In the complex and often opaque world of Chinese politics, few figures stand out as prominently as Xi Jinping, the current leader of China and a key player on the global stage. However, understanding Xi Jinping requires delving into the life and legacy of his father, Xi Zhongxun, a revolutionary figure in his own right who significantly shaped the course of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Xi Zhongxun, who lived from 1913 to 2002, dedicated over seventy years of his life to the Party, consistently aligning himself with its shifting ideologies and leadership.

The elder Xi was a close ally of prominent leaders such as Zhou Enlai and Hu Yaobang. His early contributions to the Chinese revolution included pivotal roles during critical moments in the Party's history. Notably, he was instrumental in establishing the Communist base area that served as a sanctuary for Mao Zedong in 1935a move that would ultimately help solidify Mao's power in the years to come.

One of Xi Zhongxun's significant legacies was his role in initiating the Special Economic Zones, a hallmark of Chinas reform era following Maos death. This policy not only marked a turning point in China's economic strategy but also laid the groundwork for the rapid growth that has characterized the country's economy in recent decades.

Beyond economic reform, Xi Zhongxun played a crucial role in the Party's efforts to engage with various ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Uyghurs, and the people of Taiwan. His approach to these sensitive issues reflected a broader strategy of the CCP to foster unity while maintaining control over the diverse population of China. However, his legacy is not without controversy; in the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, he faced a moral dilemma. Initially, he advocated for restraint and a non-violent response, but under pressure from the Party, he ultimately supported the crackdown on the protesters, a decision that would haunt him and the Party for years.

The recently released biography, The Party's Interests Come First, is the first comprehensive English-language account of Xi Zhongxun's life and contributions. Authored by Joseph Torigian, this biography not only chronicles the sweeping narrative of the Chinese revolution and the early decades of the People's Republic of China but also provides an intimate exploration of identity within the confines of a powerful political structure. Torigian utilizes a wealth of resources, including newly unearthed documents, personal interviews, diaries, and various periodicals, to paint a vivid portrait of a man who constantly navigated the tension between personal convictions and the demands of the Party.

Through the lens of Xi Jinping's father, readers gain insight into the extraordinary organizational and ideological might of the CCP, as well as the significant human cost associated with its governance. This biography serves as a critical resource for understanding not only Xi Zhongxuns life but also the broader implications of his legacy on modern Chinese politics.

BUY NOW to explore this compelling account of one of China's most influential political figures and the father of its current leader.