Mao Zedong was a revolutionary leader who established communist rule in China and served as the first Chairman of the People's Republic of China from its establishment in 1949 until his death in 1976. As chairman, Mao launched controversial campaigns like the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution that had disastrous economic and social consequences but aimed to solidify his power and communist ideology. Mao's rule transformed China's government and society but also led to widespread violence, oppression, and millions of deaths under his authoritarian leadership before his death ended his dictatorship.

1. China under Mao Zedong By Grace Tant

2. Timeline Mao also joins the Chinese Nationalist Party (GMD) and works to unite the two parties. 1923 Mao joins the new Chinese Communist Party (CCP). 1921 Qing formally abdicate throne, ending Qing dynasty. 1912 Chinese Revolution of 1911. 1911 Mao Zedong born December 26. 1893

3. Timeline 2 After years of opposition, GMD allies with CCP to fight Japan. 1936 Mao builds peasant army while in exile in mountains. 1928 Chiang Kai-shek attacks the CCP and becomes leader of GMD. 1927 Nationalist general Chiang Kai-shek leads the Northern Expedition, a campaign that unites more than half of China under a Nationalist government. 1926

4. Timeline 3 Chiang Kai-shek and allies flee to Taiwan. Republic of China formed on October 1. Mao Zedong declares himself dictator. 1949 War erupts between CCP and GMP. Japan surrenders to China after US bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. 1945 Mao appointed Chairman of Communist Central Committee. 1943

5. Timeline 4 Mao dies on September 9. 1976 Mao invites President Richard Nixon to visit China. 1972 Mao launches the Great Proletariat Cultural Revolution. 1966 Mao cedes his lawmaking position after an economic plan he called the “Great Leap Forward” failed dismally. 1958 Hundred Flowers Campaign begins. 1956