Chapters 15-18; Epilogue Summary and Analysis

Chapter 15: Tiananmen; American Dilemmas

1989 was a turbulent year. The Soviet Union showed signs of dissolution which led to the destruction of the Berlin Wall. China seemed to remain stable until the riots broke out in Tiananmen Square. Americans were shocked at the blatant violation of human rights. Newly elected President George H.W. Bush was faced with some very difficult decisions.

The Fang Lizhi Controversy

Physicist Fang Lizhi had become an icon of the symbol of the division between the US and China.

The 12- and 24-Character Statements

In 1990, Deng began to withdraw from public life - the first Chinese leader to do so in many years.

Chapter 16: What Kind of Reform? Deng's Southern Tour

After Deng's retirement, it became clear that no one had a clear plan on how to reform China.

Chapter 17: A Roller Coaster...