MAO – GREAT LEAP FORWARD & CULTURAL REVOLUTION
“Learn from the masses and then teach them.” – Chairman Mao
DRIVING QUESTIONS: What is the difference between reform and revolution?
When, if ever, should a government use culture to reinforce ideology or reforms?
What is lost materially and psychologically when a government destroys parts of a country’s cultural heritage?
Great Leap Forward
The Legacy of Mao
What were the main causes of the Cultural Revolution? What role did Mao Zedong play in beginning the Revolution? Was he “responsible” for it?
Propaganda Posters
What do propaganda posters reveal about Chinese society during the Cultural Revolution? How are people dressed? What kind of facial expressions do they have? What message do you think these posters are meant to send? What purpose do you think propaganda posters served during the Cultural Revolution? Why do you think propaganda posters were an effective tool of communication in China during the Cultural Revolution?
Li Zhensheng’s collection of photographs during the Cultural Revolution
The Little Red Book – “To read too many books is harmful” – Mao