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A Republic Forms
The formation of a constitutional republic, the Republic of China, ended the Qing dynasty, the last in 4,000 years of Imperial rule. -
Chiang Kai Shek
Lived 1887 - 1975, leader of China 1928 - 1948. Lost the Civil War against communism and established a “New China” in Taiwan, ruling until his death. -
Long March
A military retreat undertaken by the Red Army of the Communist Party of China to evade the pursuit of the Chinese Nationalist Party's army. It began Mao Zedong's ascent to power. It also introduced him to the country folk; the peasants/farmers that Mao would lead. -
Mao Zedong
Lived 1893 - 1976, leader of China 1943 – 1976. Communist revolutionary who founded the People's Republic of China. -
Civil War
A fight for power between the Republic of China and the Communist Party. The Chinese Civil War was the third largest war in all of time after World War II and World War I. -
Who Wins?
The Communist Party took control of most of China, leaving the Republic with only islands. The war ended when about 2 million fled to Taiwan. -
Great Leap Forward
A plan by Mao Zedong to increase China's industry and economy. The plan failed and led to possibly the largest famine in history. -
Cultural Revolution
A period of social change in Communist China, spearheaded by Mao Zedong to get rid of those who disagreed with him and indoctinate the youth. -
Deng Ziaoping
Lived 1904 - 1997, leader of China 1978 – 1989. An important Chinese revolutionary, politician and reformer. Never held office as the head of state or the head of government, but was the de facto leader of the People's Republic of China. -
Tiananmen Square Protests
Organised by groups of students, intellectuals and labour activists to protest the Communist the economy. Some people also wanted democracy. On June 4, the government used force to end the protests. This left many people injured or dead (sources differ on exact numbers).
