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From Dust to Dawn: My Grandfather and the Soul of a Nation
By Peng SUNThe 20th century was a tumultuous era for China, marked by profound social upheavals, natural calamities, and significant population shifts. Through the lens of my grandfather's life—a narrative woven with adversity, migration, and unwavering determination—we can glimpse the broader tapestry of a nation's struggle and resurgence.Fleeing the Ravages of Famine in HebeiMy grandfather's early years were shadowed by the relentless hardships that plagued Hebei Province. Born in 1931 in what is now Weixian County, Handan City, he was the youngest of three sons in a family striving to navigate the complexities of a nation in flux. His father, originally from Nanjing, had served in a governmental role during the Republic of China era. However, political shifts necessitated a relocation to Hebei, where he transitioned from bureaucratic duties to the agrarian life of a farmer.(The original first-generation card of my late grandfather, Tian Xiaosan, issued in 1987.)The Hebei region, during the early decades of the 20th century, was a crucible of ecological disasters. Between 1912 and 1949, the province was besieged by a relentless cycle of floods, droughts, and locust infestations. These calamities were not isolated incidents; they recurred with alarming frequency, leading to widespread crop failures and famine. The devastation was so pervasive that, on average, one-third of Hebei's counties faced some form of natural disaster annually during this period.The Great Famine that gripped Hebei had cascading effects beyond the immediate scarcity of food. Economically, it crippled local markets and sent grain prices soaring, plunging communities into deeper poverty. Socially, the desperation gave rise to banditry, as individuals resorted to extreme measures for survival. Mass migrations became commonplace, with countless families abandoning their ancestral homes in search of sustenance and safety.In the face of such adversity, my great-grandfather made the heartrending decision to uproot his family. Enticed by accounts of Shanxi Province's relative stability and agricultural promise, he joined the throngs of refugees moving westward. The journey was arduous, marked by uncertainty and the constant specter of hardship. Yet, it was a testament to the resilience and fortitude that would come to define my grandfather's life.Establishing New Roots in ShanxiBy 1932, the family found refuge in Pingyang, now known as Linfen City in Shanxi Province. They sought shelter with a local landlord, a common practice for displaced families seeking stability. However, the challenges of resettlement were manifold. Providing for three children proved insurmountable, leading my great-grandfather to make the agonizing choice of sending his eldest son to be raised by another family—a separation that resulted in permanent estrangement.The Second Sino-Japanese War further fragmented the family. My grandfather's second brother enlisted to resist the Japanese invasion, ultimately sacrificing his life for the nation. Amidst these personal tragedies, both my great-grandparents succumbed to illness, leaving my grandfather orphaned in a village far from his origins.Yet, the community in Linfen embraced him. Villagers extended kindness, offering food and support to the young boy navigating life alone. From these humble and challenging beginnings, my grandfather's journey was emblematic of a generation's perseverance.Contributing to a Nation's RebirthThe establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949 ushered in an era of reconstruction and industrialization. Shanxi Province, endowed with rich coal reserves, emerged as a linchpin in the nation's industrial ambitions. Cities like Taiyuan became epicenters of coal, iron, and chemical production, fueling China's drive toward modernization. Amid this transformative landscape, my grandfather matured into adulthood. He secured employment as a carpenter with the Jinnan Special Zone Engineering Company. Embracing the ethos of national rejuvenation, he immersed himself in mastering construction techniques. His dedication bore fruit as he ascended to the rank of an eighth-grade carpenter, earning accolades such as Model Worker of Shanxi Province. His contributions were instrumental in the erection of pivotal infrastructures, including the Linfen Power Plant, Linfen Paper Mill, and Linfen Textile Mill.The early 1960s presented renewed challenges. Natural disasters, compounded by political movements like the "Three Years of Famine and Repayment of Debts," led to widespread food shortages. Despite these scarcities, my grandfather exhibited unparalleled generosity. Recollections from my mother paint a vivid picture:"During those trying times, with food supplies dwindling, your grandfather cultivated grains and beans on vacant land near his workplace. Despite our own needs, he shared a bag of millet with a coworker's family teetering on the brink of starvation. Years later, that coworker returned with a large sack of flour, a gesture of enduring gratitude."Such acts of selflessness were not anomalies but rather reflections of his intrinsic character. Though he lacked formal education, my grandfather was an eager participant in the "Mass Literacy Campaign," striving to uplift himself and those around him. His inventive spirit led to numerous technological innovations in construction. His integrity shone brightly during crises, notably in 1962 when a construction site collapse saw him prioritizing others' safety over his own, resulting in injuries that left lasting impairments.Reflecting on a Legacy Intertwined with a Nation's JourneyMy grandfather's life narrative is more than a personal history; it is a microcosm of China's 20th-century odyssey. His experiences encapsulate the trials faced by countless individuals who, amidst upheavals and hardships, contributed to the nation's resilience and resurgence.The mass migrations, the collective endeavors toward industrialization, and the communal spirit of mutual aid were not mere historical footnotes but foundational elements that propelled China into the 21st century. Understanding these personal stories enriches our comprehension of the broader socio-historical currents that have shaped modern China.In honoring my grandfather's legacy, we pay tribute to a generation whose sacrifices and tenacity laid the bedrock for the nation's contemporary achievements. Their stories, woven together, form the rich tapestry of China's enduring spirit and relentless pursuit of progress.About the Author: Peng SUN, a Chinese-Canadian scholar (Ph.D., b. October 1982), specializes in intercultural studies, globalization, culture and society, population and migration, as well as talent and education development.
Talent Cultivation and Future Development
The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China marks a pivotal moment for the nation's journey towards comprehensive socialist modernization and the realization of the second centenary goal. This congress presents a unique opportunity to gain insights into talent cultivation and its significance for future development in China. By exploring the Party's vision and strategies outlined during the congress, this article aims to provide a deeper understanding of how talent cultivation can contribute to the overall progress of the country.Importance of Talent CultivationTalent plays a fundamental and transformative role in driving national development. This section delves into the multifaceted contributions made by highly skilled individuals to the economic, social, and cultural advancement of a nation. By effectively harnessing and nurturing talent, countries can tap into the collective potential of their citizens and foster sustainable growth across various domains.This subsection explores the intrinsic connection between talent cultivation and China's modernization goals. It examines how cultivating a skilled workforce capable of adapting to changing circumstances and driving innovation becomes a prerequisite for achieving the country's overarching vision of becoming a prosperous and modernized socialist nation. By nurturing talents in alignment with the principles of socialism with Chinese characteristics, China can propel its long-term aspirations and foster sustainable development.With globalization and rapid technological advancements, the global landscape is undergoing profound transformations. This subsection emphasizes the significance of talent cultivation in responding to these changes. It highlights the need for China to develop a pool of adaptable and globally competitive talents to maintain its position in the international arena. By nurturing talents who possess a global perspective and cross-cultural competence, China can effectively contribute to and shape the global landscape.Insights from the 20th National CongressThis section delves into the specific policies and strategies outlined in the 20th National Congress for talent cultivation. It examines the comprehensive framework established by the Party to foster talent development across various sectors, including education, research, and industry. The emphasis is placed on providing a conducive environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and a spirit of innovation.Innovation and entrepreneurship are essential drivers of economic growth and societal advancement. This subsection explores the congress's focus on fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. It highlights the importance of promoting research and development activities, supporting startups, and creating a favorable ecosystem for entrepreneurial endeavors. By cultivating an environment that encourages innovation, China can harness the potential of its talents and foster technological breakthroughs.In addition to technical skills and knowledge, ethical and social responsibility are crucial aspects of talent development. This subsection discusses the congress's emphasis on cultivating talents who are not only competent in their respective fields but also possess a strong sense of social responsibility, ethical conduct, and cultural awareness. It explores the importance of fostering well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society and address the ethical challenges of the modern world.Nurturing High-Quality TalentsEducation plays a vital role in nurturing high-quality talents. This section examines the congress's focus on education reforms, with particular attention to enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. It explores the measures and initiatives aimed at cultivating a solid foundation of knowledge and skills among students, equipping them for future challenges and opportunities in rapidly evolving fields.Global talent is a valuable resource for national development. This subsection discusses the strategies outlined in the congress to attract and retain global talent in China. It examines the measures aimed at creating an open and inclusive environment that welcomes international talents and fosters cross-cultural collaboration. By attracting global talent, China can benefit from diverse perspectives and experiences that contribute to innovation and knowledge exchange.Vocational education and skills training play a crucial role in addressing the demand for a skilled workforce. This subsection explores the congress's focus on strengthening vocational education, promoting technical skills training, and bridging the gap between education and industry. It highlights the importance of providing diverse pathways for talent development to meet the evolving needs of the economy and foster inclusive growth.Driving Societal Advancement and InnovationTechnological advancement is a key driver of societal progress. This section examines the role of talents in advancing technology, fostering innovation, and driving industrial transformation. It explores the congress's initiatives to support research and development, cultivate interdisciplinary collaborations, and leverage emerging technologies for the benefit of society. By harnessing the potential of talents, China can advance in key technological domains and ensure sustainable and inclusive development.Collaborative research and development efforts are instrumental in tackling complex challenges and driving innovation. This subsection discusses the congress's emphasis on fostering partnerships between academia, industry, and research institutions. It explores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange in addressing societal needs and driving sustainable development. By promoting collaborative research and development, China can leverage collective expertise and resources to achieve breakthroughs in various fields.An enabling environment is crucial for nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. This subsection examines the congress's focus on creating a supportive ecosystem that encourages risk-taking, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. It explores the policies and measures aimed at removing barriers, providing funding support, and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By creating a favorable environment, China can cultivate an atmosphere conducive to innovation, entrepreneurship, and the realization of transformative ideas.The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China provides invaluable insights into talent cultivation and its significance for future development. By aligning talent cultivation with the principles of socialism with Chinese characteristics, China can foster a skilled and innovative workforce capable of driving sustainable development. It is essential to implement the policies and strategies outlined in the congress to fully harness the potential of talents and propel the nation towards its ambitious goals. Through a comprehensive and strategic approach to talent cultivation, China can position itself as a global leader in innovation and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.
