An intimate history of one of the most formidable and elusive rulers in modern history\ From humble origins in the provinces, Mao Zedong rose to absolute power, unifying with an iron fist a vast country torn apart by years of weak leadership, colonialism, and war. This sharply drawn and insightful account brings to life this modern-day emperor and the tumultuous era that he did so much to shape.
An intimate history of one of the most formidable and elusive rulers in modern history From humble origins in the provinces, Mao Zedong rose to absolute power, unifying with an iron fist a vast country torn apart by years of weak leadership, colonialism, and war. This sharply drawn and insightful account brings to life this modern-day emperor and the tumultuous era that he did so much to shape.
Foreword Acknowledgments\ 1. A Child of Hunan\ 2. Self-Strengthening\ 3. Casting Around\ 4. Into the Party\ 5. Workers and Peasants\ 6. The Long Retreat\ 7. Crafting the Image\ 8. Taking Over\ 9. The Ultimate Vision\ 10. Bleak Harvest\ 11. Fanning the Flames\ 12. Embers\ Notes