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.