Reasons for Launching the Cultural Revolution

Question 1

How did power struggle contribute to the launch of the Cultural Revolution?

Answer 1

Mao was desperate to destroy his rivals within his own party and would do this through mobilising the young people of China.

Question 2

How did cultural cleansing contribute to the launch of the Cultural Revolution?

Answer 2

• Attack on the four old

- Destroyed tradition elements of China.

Question 3

How did the rectification campaign contribute to the launch of the Cultural Revolution?

Answer 3

• Mao believed that many in the CCP were neo-capitalists and desired personal power that robbed them of their revolutionary purpose.
• He planned to circumvent party bureaucracy and appeal directly to the Chinese people.
• He believed the older revolutionaries who had defeated the nationalists had lost their revolutionary fervour. The only way for him to save the revolution was by waging war against the Communist Party hierarchy itself.

Question 4

How did continuing revolution contribute to the launch of the Cultural Revolution?

Answer 4

• Mao believed if Chinese revolution stood still, the CCP would a self-serving bureaucracy. The cultural revolution would prevent this
• The younger generation (Red Guard) would continue the revolution.