Archive · 19 May 2025
Key Facts from a Quiz on Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution
The Cultural Revolution was a big change in China led by Mao Zedong.
It began when a newspaper published a review that criticized the emperor.
The government sent out student groups called Red Guards to punish people they thought were against the revolution.
The main goals were to get rid of the "Four Olds."
Many young people were sent to work in the countryside, including Wang Yi, who later became China’s ambassador to Japan.
Citizens also went through public humiliation to change their thinking.
A review of a play criticizing the emperor sparked the Cultural Revolution.
The review was published in the Wenhui Daily newspaper in November 1965.
Red Guards, student shock troops, terrorized those seen as enemies of the Revolution.
The Cultural Revolution aimed to eliminate "Four Olds" - old ideas, culture, customs, and habits.
Wang Yi, China's former Ambassador to Japan, was sent to the countryside during the revolution.
- Who
- Wang Yi, Red Guards
- What
- The Cultural Revolution, involving the persecution of perceived enemies and attempts to eliminate old ideas and customs.
- When
- Began in November 1965 with the publication of a review.
- Where
- China
- Why
- To change the way people thought and get rid of the "Four Olds".
Revolutionary Goals
Historical Context
The Four Olds
Revolutionary Goals
A way to reform thoughts and behaviors of the public.
Historical Context
Focus on wiping out elements considered 'old'.
- Review Publication Date
- November 1965
- Review Publication
- Wenhui Daily
- Cultural Revolution Agents
- Students
- Student Group Name
- Red Guards
- Four Olds
- Old ideas, culture, customs, habits
- Thought Reform Technique
- Struggle sessions
- Prominent Figure
- Wang Yi