The Secret Journal of Premier Zhao Ziyang is a first-hand account of the events leading up to and surrounding the Tiananmen Square massacre of 1989. Written by Zhao Ziyang, the former Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, the journal provides a unique insider's perspective on one of the most pivotal events in modern Chinese history.
Zhao Ziyang's Background
Zhao Ziyang was born in 1919 in Henan Province, China. He joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1938 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1980, he was appointed Premier of the State Council, a position he held until his dismissal in 1989.
4.2 out of 5
| Language | : | English |
| File size | : | 1703 KB |
| Text-to-Speech | : | Enabled |
| Screen Reader | : | Supported |
| Enhanced typesetting | : | Enabled |
| Word Wise | : | Enabled |
| Print length | : | 348 pages |
Zhao was a reformist leader who advocated for economic liberalization and political openness. He believed that China needed to move away from the rigid central planning system that had characterized its economy for decades. He also believed that the CCP needed to embrace a more tolerant and inclusive political environment.
The Tiananmen Square Protests
In April 1989, student-led protests began in Tiananmen Square in Beijing. The students were calling for democratic reforms and an end to corruption. Zhao Ziyang initially supported the students and urged the government to engage in dialogue with them. However, as the protests grew larger and more confrontational, Zhao's position became increasingly isolated within the CCP leadership.
Zhao's Dismissal and the Massacre
On May 19, 1989, Zhao Ziyang was dismissed from his position as Premier. He was replaced by Li Peng, a hardline conservative who opposed the student protests. On June 4, 1989, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) entered Tiananmen Square and opened fire on the protesters, killing hundreds of people.
Zhao's Journal
Zhao Ziyang began writing his journal shortly after his dismissal. He continued to write it until his death in 2005. The journal provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the Tiananmen Square massacre, as well as Zhao's own thoughts and feelings about the tragedy.
The journal is a valuable historical document that sheds light on one of the most important events in modern Chinese history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the Tiananmen Square massacre, Chinese politics, or the history of China in general.
Zhao's Legacy
Zhao Ziyang is remembered as a courageous and principled leader who stood up for his beliefs in the face of adversity. He was a true reformer who believed that China could become a more prosperous and just society. His legacy continues to inspire Chinese people who are fighting for democracy and human rights.
The Secret Journal of Premier Zhao Ziyang is a powerful and moving account of a pivotal moment in Chinese history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the Tiananmen Square massacre and the Chinese political system.
