Ye Jianying, Chinese general and politician, Head of State of the People's Republic of China (d. 1986)

Ye Jianying (simplified Chinese: 叶剑英; traditional Chinese: 葉劍英; born April 28, 1897; died October 22, 1986) was a towering figure in 20th-century Chinese history, a dedicated communist revolutionary, a seasoned politician, and a military strategist whose influence shaped the People's Republic of China during its foundational years and critical turning points. His journey from an early revolutionary to one of the nation's most respected elder statesmen exemplifies a life deeply intertwined with the destiny of modern China.

A Revolutionary's Path and the Birth of the PLA

Born in Meixian, Guangdong province, Ye Jianying's early years were marked by a fervent commitment to revolutionary ideals. He joined the Chinese Communist Party in 1927, already having served in key military and political roles, including as an instructor at the Whampoa Military Academy, a prestigious institution that trained many of China's future military and political leaders. His exceptional military acumen was evident throughout the tumultuous decades of the Chinese revolution. He participated in crucial campaigns of the Chinese Civil War and the arduous Long March, earning a reputation for strategic insight and unwavering loyalty. These contributions culminated in his recognition as one of the Ten Marshals of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1955, an esteemed group of military leaders bestowed with the highest rank for their pivotal roles in the establishment of the People's Republic of China.

The Critical Role in Ending the Cultural Revolution

Perhaps Ye Jianying's most decisive moment arrived in 1976. As one of the most senior and respected military leaders, he played the pivotal role in orchestrating the swift and largely bloodless coup that dismantled the radical political faction known as the "Gang of Four." This group, comprising Jiang Qing (Mao Zedong's widow) and her associates, had wielded immense power during the chaotic years of the Cultural Revolution, pushing China to the brink of social and political collapse with their extreme policies and persecutions. Ye Jianying's strategic leadership and the loyalty he commanded within the military were instrumental in their arrest, effectively bringing an end to the tumultuous decade-long Cultural Revolution and paving the way for a new era of reform and stability in China.

Supporting Deng Xiaoping and National Leadership

Following the fall of the Gang of Four, China entered a period of intense political transition and leadership struggle. Ye Jianying emerged as a crucial supporter of Deng Xiaoping, advocating for Deng's return to power and his vision for economic reform and opening up. This support was instrumental in Deng's eventual triumph over Hua Guofeng, who had initially succeeded Mao Zedong but lacked the political clout and strategic vision to lead China out of its post-Cultural Revolution predicament. After Deng Xiaoping solidified his leadership, Ye Jianying continued to serve the nation at the highest level. From 1978 to 1983, he held the esteemed position of Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. In this capacity, he functioned as China's de facto head of state, symbolizing continuity and stability during a period of profound change and reform. His leadership during this critical juncture helped to institutionalize the new political order and provided crucial support for Deng's reforms.

Legacy

Ye Jianying retired from his official posts in 1983 due to advanced age, passing away three years later at 89. His legacy endures as a steadfast revolutionary, a skilled military strategist, and a political elder who made indispensable contributions to the founding of the People's Republic of China, the dramatic conclusion of the Cultural Revolution, and the subsequent initiation of the reform and opening-up era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ye Jianying

Who was Ye Jianying?

Ye Jianying was a prominent Chinese communist revolutionary leader, politician, and military strategist. He was one of the ten founding Marshals of the People's Liberation Army and played a crucial role in shaping modern China, particularly in ending the Cultural Revolution and supporting Deng Xiaoping's reforms.

What was the significance of being one of the "Ten Marshals"?

The "Ten Marshals" was an honorific title bestowed in 1955 upon ten eminent military leaders of the People's Liberation Army who had made exceptional contributions to the founding and establishment of the People's Republic of China. It represented the highest military recognition for their historical roles and strategic brilliance during the revolutionary wars.

How did Ye Jianying contribute to ending the Cultural Revolution?

In 1976, Ye Jianying, as the most senior and respected military leader, was the principal architect and top military figure in the coup that led to the arrest of the "Gang of Four." This swift action effectively ended the chaotic and destructive Cultural Revolution, which had plagued China for a decade, and opened the way for new political leadership.

What was his relationship with Deng Xiaoping?

Ye Jianying was a key and steadfast supporter of Deng Xiaoping. After the fall of the Gang of Four, he critically backed Deng in his power struggle against Hua Guofeng, ensuring Deng's return to central leadership and providing vital military and political backing for Deng's subsequent economic reforms and open-door policies.

What role did Ye Jianying play as head of state?

From 1978 to 1983, Ye Jianying served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. In this capacity, he functioned as China's de facto head of state, symbolizing national unity and providing a stable political presence during a period of significant post-Cultural Revolution reforms and the consolidation of Deng Xiaoping's leadership.