Feng Tejun
Abstract
In order to understand the vastness of changes taking place in 1990s China, one must first understand the development of China over the past 45 years. This timeframe from 1949 to 1994 can be split into four distinct periods. The first was the founding of the PRC, from 1949-1955, which saw an increase in economic development, living conditions, and Chinese political power. The second was from 1956-1966, and was characterized by the Chinese people advancing through difficulties, which included droughts and poor leadership decisions. The third period is considered a disastrous decade, as it saw the full force of the Cultural Revolution. However, it did see an improvement of Sino-American relations, which have had a profoundly successful result on China. Finally, the fourth period took place after the death of Mao in 1976 and it has been the finest period in post-revolutionary China. With economic reforms aimed at giving more autonomy to private businesses, China’s GNP has doubled and its economic infrastructure has increased greatly. Political reforms during this period have also given more rights to the Chinese citizens. Overall economic and political changes, described as China’s “Opening” policy, have put China on a new path that has led to many improvements for Chinese citizens.
Key Words: Opening Policy, Mao Zedong, Cultural Revolution, Post-Revolutionary China,
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