July 1 marks the 103rd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the driving force behind one of the world's most populous nations' journey towards rejuvenation through a uniquely Chinese path to modernization.
Established in 1921, the CPC emerged during a tumultuous period when China was grappling with internal strife and external pressures from foreign powers. The legacy of the Opium Wars had left China's traditional political and socioeconomic structures in disarray, prompting many patriots to seek modernization solutions.
While the West offered various models, early Chinese communists recognized that a Western blueprint wouldn't align with China's specific conditions. They concluded that true modernization required a profound social revolution, emphasizing national independence and the liberation of the Chinese people.
Under CPC leadership, China underwent the new-democratic revolution, transforming from a semi-colonial, semi-feudal society into a nation where the people governed the country. This foundational shift set the stage for China's modernization endeavors.
Following the establishment of New China in 1949, the CPC steered the nation through significant socialist construction efforts, laying the institutional groundwork necessary for China's distinct path to modernization.
The pivotal moment came in 1978 with the launch of the reform and opening-up policy. Spearheaded by Deng Xiaoping, this historic decision prioritized economic development and introduced the concept of \"Chinese-style modernization.\" By integrating the socialist system with a market economy, China entered a new era of reform and rapid growth.
These bold explorations paid off, propelling China to become the world's second-largest economy. The nation's manufacturing sector reached unprecedented scales, earning China the title of the world's largest manufacturer and creating an economic miracle that has significantly impacted global markets.
Today, as the CPC celebrates over a century of leadership, China's journey of modernization continues to shape its role on the global stage, influencing international business, technology innovation, and economic trends worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
