- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Comprehensive Perspective on Huang Xing: Restoring the Historical View of Chinese Democratic Revolution
Laitan Fang*
Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology Graduate School, Gen. Tinio Street., 3100, Cabanatuan City, Philippines
Submission: April 10, 2024; Published: April 23, 2024
*Corresponding author: Laitan Fang, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology Graduate School, Gen. Tinio Street., 3100, Cabanatuan City, Philippines
How to cite this article: Laitan Fang*. Comprehensive Perspective on Huang Xing: Restoring the Historical View of Chinese Democratic Revolution. Acad J Politics and Public Admin. 2024; 1(3): 555562. DOI:10.19080/ACJPP.2024.01.555562.
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive, systematic exposition, analysis, and comparison of Huang Xing’s brief life and his critical, decisive, and historic role in the Chinese Democratic Revolution. It fully affirms his historical contributions, clarifies some misunderstandings and biases (such as being labeled as rightist or compromiser) that historians in the past have held about him, and restores history to its true form. China regards Mao Zedong as a “Great Man,” who in turn greatly admired Huang Xing, also treating him as a “Great Man.” Huang Xing is also known as the “Napoleon of the Chinese Revolution.” However, he had neither the idea nor the ambition to crown himself emperor. Instead, he took it upon himself to “oppose imperialism and feudalism,” and to establish a “democratic republic.” He led like-minded individuals with unwavering determination to make groundbreaking, epoch-making changes, organized and established the first democratic republic with a selfless spirit, and overthrew one ambitious figure after another who wished to restore the monarchy. He also re-established a democratic republican system, accelerating the process of building legal systems, education, and modernization in China. Due to his premature death and never having sought personal fame or status, historians have not fully restored the historical truth or given him his due historical status. It is no exaggeration to say that Huang Xing’s contribution and historical role in the Chinese Democratic Revolution is akin to Mao Zedong’s to the People’s Republic of China.
Keywords: Huang Xing; Great Man; Democratic Republic; Chinese Democratic Revolution; Selflessness
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Introduction
In 1840, the Opium War broke out. Marx, in “The Chinese Revolution and the European Revolution,” referred to it as an “extremely unjust war.” The prestige of the Qing Dynasty crumbled in the face of British guns, shattering the myth of the eternal prosperity of the Celestial Empire. From then on, the cycle of territorial concessions, indemnities, and national humiliation seemed endless. The sovereignty, independence, dignity, and territorial integrity that a sovereign state should have become a thing of the past. China descended from a feudal society into a semi-colonial, semi-feudal state, marking the beginning of China’s humiliating modern history. From then on, the Qing government became more politically opaque, corruption rampant, defense weakened, finances strained, and people’s livelihoods deteriorated daily. Peasant uprisings in China became frequent and continuous, fueled by escalating class and national conflicts.
In 1868, Japan, in a similar situation, successfully carried out the Meiji Restoration, drawing hope from the successful bourgeois democratic revolutions in the West. “Where is the edge of the world?” Heroes emerge in response to the demands of history and cultural environment. Huang Xing was born into such a background, contemplating the success and failure of uprisings and revolutions, with a strong desire for new knowledge and survival. He united all available forces, disregarding personal gains and losses, transcending life and death, adhering to self-discipline: “Not seeking self-establishment in fame, not seeking self-promotion in achievement, and even when successful, not lingering in position.” He disdained power struggles and never sought personal fame or status. As the first overseas returnee to advocate for democratic revolution, the first to raise the banner of anti-Qing democratic revolution, and the revolutionary leader widely respected domestically, he pioneered inland revolution, organized the first revolutionary organization - Huaxinghui (Society for the Revival of China), and established China’s first democratic republic. Through opposition to Yuan Shikai and imperialism, he recreated a democratic republic. Huang Xing’s timeless legend echoes through the annals of history, erecting an immortal monument.
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Historical Background
On October 25, 1874, Huang Xing (originally named Huang Zhen, also known as Huang Keqiang) was born in Liangtang, Longxi Township, Shanhua County, Hunan Province, China. Historically, this place was known for producing emperors. However, Huang Xing, dubbed “the Napoleon of the Chinese Revolution” Xue [1], was born into a family with a scholarly and official background, known for their anti-Qing sentiments, noble lineage, and high social status. Esteemed for their practical scholarship, real-world applications, high moral standards, concern for the country and its people, self-discipline, military and literary strategies, and visionary insights Liang [2], Liu [3], Mao [4], Huang Xing harbored no desire or ambition to crown himself emperor. Instead, he dedicated himself to “anti-imperialism and anti-feudalism,” establishing a “democratic republic.” With unwavering determination, he led like-minded individuals to enact epoch-making changes in the ancient, civilized, vast, populous, and long-suffering land of China. In a selfless manner, he personally organized the creation of the first democratic republic and overthrew Yuan Shikai, who aspired to become emperor, thus founding another democratic republic Shi & Shi [5].
As a thinker, educator, diplomat, politician, and revolutionary in late Qing China, Huang Xing was born into a family rich in traditional cultural heritage. Influenced by traditional culture from a young age, he aspired to save his country. He extensively read classical texts, engaged with scholars and warriors, delighted in revolutionary tales, and befriended revolutionary comrades. He diligently studied Western revolutionary history and bourgeois thought, never concerning himself with personal fame or status, and considered personal life and death trivial. Studying abroad, he pondered the causes of revolutionary successes and failures, disseminated new knowledge, preached patriotic ideals, and sought the path to a successful Chinese revolution Chen [6], Rao [7]. However, during the late Qing period, the feudal autocratic system was in deep crisis. The country faced severe issues such as political corruption, public despair, and national decline, leading to widespread dissatisfaction with the existing political system across all social strata and a longing for change Li [8]. Huang Xing realized that China needed to abandon the feudal autocratic system and establish a democratic, free republican system through anti-imperialism and anti-feudalism. He advocated for revolutionary ideas, actively organized revolutionary groups and forces, and worked to overthrow the Qing government to establish an independent, free, and democratic China He [9], Liu & Xiao [10]. His political propositions gained the support of many insightful individuals and the lower social strata, as they aligned with the contradictions in the social, political, and historical conditions of late Qing China, providing a “vast and fertile” ground for the rise and success of the revolutionary movement Huang [11], Shi & Shi [5].
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
Huang Xing played an irreplaceable and pivotal role in the process of China’s democratic revolution, exerting key, decisive, and historical impacts. His political propositions, leadership abilities, revolutionary theories and ideas, and his spirit of facing death without fear had significant influences and performances in the founding of democratic revolutionary organizations, establishment of the Tongmenghui (United League of China), formation of the revolutionary army, leading uprisings, promoting provincial independence, as well as in talent cultivation and youth education. His contributions not only lay in accelerating the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty but also in founding China’s democratic republican cause, recreating China’s democratic republican system and rule of law, advancing China’s modernization, and impacting the course of Chinese history.
Political Propositions and Leadership Abilities
As a politician and revolutionary, Huang Xing advocated for the establishment of a democratic republic, opposed monarchical autocracy, and promoted equality among all ethnicities while respecting different cultures and traditions. He pushed for national unity and believed democracy was an inevitable trend of history, emphasizing people’s democracy, national sovereignty, freedom, and equality. He believed that government power should originate from the people and serve them, advocating for people’s equal rights to vote, speak freely, and associate, thereby promoting the democratization and legal reform of politics. Through various means such as publishing newspapers, founding schools, issuing declarations, and organizing public assemblies, he disseminated new knowledge, enlightened minds, educated the public, propagated revolutionary and patriotic ideas, and united and coordinated all forces. He established extensive connections with other revolutionary groups, overseas Chinese, students studying abroad, government officials, and military personnel, collectively propelling the revolutionary cause Xiao [12]. Simultaneously, he actively coordinated between various revolutionary parties and interests, setting aside differences for reconciliation and cooperation, resolving conflicts, and uniting all forces that could be united. This garnered broader support, solidified the revolutionary goals and visions to overthrow the Qing Dynasty, and made significant contributions to China’s national stability and development Xi [13].
Revolutionary Theory and Thought
As a thinker and politician, Huang Xing set a firm goal of Promoting Modernization and drew on successful foreign revolutionary cases. Combining these with China’s national conditions, he was the first to propose the revolutionary theory of “national revolution” with a practical approach. He provided theoretical guidance for revolutionary intellectuals, organizations, united fronts, revolutionary bases, and strategies such as initiating uprisings in one province and support from others. His theories not only significantly guided the practice of the Chinese bourgeois revolution but also profoundly influenced the New Democratic Revolution and many of Mao Zedong’s revolutionary theories and thoughts. Moreover, they laid a solid ideological foundation for the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty Liu [14].
Struggle and Spiritual Leadership
Huang Xing, as a staunch advocate of democracy and revolution, had long placed life and death beyond his consideration, not caring for personal fame or position. He adhered to the motto of “diligence and selflessness,” showcasing an immensely noble moral character, selfless dedication, strong patriotism, firm nationalistic consciousness, tenacious fighting spirit, and unwavering resilience. He was the practical leader of uprisings and revolutions and also the spiritual leader of revolutionaries. Regardless of facing daunting situations and immense difficulties, he always led by example, staying on the front lines of the battlefield, persisting in the struggle, unafraid of danger or sacrifice. This spirit inspired numerous revolutionary enthusiasts to bravely move forward, laying a solid spiritual foundation for overthrowing the Qing Dynasty Xiao & Shi [15]. In multiple instances of “rejecting the leadership position,” Huang Xing consistently upheld the selfless realm, firmly believing that a revolutionary party must have a highly respected leader to establish authority, avoid power struggles between leaders, and continuously strengthen organizational unity, cohesion, and combat effectiveness. Therefore, he repeatedly declined the opportunity for others to elect him as the revolutionary leader, choosing instead to persuade others and staunchly support Sun Yat-sen’s leadership position, repeatedly saving revolutionary organizations and forces Shi & Shi [5]. His family members never held government positions or enjoyed any privileges or special treatment; instead, they lived alongside Huang Xing, experiencing a perilous life of constant danger and uncertainty. In difficult decisions between national and personal interests, Huang Xing unhesitatingly chose selflessness, regarding fame, wealth, and power as worthless and never seeking personal gain. Even after his death, he left behind a large debt for his family Liu [14].
Founding Democratic Revolutionary Organizations
Huang Xing, as the main organizer and planner of uprisings and revolutions, was the first among those who returned from overseas to advocate for democratic revolution, raising the banner of anti-Qing democratic revolution in China, becoming the revered revolutionary leader to whom all looked up, and pioneering inland revolution Luo [15]. At the age of 30, Huang Xing established the Huaxinghui during a birthday banquet, operating the revolution under the guise of the “Huaxing Company.” This was a significant historical innovation and the first revolutionary organization to raise the banner of anti-Qing democratic revolution in China, marking a groundbreaking moment in bourgeois democratic revolution. Its revolutionary goals were to overthrow the Qing Dynasty, restore China, and establish a republican government Lei & Lan [16].
Formation of the Tongmenghui (United League of China)
To unite all possible revolutionary forces, Huang Xing decided to establish a nationwide organization, the Tongmenghui, and believed that Sun Yat-sen, being older with earlier experiences in anti-Qing revolutions, travels in Europe and America, and possessing a wealth of knowledge, though lacking prestige among overseas students and not fully agreeing with him on political views and strategies (such as the locations, targets, and strategies of the revolution, which later events proved Huang’s foresight and careful planning), his own experiences, prestige, and resources could compensate for Sun Yat-sen’s shortcomings. Revolution was about action, not debate. Therefore, with a selfless mindset, he chose to yield and persuade others, respecting and recognizing Sun Yat-sen as the leader without the need for elections. Due to Huang’s insistence and decisiveness, others also agreed. The establishment of the Tongmenghui was a significant and farreaching event in modern history, which also greatly changed Sun Yat-sen’s character and mindset (such as being unapproachable and hard to communicate with), laying a solid foundation for the historical position of the Republic of China founded by Sun Yatsen Shi & Shi [5], Zhang [17].
Establishing the Revolutionary Army
As an outstanding military strategist, Huang Xing actively organized and established the revolutionary army during the uprisings and revolutions, rapidly expanding its strength through military academies, recruiting soldiers, raising funds, and purchasing weapons, providing crucial military support and armed forces for the revolutionary cause. He implemented the idea that “saving the country requires not just intellect but also military force” Liu & Xiao [10].
Leading Uprisings
As the main leader of the revolutionary army, Huang Xing led multiple uprisings during the revolutionary period (almost every armed struggle before the Xinhai Revolution (the Revolution of 1911 or the Chinese bourgeois democratic revolution), such as the famous Guangzhou and Wuchang uprisings. He meticulously planned and executed several military operations, including the capture of important cities like Wuhan and Nanjing, laying the foundation for overthrowing the Qing Dynasty. His excellent military skills and leadership ability were evident as he was adept at devising battle plans, organizing forces, and commanding battles, making significant contributions to the victory of the revolution Ren [18].
Promoting Provincial Independence
In the uprisings and revolutions, Huangxinghui promoted the independence of provinces. Through connections and cooperation with revolutionary parties in various provinces, he facilitated the independence of multiple provinces, transitioning the revolutionary areas and forces from isolated points to lines and blocks, accelerating the downfall of the Qing Dynasty Ren [18].
Establishing a Democratic Republic
After the success of the Xinhai Revolution, Huang Xing actively participated in the political, economic, and cultural construction of the country, contributed to drafting the Provisional Constitution, laying the legal foundation for establishing a democratic republic, and made outstanding contributions to the development of the democratic republican system. As an excellent diplomat, he also engaged in diplomatic activities to maintain national sovereignty and dignity, advocated for peaceful, cooperative, and win-win foreign policies, traveled abroad multiple times to promote democratic revolutionary ideas and the concept of a democratic republic, striving to gain recognition and support from the international community, and worked tirelessly to enhance China’s rightful position and influence on the international stage Cao [19].
Promoting Modernization
Huang Xing always focused on China’s modernization, proposing numerous reform plans and suggestions for industrial development, transportation improvement, education enhancement, military advancement, legal system construction, technology development, and skill improvement. These measures laid a solid foundation for China’s modernization process, propelling the nation towards prosperity and strength. Additionally, he emphasized values such as human rights, equality, and justice, actively contributing to the global human rights movement and earning respect and support on the international stage Shi & Shi [5].
Talent Cultivation and Youth Education
As an enlightened educator, Huang Xing believed in the importance of talent cultivation and youth education for the nation’s and ethnicity’s future. He encouraged young students to study abroad, seek truth, apply Western knowledge with Chinese wisdom, serve the country, practice what they learned, and aim for practical uses to govern the world, nurturing a generation of outstanding politicians, military leaders, and cultural figures. His philosophy on talent cultivation and youth education has profoundly influenced contemporary Chinese education Liu [20].
Reconstructing a Democratic Republic
Following Yuan Shikai’s seizure of power, Huang Xing actively opposed his autocratic rule, organizing multiple revolutions and proposing the reconstruction of a democratic republic based on constitutional law. His struggle played a significant role in preserving the ideals of democracy and opposing dictatorship, laying a solid legal foundation for Sun Yat-sen’s establishment of the Republic of China Shi & Shi [5].
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
Huang Xing faced multifaceted and comprehensive challenges throughout his life, enduring unimaginable sacrifices for unparalleled achievements and an irreplaceable role in the revolution.
Suppression and Retaliation by the Qing Government
The Qing government brutally suppressed and pursued the revolutionary organizations and armies led by Huang Xing, resorting to betrayal and seeking foreign aid to hunt down revolutionaries and prohibit their entry into certain countries. Huang Xing and his family were often forced into exile, facing constant threats of arrest and assassination. The Qing military used extreme measures, including poison gas and bombardments, causing significant casualties among the revolutionaries. Despite numerous dangers, Huang persisted in fighting until the Qing dynasty was overthrown (Xiao & Shi 2005).
The Reality of the Tongmenghui
With its headquarters in Tokyo and Sun Yat-sen often abroad in places like Yokohama, Europe, and Singapore, communication and transportation limitations meant Sun could hardly manage the Tongmenghui’s work, leaving the bulk of responsibilities to Huang Xing. Sun was primarily tasked with fundraising and purchasing weapons, but often failed to meet these objectives, causing delays in revolutionary activities that Huang had to compensate for, sometimes at great personal and revolutionary cost. Tasks such as propaganda, organizational development, recruitment, military formation, and revolutionary actions were also Huang’s responsibility Ren [18]. Furthermore, Sun’s alleged susceptibility to bribery, factionalism, and actions damaging the Tongmenghui’s credibility led to internal dissatisfaction and calls for leadership changes. Despite this, Huang, valuing the revolution over personal status and backed by his high prestige, refused to become the leader, quelling the dissent. He remained committed to opposing any threats to the democratic republic, irrespective of personal risk Shi & Shi [5].
Internal Factional Struggles and Splits
Huang Xing often faced challenges and disagreements from different factions within the party and the military. Power struggles and disputes over interests among different factions posed difficulties and challenges to Huang Xing’s leadership. These internal struggles significantly drained the revolutionary organization and forces. He had to constantly mediate and resolve conflicts between different factions with a selfless mindset to maintain a united front and vitality of the revolution Cao [19].
Financial Difficulties and Scarcity of Resources
Huang Xing frequently encountered severe financial difficulties and shortages of resources. Sun Yat-sen, who was primarily responsible for fundraising and weapons procurement, often failed to complete these tasks or provide timely supplies, leaving the revolutionary organization and army facing a lack of sufficient funds, weapons, and materials. Huang Xing had to spend time and energy to compensate, leading to insufficient preparation for uprisings and revolutions or prolonging their timing, placing them at a disadvantage or exposing them prematurely in uprisings, revolutions, and battles, resulting in heavy casualties and high costs Rao [7]. Moreover, due to war and economic collapse, the ignorance and hardship of the people also posed significant challenges for Huang Xing in gaining public support. He had to travel far and wide seeking domestic and international support to ensure the normal operation of the revolutionary organization and army. After the revolution, Huang Xing also faced economic challenges, needing to address the country’s poverty and backwardness to promote economic development and social progress. He needed to formulate effective economic policies to improve the people’s living standards and increase the country’s fiscal revenue Luo [15].
Diplomatic Pressure and International Interference
Some Western powers insanely interfered in China’s internal affairs, attempting to maintain their interests in China. This intervention from international forces brought significant external pressure to the revolutionary cause led by Huang Xing. He needed to face the encirclement by the Qing government and various challenges and pressures from the international community while also seeking understanding and support from the international community Cao [19].
Cultural and Educational Backwardness
After the victory of the revolution, Huang Xing realized the importance of culture and education for national development. However, at that time, China’s level of culture and education was relatively backward, and Huang Xing faced challenges in improving the national quality, cultivating talents, and enhancing skills. He was committed to promoting the development of education, science and technology, and cultural affairs, aiming to raise the knowledge level and cultural literacy of the people Liu [20].
Personal Health Issues
Long-term exposure to dangers, internal and external troubles, compromises, revolutionary struggles, and frontline battles severely damaged Huang Xing’s health. He suffered from various diseases, and his physical condition was worrying, which foreshadowed his premature death Xi [13].
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
Huang Xing had close relationships with several key figures during the process of China’s democratic revolution, forming an important chapter in the history of China’s democratic revolution. The cooperation and competition, support and opposition among them had a profound impact on the development of modern Chinese history. By studying Huang Xing’s relationships with key figures in the Chinese democratic revolution, we can better understand the complexity and diversity of this historical period Shi & Shi [5].
Sun Yat-sen
Sun Yat-sen was one of the founders and leaders of the Republic of China. Despite his early lack of prestige and some disreputable practices, as well as political disagreements and controversies with Huang Xing, Huang, committed to establishing a democratic republic, adopted a selfless ideology, refusing the position of Premier and consistently respecting, supporting, and upholding Sun Yat-sen’s prestige and status in the revolutionary organization. This noble morality and selfless dedication ensured the revolutionary organization and forces’ integrity, continuously influenced and changed Sun Yat-sen’s behavior, attitude, and ideology, consolidated Sun’s leadership position and prestige, and ultimately achieved the goal of a democratic republic, laying a solid foundation for the establishment of the Republic of China.
Tan Renfeng
A bourgeois democratic revolutionary at the end of the Qing Dynasty, early member and key figure of the Tongmenghui, played a significant role in persuading Li Yuanhong during the Wuchang Uprising. He co-founded the Central Bureau of the Tongmenghui with Song Jiaoren, serving as the Minister of General Affairs, and lamented that while Huang Xing was brought into the world, his early death left behind others who were old and unproductive.
Song Jiaoren
Song Jiaoren was one of the key leaders of the Kuomintang and a close comrade-in-arms of Huang Xing. They participated in numerous anti-Qing struggles and revolutionary activities together, forming a deep friendship. Song also provided substantial political support and assistance to Huang Xing.
Yu Youren
A renowned modern Chinese politician, calligrapher, poet, and elder statesman of the Kuomintang, who held positions including the presidency of the National Government. During the Xinhai Revolution, Yu Youren collaborated with Huang Xing and others in the struggle to overthrow the Qing dynasty, supporting and coordinating with each other to advance China’s modernization. He actively praised Huang Xing, expressing widespread sorrow over Huang’s premature death because Huang had both created and re-created the republic without having the chance to enjoy it.
Zhang Taiyan
A thinker, literary figure, and scholar, as well as Huang Xing’s teacher and friend. He profoundly influenced Huang academically and supported his revolutionary endeavors, providing significant support and assistance. Zhang actively praised Huang, stating that without Huang, there would be no Chinese democratic revolution or Republic of China, highlighting Huang’s crucial role in history.
Li Dazhao
One of the main founders of the Communist Party of China and a good friend of Huang Xing. They had close connections and cooperations in political ideology and revolutionary practice, making significant contributions to the establishment and development of the Communist Party of China.
Zhou Enlai
Zhou Enlai was one of the founding fathers and key leaders of the People’s Republic of China, as well as the nephew and student of Huang Xing, sharing a deep emotional bond. Zhou inherited Huang’s legacy and spirit, dedicating his life to the struggle for China’s national independence and people’s happiness.
Mao Zedong
Although Mao Zedong was the founder and leader of the People’s Republic of China, did not have a direct relationship with Huang Xing, they both focused on China’s national independence and social progress during the revolutionary period. Mao was deeply influenced by Huang’s thoughts and revolutionary activities, greatly admiring him and referring to Huang as a “great man” Mao [4], making high praises such as “Hunan has Huang Xing, thus China has a practical revolutionary” Mao [21]. In a sense, Huang provided important ideological and theoretical foundations for the Communist Party-led strategies of “encircling cities from the countryside,” “rural base areas,” and the agrarian revolutionary war.
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
Huang Xing’s leadership in the Chinese Democratic Revolution presents significant differences from contemporary global political movements, reflecting the distinct socio-cultural and ideological contexts of different historical periods, as well as the roles and contributions of individuals. These differences highlight the diversity and complexity in the development of human civilization Chen [6], Luo [15].
Historical Context
Huang Xing’s era was marked by a semi-colonial and semifeudal society in China, facing severe national crises and social issues. He actively organized uprisings and revolutions, advancing China’s democratic revolution, legal system construction, and modernization. In contrast, contemporary global political movements emerge against a backdrop of globalization and digitalization, addressing a more diverse and complex set of issues.
Ideology
Huang Xing’s thoughts and actions were deeply influenced by traditional Chinese culture, embodying strong nationalist and patriotic sentiments. Contemporary global political movements, however, are more influenced by ideologies such as Western liberalism and socialism, showcasing a broader spectrum of ideologies and values.
Social Foundation
During Huang Xing’s time, society was relatively closed and backward under feudal autocracy. Contemporary global political movements are closely tied to social structures and cultural traditions, with a broader and more diverse social base.
Goals and Methods
Huang Xing focused on strategy and tactics in his revolutionary endeavors, aiming to overthrow the Qing government through organizing and leading the masses. His methods included armed struggle, propaganda, and establishing bases. Today’s global political movements aim for rights, peace, and anti-war efforts, employing protests, civil disobedience, and social movements as their methods.
Impact Scope
Huang Xing’s impact was primarily within the domestic context of his time, significantly influencing China’s historical trajectory. While he also interacted with revolutionary leaders related to Russia, influencing the occurrence and success of the October Revolution Yu [22], contemporary global political movements have a wider global reach, impacting a more diverse array of areas.
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
Epilogue
Some say history is written by the victors or for political purposes, but history itself, being a record of past events, is objective and immutable. The essence, value, and significance of history lie in its comprehensive and vivid reenactment of facts, situations, and characters, serving as a testament to the rise and fall of civilizations. It acts as a mirror, offering objective and truthful evaluations, regardless of correctness or errors. History should not leave the perennial second-place forever in sorrow and solitude without a chance for redemption. The truth of history often lies buried under the dust of time and the selective amnesia of some historians. Revealing historical truths is not about dwelling on right or wrong but understanding people, events, and their evolution more fully and accurately, ensuring that historical figures, who shed both blood and tears, are remembered Stearns & Collins [23]. This is the purpose and significance of this review [24-27].
- Review Article
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Huang Xing’s Historical Role, Impact, and Contributions
- Challenges Faced by Huang Xing
- Huang Xing and His Relationships with Key Figures of His Time
- Comparison Between the Chinese Democratic Revolution and Contemporary Global Political Movements
- Epilogue
- References
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