The Changing Face of China

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Where is China heading in the twenty-first century? Recent restrictions on liberty, including a new "cyberwall" that blocks access to pro-democracy websites, have dampened hopes for a new era of freedom following rapid economic growth. The challenge lies in whether the Communist Party can reconcile an economy that demands liberal reform with their hard-line governance. Additionally, the strain on natural resources could lead to environmental disaster. In this engaging account, John Gittings, a seasoned China specialist, explores modern Chinese history to address these pressing questions. His narrative spans the last fifty years, covering events from Peach-Blossom socialism and the Great Leap Forward to the Cultural Revolutions and the Tiananmen Square massacre. Gittings emphasizes that the most significant threats to the Chinese people today stem from environmental degradation and pollution. He argues that the real nightmare scenario is not the collapse of the Party or financial institutions, but a severe water shortage. Drawing on three decades of reporting, Gittings provides a comprehensive history of one of the world's superpowers, offering valuable insights for those interested in modern China and its political landscape.