Chinese Whispers Rana Mitter on the legacy of Sun Yat-sen
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Mar 10, 2025 
Rana Mitter, a historian specializing in modern Chinese history, delves into the fascinating legacy of Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. He discusses how Sun's vision for democracy and infrastructure shaped both Taiwan and mainland China, highlighting his unique blend of nationalism and welfare principles. The conversation also covers Sun's enduring influence on liberalism amidst the political chaos of early 20th century China, and how interpretations of his legacy continue to evolve, illuminating the complexities of identity and governance in the region.
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Sun Yat-sen's Revolutionary Life
- Sun Yat-sen, born in Southern China, was a revolutionary figure who sought to overthrow the Qing dynasty.
- Despite being overseas during the 1911 revolution, his ideas and activism earned him the title "Father of the Nation".
Three Principles of the People
- Sun Yat-sen's Three Principles of the People—nationalism, democracy, and people's welfare—aimed to establish a modern Chinese republic.
- His vision included social welfare programs within a unified nation, reflecting a unique blend of political ideologies.
Sun's Vision for China
- Sun Yat-sen's vision for China resembled an early form of a social democratic liberal state.
- He advocated for constitutional parliamentary democracy, social welfare, and significant infrastructure projects like the Three Gorges Dam.