China’s May Fourth Movement

Definition

The May Fourth Movement was a cultural and intellectual revolution that took place in China during the early 20th century. It emerged as a response to the Chinese government's weak response to the Treaty of Versailles and sought to modernize China by promoting democracy, science, and vernacular language.

Related terms

New Culture Movement: A literary movement that emerged during the May Fourth Movement, focusing on rejecting traditional Chinese cultural values and embracing Western ideals.

Intellectuals: Individuals who engage in critical thinking, analysis, and academic pursuits. They often play a crucial role in shaping societal changes.

Nationalism: A strong sense of loyalty and devotion towards one's own nation or ethnic group, often accompanied by the desire for self-determination or independence.