China's current leader, Xi Jinping, is not only one of the most powerful figures on the global stage but also one of the most enigmatic. Understanding Xi Jinping requires delving into the complex legacy of his father, Xi Zhongxun (19132002), whose contributions to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) were both profound and multifaceted. Xi Zhongxun dedicated over seventy years of his life to the party, during which he worked alongside influential leaders such as Zhou Enlai and Hu Yaobang. His political career was instrumental in shaping the course of modern China.

Xi Zhongxun played a pivotal role in several historical events, including the establishment of the Communist base area that was crucial for Mao Zedong during the Long March in 1935. This base was vital for the survival of the Communist movement at a time when it faced significant challenges. Moreover, he was a key architect of the Special Economic Zones, which were implemented in the late 20th century, significantly transforming China's economy and ushering in the era of reform following Mao's death in 1976. These zones marked the beginning of Chinas shift towards a more market-oriented economy, contributing to its rapid growth and development.

Throughout his career, Xi Zhongxun was also heavily involved in the Partys United Front work, which aimed to manage relationships with various ethnic minorities such as Tibetans and Uyghurs, and to engage with Taiwanese communities. His approach was often characterized by a mix of outreach and maintaining strict party loyalty, reflecting the complexities of governing a diverse nation like China.

Interestingly, during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, Xi Zhongxun initially advocated for a more moderate response, seeking to prevent bloodshed. However, as the situation escalated, he ultimately supported the party's decision to quell the protests forcefully, showcasing the difficult balance party officials often had to strike between personal beliefs and party loyalty.

The recent biography titled The Party's Interests Come First is the first comprehensive English-language account of Xi Zhongxun's life and legacy. Authored by Joseph Torigian, this work not only chronicles the sweeping narrative of the Chinese revolution and the formative years of the People's Republic of China but also offers a deeply personal insight into the struggles of defining one's identity against the backdrop of a powerful political regime. Drawing from a rich tapestry of new documents, personal interviews, diaries, and periodicals, Torigian presents Xi Zhongxun's life as a testament to the challenges of reconciling personal beliefs with the demands of the CCP.

Through the lens of Xi Jinping's father, readers gain a clearer understanding of the CCP's extraordinary organizational and ideological power, as well as the immense human suffering often associated with its governance. This biography not only sheds light on the complexities of political leadership in China but also invites readers to reflect on the human cost of political decisions.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese politics and the forces that have shaped its contemporary landscape, CLICK HERE TO BUY this intriguing biography that intertwines personal and political narratives.