Mao Zedong (MSH)

Mao Zedong was born into a peasant family on December 26, 1893, in Xiangtan, Hunan Province. He had limited education before the 1911 Revolution broke out when he was only 18 years old. He volunteered with the nascent Republican Army and rose rapidly through the ranks. It was during this time that the Mao legends first began to spread, of his mystical powers and awesome strength. Between military campaigns, Mao educated himself on the changing political philosophies and sciences of the West. He was able to converse with some of the greatest minds in China during his political missions to Beijing and Shanghai. Despite his young age, Sun Yatsen saw Mao as the only Revolutionary leader who could counter the influence of the Warlord military. Mao was elected Chairman of the People's Party, although this was largely honorary, due to Mao's military responsibilities. [[Media:1919.jpg]]