China's Cultural Revolution Began 60 Years Ago Under Mao Zedong

China marked the 60th anniversary of the start of Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution, a massive political and social upheaval that fundamentally transformed Chinese society. The Cultural Revolution, launched by Communist Party Chairman Mao Zedong in 1966, aimed to purge capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society through violent class struggle and the persecution of intellectuals, officials, and others deemed enemies of the revolution. The decade-long campaign continued until Mao's death in 1976, leaving millions dead and Chinese society deeply scarred by political persecution, economic disruption, and the destruction of cultural heritage.