Case Study: China

1966-1976

Chinese "Cultural Revolution"

• Decade-long period of political and social chaos by Mao Zedong's bid to use the Chinese masses to reassert his control over Communist party.
• End with Mao's death
• Cultural Revolution crippled economy, ruined millions of lives and thrust China into 10 years of turmoil, bloodshed, hunger and stagnation. 
• After violence had ended its rulers decided it was a catastrophe. 

1978

"Open Door Policy" 

• New leader Deng Xiaping radically changed outlook to embrace globalisation while continuing under one-party authoritarian rule. 
• Began with rural reforms such as allowing farmers to make small profits."One-child policy" also introduced to try and slow population growth. 
• Began transition to increasingly industrial and urban nation. Over next 30 years largest migration in human history. 300 million people…