"The Chinese Revolution is long in the making, an unfolding process that has spanned most of the twentieth century. This comprehensive and ready-reference guide will help students and interested readers to understand the process and the events that have contributed to the ongoing revolution in the most populous nation on earth. Seven essays provide information and analysis of the revolution from the first decades of this century through 1998. Ready-reference components include lengthy biographical sketches of the seventeen most important and influential leaders in twentieth-century Chinese history, and the text of nine primary documents provides direct access to their words, which shaped the Revolution. A timeline of significant events, a glossary of selected terms, and an annotated bibliography of suggested readings for students add value to the guide."--Jacket.

The Chinese revolution: an overview -- Basic features of Mao Zedong thought -- Redirecting the revolution: the reform ideology of deng Xiaoping -- One nation, many peoples: han and non-han in the people's republic of China -- Enemies and friends: China, the Soviet Union, and the United States -- Greater China: the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan -- Interpreting China's revolution: impact and consequences.