Victor Shih discusses the contrasting lessons drawn from the Cultural Revolution, particularly focusing on Xi Jinping's perspective. While many believed the party needed to liberalize, Xi learned the importance of aligning with the winning side in political struggles. This segment explores how Xi's experiences shaped his political strategies and alliances, particularly with military officials during his early career in Fujian province.
"So the cultural revolution generation I think you know a lot of people suffered horrendously including Xiinping himself but then basically you have two types of lessons that people drew from it. So th..."
Victor Shih discusses the contrasting lessons drawn from the Cultural Revolution, particularly focusing on Xi Jinping's perspective. While many believed the party needed to liberalize, Xi learned the importance of aligning with the winning side in political struggles. This segment explores how Xi's early experiences in Fujian province, including building relationships with military officers, laid the groundwork for his future rise to power.
"So the cultural revolution generation I think you know a lot of people suffered horrendously including Xiinping himself but then basically you have two types of lessons that people drew from it. So th..."
In this segment, Shih highlights Xi Jinping's strategic efforts to cultivate relationships with military leaders during his tenure in Fujian. By engaging with military officers and investing in their facilities, Xi laid the groundwork for future support that would prove crucial when he ascended to power. The discussion also touches on Xi's later purges of some of these allies, illustrating the complexities of his leadership style.
"he was about to be elevated to be secretary general of the Chinese Communist Party, many of the people that he knew back in Fujen are now generals. They're in charge of important military units. And o..."
In this segment, Victor Shih highlights Xi Jinping's strategic efforts to cultivate relationships with military leaders during his time in Fujian. By engaging with military officers and even constructing facilities for them, Xi ensured he had crucial support when he eventually ascended to leadership. The discussion also touches on the implications of Xi's purges of former allies, showcasing the complexities of his political maneuvers.
"he was about to be elevated to be secretary general of the Chinese Communist Party, many of the people that he knew back in Fujen are now generals. They're in charge of important military units. And o..."