Agrarian Radicalism in China, 1968-1981

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The book explores the dynamics of radical leaders within the Chinese Communist Party during and after the Cultural Revolution, highlighting their minority status and opposition to moderate forces. David Zweig details how these radicals employed unconventional strategies, such as leveraging media and political networks, to promote their collectivist agendas. However, he reveals that Chinese peasants largely remained indifferent to Maoist ideology, responding pragmatically to policy changes based on personal and collective interests, while retaining their conservative values and entrepreneurial spirit.