Nanjing's “Second Cultural Revolution” of 1974

• DOI: 10.1017/s0305741012001191
• Publication Date: 2012-11-23T08:41:17Z
• Authors: Guoqiang Dong; Andrew G. Walder
• Keywords: Offensive; Cultural Revolution; Elite

Abstract China experienced extensive civil strife in 1974, as elite factionalism during the “criticize Lin Biao and Confucius” campaign revived popular contention provinces. Past research has characterized these conflicts a “second Cultural Revolution” – an offensive by resurgent red guards rebels to resist restoration of purged civilian officials powerful posts. In Nanjing, however, were entirely different nature. Civilian cadres directed against army officers who still dominated government throughout province. Popular protests Nanjing not led former rebels, whose ranks had been decimated unusually harsh military suppression campaigns, but instead ordinary citizens suffered purges rustication campaigns late 1960s. While cities like Hangzhou Wuhan was officials, used ensure their victory over rivals. The pattern politics 1960s, while anticipated Revolution abuses characteristic end Mao era.