Li Peng's Rise to Power in 1987

Name: Li Peng's Rise to Power in 1987
Start: 1928-11-24
Location: Unspecified

Li Peng Succeeds Zhao Ziyang as Premier of the People's Republic of China

Background on Li Peng

Li Peng, born on October 20, 1928, in the city of Chengdu, Sichuan province, emerged as a significant figure in China’s political landscape. Serving as the premier from 1987 to 1998, he was known for his strong ties to the hardline factions within the Chinese Communist Party.

Zhao Ziyang's Tenure

Prior to Li Peng, Zhao Ziyang held the title of Premier. His term was marked by economic reform and a push towards greater openness—a trajectory that Li would later oppose. Zhao’s softer approach to governance made him popular among the youth and intellectuals, setting a stark contrast to Li’s policies.

The Transition of Power in 1987

Political Landscape in 1987

When Li Peng ascended to the premiership on November 18, 1987, he took over during a time of tension and dissatisfaction among the populace regarding economic disparities. The transition was seen as a consolidation of power by the conservative faction of the Communist Party, which favored stricter control over the public and continued economic reform at a slower pace.

Li Peng's Leadership Style

Li Peng's administration was characterized by a focus on stability, prioritizing control over political and social unrest. This approach would come under serious scrutiny, especially with the onset of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, where he played a central role in the government's crackdown on demonstrators.

Legacy and Impact

Controversial Decisions by Li Peng

Li's tenure is heavily scrutinized for the events that unfolded during the Tiananmen Square protests. His decision to enforce martial law has left a lasting impact on China’s political landscape and societal relations. This move has often been regarded as a reversal of the progressive policies initiated by Zhao Ziyang.

Economic Policies Under Li Peng

Despite his controversial image, Li Peng oversaw significant economic growth during his time as Premier, focusing on state-led development. However, critics argue that his rigid political approach stunted potential democratic reforms within the country.

Fun Fact

Li Peng's Engineering Background

Interestingly, before entering politics, Li Peng earned a degree in hydroelectric engineering, which played a role in his later initiatives to develop China’s infrastructure and energy projects, notably the Three Gorges Dam project.