Propaganda in Mao's China

As we approach a moment in time where many states around the world are turning their backs on democracy in favor of authoritarianism it is important that we understand the methods that authoritarian states use to establish and maintain their rule. One example of such a state is the Chinese state under Mao Zedong.

An integral part of the establishing of Maoist China was the use of propaganda. Posters, film, opera, theater, speeches, official state media, radio all operated to spread the party line. Today you will explore various forms of propaganda, noting themes that are consistently employed in text and speech, posters and visual arts, and music, film, and performing arts. This will culminate in the production of a form of propaganda of your own and an argument that explains how your piece would have fit the party's expectations.

Propaganda is one sided information intentionally spread to shape public behavior and opinion (Museum of History and Holocaust Education, KSU).