This biography by Walter Isaacson provides a detailed and balanced account of Henry Kissinger's life, from his childhood as a persecuted Jew in Nazi Germany to his rise as a prominent figure in American foreign policy. The book examines Kissinger's complex personality, his relationships with key figures like Richard Nixon, and his significant contributions to and controversies within American diplomacy. Isaacson draws on extensive interviews with Kissinger and over 150 other sources, including private papers and classified memos, to offer a nuanced view of Kissinger's realist approach to foreign policy and its moral implications.
Jung Chang's "Wild Swans" is a powerful memoir recounting three generations of women in China, from the early 20th century to the Cultural Revolution. It offers a poignant and intimate perspective on the tumultuous changes that shaped modern China. The narrative spans political upheaval, social transformation, and personal struggles, providing a rich tapestry of Chinese history. Chang's vivid storytelling and unflinching honesty make this a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of China's past. The book's impact lies in its ability to humanize history, revealing the profound impact of political events on individual lives.
This biography by Philip Short is considered the most measured, thoughtful, and complete account of Mao Zedong's life available in English. It chronicles Mao's early life, his anarchist and socialist beginnings, his rise to power, and his significant roles in the Chinese Communist Party. The book delves into Mao's military strategies, his policies such as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, and his complex relationships with his colleagues and family. Short draws on a wide range of sources, including Chinese publications and personal contacts, to provide a detailed and balanced view of Mao's life and his enduring impact on China[2][3][5].
A true honor to speak with Jung Chang.
She is the author of Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China (sold 15+ million copies worldwide) and Mao: The Unknown Story.
We discuss:
- what it was like growing up during the Cultural Revolution as the daughter of a denounced official
- why the CCP continues to worship the biggest mass murderer in human history.
- how exactly Communist totalitarianism was able to subjugate a billion people
- why Chinese leaders like Xi and Deng who suffered from the Cultural Revolution don't condemn Mao
- how Mao starved and killed 40 million people during The Great Leap Forward in order to exchange food for Soviet weapons
Wild Swans is the most moving book I've ever read. It was a real privilege to speak with its author.
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Timestamps
(00:00:00) - Growing up during Cultural Revolution
(00:15:58) - Could officials have overthrown Mao?
(00:34:09) - Great Leap Forward
(00:48:12) - Modern support of Mao
(01:03:24) - Life as peasant
(01:21:30) - Psychology of communist society
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