Jiang Qing

Date of Birth: March 19, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: May 14, 1991

Biography

Jiang Qing, born Li Shumeng, was a significant figure in the Chinese Communist Party and the wife of Mao Zedong. Born on March 19, 1914, in Zhucheng, Shandong Province, Jiang Qing is best known for her role during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), where she was a leading member of the Gang of Four. Before her political career, she was an actress and participated in the Chinese film industry under the stage name Lan Ping. Jiang’s involvement in politics began in earnest after her marriage to Mao Zedong in 1938. She was instrumental in the propagation of Maoist ideology and played a key role in cultural policies that aimed to align arts and literature with the Communist Party’s goals. After Mao’s death in 1976, Jiang Qing was arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment in 1981 for her role in the Cultural Revolution. She died in 1991 under controversial circumstances, with reports suggesting suicide.

5 Interesting Facts about Jiang Qing

1. Jiang Qing was initially an actress in the Shanghai film industry before joining the Communist Party.

2. She was a central figure in the Gang of Four, a political faction that wielded significant power during the Cultural Revolution.

3. Jiang Qing was known for her strict censorship and control over Chinese art and culture, pushing for works that glorified the Communist Party.

4. She was married to Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People’s Republic of China.

5. Jiang Qing was sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in the Cultural Revolution but reportedly committed suicide in 1991.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jiang Qing

1. “I was Chairman Mao’s dog. Whoever he told me to bite, I bit.”

2. “Revolution is not a dinner party, nor an essay, nor a painting, nor a piece of embroidery. It cannot be so refined, so leisurely and gentle.”

3. “The arts must serve the interests of the workers, peasants, and soldiers.”

4. “I am the flag bearer of Chairman Mao’s thoughts.”

5. “We must smash the old world and build a new one.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Jiang Qing’s net worth is not well documented, but as a high-ranking member of the Communist Party, she had access to significant resources and influence.