ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the changing nature of elite conflict, changes in the path to power, elite composition, sources of leadership power, and the norms of leadership operation. The political longevity of the revolutionary elite notwithstanding, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leadership and political system have undergone far-reaching changes in the wake of Mao's death. The balance of power in the Party leadership underwent a decisive shift at the landmark Third Plenum in December 1978, in which Teng Hsiao-p'ing and his allies wrested the power from Chairman Hua, although they permitted him to keep the post for two more years. The CCP's Twelfth Congress, held in September 1982 formally endorsed the Tengist policy line and put a stamp of approval on Teng's leadership. Many analysts believe that various CCP leaders agree on main objectives, for example, modernization, and reforms, and differ only on the tactics and means to accomplish such goals.
