Mao Zedong vs. Xi Jinping

Attribute	Mao Zedong	Xi Jinping
Time Period	1949-1976	2012-present
Political Ideology	Communism	Communism with Chinese characteristics
Role in Communist Party	Founding member and leader	General Secretary and President
Economic Policies	Great Leap Forward, Cultural Revolution	Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era
Foreign Policy	Support for global communist movements	Belt and Road Initiative, assertive stance in South China Sea

Background

Mao Zedong, also known as Chairman Mao, was the founding father of the People's Republic of China and ruled the country from 1949 until his death in 1976. He was a key figure in the Chinese Communist Party and led the country through significant social and economic changes during his tenure. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, is the current General Secretary of the Communist Party of China and the President of the People's Republic of China. He has been in power since 2012 and has implemented various reforms and policies during his time in office.

Leadership Style

Mao Zedong was known for his authoritarian leadership style, often making decisions unilaterally and ruling with an iron fist. He implemented various campaigns such as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, which had significant social and economic consequences for China. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, has been described as a more pragmatic leader who seeks to consolidate power through anti-corruption campaigns and economic reforms. He has also emphasized the importance of the Chinese Dream and national rejuvenation.

Economic Policies

Under Mao Zedong's leadership, China underwent significant economic changes, including the collectivization of agriculture and the establishment of communes. However, these policies led to widespread famine and economic hardship for many Chinese citizens. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, has focused on economic reforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and Made in China 2025. He has also emphasized the importance of innovation and technological advancement in driving China's economic growth.

Foreign Policy

Mao Zedong was known for his revolutionary foreign policy, supporting communist movements around the world and engaging in conflicts such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He also sought to establish China as a global superpower and challenge Western imperialism. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, has pursued a more assertive foreign policy, particularly in the South China Sea and with regards to Taiwan. He has also sought to strengthen China's relationships with other countries through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative.

Social Policies

Under Mao Zedong's rule, China underwent significant social changes, including the promotion of gender equality and the eradication of traditional Chinese customs. However, his policies also led to widespread human rights abuses and political repression. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, has implemented various social policies such as poverty alleviation and environmental protection. He has also emphasized the importance of traditional Chinese values and culture in shaping the country's future.

Legacy

Mao Zedong is a controversial figure in Chinese history, with some viewing him as a visionary leader who transformed China into a global superpower, while others see him as a dictator responsible for the deaths of millions of people. His legacy continues to shape Chinese politics and society to this day. Xi Jinping, on the other hand, is still in power and his legacy is yet to be fully determined. However, he has already made significant changes to China's political and economic landscape during his time in office.