Deng Xiaoping
Deng Xiaoping (1904), Chinese politician. The son of wealthy parents, he became a full-time worker for the Chinese Communist Party in 1927. He subsequently served in the civil war against the Nationalists and took part in the ‘long march’ led by Mao-Tse-Tung (1934-35). After the communist takeover in 1949, he rose steadily through the party ranks but fell from favour during the Cultural Revolution (1966-69) and again in 1976. Following Mao’s death he became vice chairman of the central committee and vice premier to Hua Guo Feng (1920- ). Although not officially recognized as leader, he emerged as the dominant force in Chinese politics after Hua’s fall in 1982. Under his direction China pursued a policy of economic liberalization combined with severe repression of political dissent. Deng’s attempts to improve relations with the West suffered a major setback following the Chinese army’s massacre of protesting students in Tianamen Square, Beijing, in 1989. Despite his official retirement in that year he continues to dominate policy making.
