ABSTRACT
This chapter provides insights into the historical background of the Chinese Revolution. Chalmers Johnson points out that revolution consists of changes in both the value system and the structural features of a society brought about by violence. The Chinese Communists themselves view China’s politics as an ongoing process of revolution which leads to a certain, if distant, future. Western concepts which appealed to the Chinese included nationalism, democracy, and the need for scientific and technological modernization. While the roots of China’s modern revolution run deep in China’s history, it is useful to begin with the “century of humiliation” introduced by the Opium War of 1839–1842. Certain facets of China’s political heritage seem to have been especially significant in influencing present political values and structures. The next period in Chinese politics, from 1961 to 1966, was characterized by economic improvement and increasing political instability.
