the significance of June 4th, 1989, and the ongoing struggle against historical censorship. Legal disputes further complicate efforts to control the narrative, showcasing a reluctant clash between authoritarianism and the quest for an authentic history.
05:30
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Quick takeaways
- The Chinese Communist Party is actively controlling historical narratives to reinforce its legitimacy and suppress dissenting perspectives.
- Li Re's diaries highlight internal contradictions within the Party, illustrating the broader struggle over historical interpretation and governmental power dynamics.
Deep dives
The Control of Historical Narrative in China
The Chinese Communist Party seeks to maintain stringent control over the historical narrative of its governance, especially during national celebrations like the recent commemoration of 75 years of communist rule. State media emphasizes the impressive achievements of the last decades while downplaying significant shortcomings and missed opportunities linked to one-party rule. This intense focus on controlling history has heightened in recent years as the Party attempts to stifle dissenting voices that could challenge its portrayal of events. The importance of this narrative control is not only a matter of pride but also a means to strengthen the legitimacy of the Party's power.
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