History of Xi Jinping

Xi Jinping, the current paramount leader of the People's Republic of China, has become one of the most influential politicians in the 21st century. His journey to the pinnacle of Chinese political power is as complex as it is extraordinary, reflecting the convoluted landscape of China's contemporary political scene.

### Early Life and Background

Xi Jinping was born on June 15, 1953, into a prominent Chinese political family. His father, Xi Zhongxun, was a revolutionary hero and a key figure in the Communist Party's rise to power. However, the Xi family fell from grace during the Cultural Revolution in the late 1960s, when Xi Zhongxun was purged from the party and his family was sent to the countryside. This tumultuous period shaped Xi Jinping's early years, as he spent his formative years experiencing both privilege and persecution.

Despite these challenges, Xi Jinping showed resilience and a commitment to the Communist cause. He joined the Communist Youth League in 1971 and became a member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1974. He pursued education with the same vigor, eventually earning a chemical engineering degree from Tsinghua University in Beijing.

### Climb Through Political Ranks

After his education, Xi began his political career in earnest. His first significant position was as a secretary to Geng Biao, then vice premier and secretary-general of the Central Military Commission. This role gave Xi insight into the workings of China's military and positioned him within a critical power base of Chinese politics.

His career then took him through a series of progressively significant positions across various Chinese provinces. Xi developed a reputation for clean governance, pragmatic leadership, and economic competence, especially during his time as the party chief of Zhejiang province. It was in these local roles that Xi demonstrated his ability to navigate the nuances of China's political landscape, often balancing reformist and conservative elements.

### Rise to Prominence

Xi's big break came in 2007 when he was appointed to the Politburo Standing Committee of the CPC, China's top decision-making body. This promotion was unexpected by many, as Xi was considered less known on the national stage compared to other possible candidates. However, his appointment signaled to many his potential as a future leader.

In 2012, Xi Jinping was appointed General Secretary of the CPC and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, effectively marking his ascent to leadership of China. In March 2013, he became President of the People's Republic of China. During this period, Xi also began solidifying his power within the party, sidestepping potential rivals and establishing himself as the core leader.

### Policy and Governance

Xi Jinping's leadership of China has been characterized by significant policies both domestically and internationally. Domestically, he launched extensive anti-corruption campaigns, which he presented as efforts to cleanse the party but were also seen as targeting political adversaries. Under Xi, this has led to the downfall of many high-profile officials, sending shockwaves through the Chinese party apparatus.

His leadership also emphasizes the importance of the CPC as central to China's development and stability. He frequently advocates for the "Chinese Dream," aiming for national rejuvenation by focusing on modernization and economic development.

Xi's tenure has also seen an increase in authoritarian control, with heightened censorship, a robust surveillance state, and a reduction in civil liberties. The introduction of "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" into the party constitution enshrined his ideology alongside Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, highlighting his significant impact on the party's direction and policies.

### International Influence

Internationally, Xi has sought to position China as a dominant global player. His Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at global infrastructure development, is often viewed as a method of extending China's influence worldwide. This initiative has been both a strategic maneuver and a response to global economic challenges as China seeks to secure new markets and resources.

Xi's China has also taken a more assertive stance in territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea. His leadership reflects a strong nationalism and a willingness to challenge Western hegemony, often resulting in tense U.S.-China relations.

### Recent Developments

In 2018, China removed the constitutional limit on presidential terms, effectively allowing Xi Jinping to remain in power indefinitely. This move signaled an era of significant political consolidation, drawing both domestic and international criticism for veering towards authoritarianism.

Xi Jinping's leadership continues to shape China significantly. His tenure marks a departure from the collective leadership model that characterized Chinese politics following Mao. Through strategic maneuvering, rigorous discipline enforcement, and ideological campaigns, he has secured his place not just as a leader of China, but as a defining figure in its history.

Xi Jinping's story reflects not only his personal triumphs and challenges but also the broader narrative of modern China's political evolution. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of global politics and internal transformation, Xi's legacy will undoubtedly remain a point of both admiration and contention.