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Communism in China

Driving Question: Why did communism take root in China and how did that have global ramifications?

Why did communism rise in China, and how did it change the world? This lesson looks at revolution, reform, and the ripple effects of one of history’s biggest power shifts.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Use evidence to evaluate how China’s communist revolution was shaped by global conflicts and anti-imperialist struggles.
  2. Use quick-sourcing skills to assess the causes and consequences of the spread of communist states in this period.
STEP 1

Opener: Communism in China

Teaching Tools

To teach this lesson step, refer to page 2 of the Lesson 8.6 Teaching Guide Locked .

See the thread Mao, Mangoes, and China’s Cultural Revolution External link for ideas for teaching the Chinese Communist Revolution.

China was a major player in the Cold War and decolonization struggles of this period. Use image analysis to begin engaging with the Chinese Communist Revolution.

STEP 2

Chinese Communist Revolution

Teaching Tools

To teach this lesson step, refer to page 3 of the Lesson 8.6 Teaching Guide Locked .

Looking for more support using video in the classroom? Check out the blog post Engaging students with video.

Examine how Mao Zedong launched the Cultural Revolution to reshape Chinese society and protect communist ideals. Through an article and video, you will explore internal politics, Cold War pressures, and anti-imperialist goals.

Chinese Communist Revolution in a Global Perspective External link

This video looks at the Chinese Communist Revolution as a transformational event in both Chinese history and the global history of revolutions.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.
STEP 3

Closer: Communism in China

Teaching Tools

To teach this lesson step, refer to page 5 of the Lesson 8.6 Teaching Guide Locked .

Do you (or your students) need a frames refresher? Check out the World History Frames Guide.

Now that you’ve explored the Chinese Communist Revolution, it’s time to consider how the frames can help us understand the effects of this ideology more broadly.

Extension Materials
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This extension gives you a chance to work with sources, examine global responses to communism, and connect China’s revolution to broader Cold War dynamics.