Seeking Truth From Facts on China

The Hill

By Mike Gallagher

November 7, 2019

In 1978, Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Deng Xiaoping urged the Chinese people to "seek truth from facts." I've gladly decided to accept Deng's invitation. Last month marked the 70th anniversary of Communist rule over China, and let's be clear: it was not a time for celebration. Rather, this anniversary was an opportunity to reflect and assess the 70 years of Communist rule. Contrary to the pop, parades, propaganda and disinformation seen during the CCP's Oct. 1 celebration, here are the facts about the history of the CCP's 70 years in power.

On Oct. 1, 1949 Mao Zedong proclaimed the beginning of CCP rule from the walls of the Forbidden City, the former home of China's emperors. Soon after he promptly installed himself in Zhongnanhai, a historically significant former resort of Chinese rulers. Beyond the walls, the masses struggled. But within, party leaders relaxed where the emperors once frolicked with their court.

Read the full op-ed here.