Little Red Book

Definition

The Little Red Book, officially titled 'Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-tung,' is a collection of statements and writings by Mao Zedong, first published in 1964. It became a symbol of the Cultural Revolution in China and was widely distributed among the populace, serving as a guide to communist ideology and revolutionary thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Little Red Book sold over a billion copies, making it one of the most printed books in history.
2. It served not only as a political guide but also as a tool for indoctrination, influencing the beliefs and behaviors of millions of Chinese citizens.
3. During the Cultural Revolution, possession of the Little Red Book became a status symbol and a requirement for participation in political activities.
4. The book contains quotes on various topics including class struggle, revolution, and the importance of communism, often emphasizing loyalty to Mao.
5. The emphasis on the Little Red Book contributed to a cult of personality around Mao Zedong, affecting Chinese society long after the Cultural Revolution ended.

Review Questions

• How did the Little Red Book influence everyday life during the Cultural Revolution?
  • The Little Red Book significantly influenced everyday life during the Cultural Revolution by shaping the thoughts and actions of individuals across China. It was used as a guide for revolutionary behavior and was often cited in political discussions, rallies, and public speeches. The pervasive nature of its quotes made it essential for anyone wanting to participate in political life or gain social standing, effectively creating an environment where loyalty to Mao and adherence to his ideas were paramount.
• Analyze how the Little Red Book functioned as both a political tool and a cultural artifact during its peak use.
  • The Little Red Book functioned as a powerful political tool by disseminating Mao's ideologies across China, facilitating indoctrination among citizens. As a cultural artifact, it represented not only Mao's personal beliefs but also reflected the societal values imposed during the Cultural Revolution. Its widespread distribution transformed it into an object of reverence and fear, where failure to embrace its teachings could lead to social ostracism or persecution, thus shaping both individual identities and collective national consciousness.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Little Red Book on Chinese society and politics after the Cultural Revolution.
  • The long-term effects of the Little Red Book on Chinese society and politics are profound. While its immediate impact faded after the Cultural Revolution, its legacy contributed to an enduring sense of Maoist nostalgia among certain groups within China. Additionally, the book's promotion of extreme ideological loyalty laid groundwork for future generations' understanding of political allegiance in China. This resulted in ongoing debates about historical memory, party loyalty, and how China's past influences its contemporary governance and societal values.

Related terms

Cultural Revolution: A sociopolitical movement initiated by Mao Zedong from 1966 to 1976, aimed at preserving Chinese communism by purging remnants of capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society.

Mao Zedong:

The founding father of the People's Republic of China, Mao was a key figure in the Chinese Communist Party and implemented policies that shaped modern China.

Red Guards:

Youth militias mobilized during the Cultural Revolution who were tasked with enforcing Maoist ideology and attacking perceived enemies of the state.