Two years of the "Hu Shi Critique Movement". This is not only a criticism of Hu Shi's personal thoughts, but also a negation and criticism of the entire modern culture. Hu Shih's liberal ideas became the central goal of this critique. In Chairman Mao's eyes, Hu Shih's liberal ideas did not conform to the Marxist-Leninist direction of the Chinese revolution, and could even lead to the failure of the revolutionary cause.
Chairman Mao believed that Hu Shih overemphasized the freedom and rights of the individual and neglected the interests of the collective. In his view, Hu Shih's liberal ideas were to protect the interests of a small group of people at the expense of the interests of the majority of the people. This is completely contrary to the Communist Party of China's concept of people first and common prosperity.
Of course, Hu Shih was not entirely opposed to the revolution. He had previously supported the New Culture Movement and worked with progressives such as Chen Duxiu. But he is more interested in achieving social change through peaceful, gradual means than through violence and armed struggle.
The differences between the two great men lie not only in their political positions and ideas, but also in their views on history and the people. Chairman Mao believed that only through revolution can the people's liberation and happiness be truly realized. Hu Shih, on the other hand, believes that excessive revolutionary action will lead to social chaos and destruction, and more likely to lead to more victimization.
At the same time, Hu Shi's evaluation of Chairman Mao is not entirely unfounded. In the social background at that time, Chairman Mao did not have the same higher education as Hu Shih, but he became a great leader in Chinese history with his deep affection for the people and his firm belief in the revolutionary cause. Hu Shi's remarks, on the contrary, reflect his excessive admiration for knowledge and academic qualifications, while ignoring his true talent and potential.
From the exchanges between the two great men, we can see a precious memory in the history of the Chinese nation. In that changing era, Hu Shi and Chairman Mao were like two bright stars, each shining their own light. They have cooperated and disagreed, but they have all worked hard for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Today, when we look back on history, we should cherish more those who worked hard for the development of the nation, instead of being too entangled in the differences and conflicts between them.
This history teaches us that even great people have their own limitations and prejudices. But it is precisely because they dare to stick to their beliefs and dare to fight for their ideals that they have become great men of history. And we, as latecomers, should learn from them the spirit of adhering to ideals and having the courage to explore, and work hard for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
After seven years of in-depth discussion of Hu Shih's thought, Chairman Mao Zedong was deeply involved in and guided the process, insisting on clearly pointing out the importance of rational assessment. At a gathering in 1956, Chairman Mao said sincerely: "Hu Shih's contribution to the New Culture Movement will never be forgotten, and we need to face the facts truthfully." Although the discussion and criticism have been ongoing, Hu Shi has been invited to return to the motherland many times to jointly promote a new chapter in history. But Hu Shi chose another path and went to live in the United States. On February 24, 1962, Hu Shi died of illness at the age of 71. There was a time when there was a deep friendship and cooperation between Chairman Mao and Hu Shih, but differences in history and views diverged the relationship between the two giants. On the stage of history, both Hu Shi's open-mindedness and Chairman Mao Zedong's Marxist-Leninist ideas have injected unique strength into China's progress. This historical fact tells us that while differences in ideas can lead to disagreements, history will fairly evaluate everyone's efforts and efforts.