Mao's Cultural Revolution Legacy Examined 50 Years After His Death

Fifty years after Mao Zedong's death, his ideology is experiencing a resurgence, including in the West. Sixty years ago, Mao launched the Cultural Revolution, which began with the killing of teacher Bian Zhongyun by her own students. The dream of creating a new man also inspired Western leftists, who often overlooked the murderous consequences. The article, published by NZZ, reflects on this legacy. It notes that Mao remains a significant figure, despite what are described as 'fucking excesses'—a phrase attributed to a 'great leader.' The piece does not specify current events or exhibitions, but it highlights the ongoing relevance of Mao's ideas and the cultural revolution's impact. The source is a feuilleton article from NZZ, dated around the 50th anniversary of Mao's death (2026). It discusses how the Cultural Revolution's initial victim was a teacher, and how the utopian vision led to violence. Western leftists' enthusiasm for Mao's project is critiqued for ignoring its deadly outcomes. The article's title suggests a provocative tone, quoting a phrase about 'fucking excesses' while acknowledging Mao's return in contemporary discourse. No specific art events are mentioned, but the cultural and historical analysis is relevant to art news due to its focus on ideology and memory.