Ep 5. Mao: China's Chairman of Death

In Evolution of Evil season 2 episode 5, viewers are taken on a journey into the life of one of the most controversial and enigmatic figures in Chinese history - Mao Zedong. As the founder of the People's Republic of China, Mao is revered by many as a hero who overthrew the oppressive forces of the ruling class and brought about a new era of prosperity and equality for the Chinese people. However, Mao's reign was also characterized by brutal repression, authoritarianism, and violence on a massive scale.

The episode explores Mao's early life and how he rose to power within the Chinese Communist Party, including his key role in the Long March and his eventual victory in the Chinese Civil War. Viewers are given insights into Mao's political philosophy, including his rejection of traditional Marxist ideals and his insistence on the primacy of the rural peasantry over urban workers.

As Mao consolidates his grip on power in the 1950s and 1960s, viewers witness the transformation of China into a socialist state with unique characteristics. The episode delves into the Great Leap Forward, Mao's ambitious plan to modernize China's economy and society through collectivization and industrialization. However, the plan resulted in widespread famine and economic devastation, leading to the deaths of millions of Chinese citizens.

The second half of the episode focuses on the Cultural Revolution, Mao's campaign to eliminate opposition and dissent within the Chinese Communist Party and society at large. Viewers are given a glimpse into the chaos and violence that characterized this period, including the Red Guards' attacks on intellectuals, party officials, and cultural artifacts. The episode also explores Mao's personality cult and his use of propaganda to build a cult of personality around himself.

The episode ends with an examination of Mao's legacy, including his impact on Chinese society, politics, and ideology. Viewers are left to ponder the question of whether Mao was a visionary leader who brought about much-needed reform or a ruthless dictator responsible for the deaths of millions of people.

Overall, Mao: China's Chairman of Death is a thought-provoking episode that explores the life of one of the most complex and controversial figures in Chinese history. Through interviews with scholars and historians, as well as archival footage and images, viewers are given a nuanced and multifaceted portrait of Mao Zedong and his legacy.