China After the Civil War (1949 Onward)

The Chinese Civil War ended in 1949 with Communist (CCP) victory and the founding of the People's Republic of China. The Nationalists (KMT) retreated to Taiwan.

Early PRC (1949–1976)

• Reconstruction: Land reform, nationalization of industry, collectivization of agriculture.
• Political campaigns: Anti-Rightist (1957), Great Leap Forward (1958–62, famine), Cultural Revolution (1966–76, chaos, millions died).
• International: Korean War, split with USSR, Nixon visit (1972), UN seat (1971).

Reform Era (1978–Present)

• Deng Xiaoping's reforms: Market mechanisms, SEZs, foreign investment.
• Explosive growth: Average ~9–10% GDP growth for decades; lifted 800M+ out of poverty.
• Current status: World's 2nd largest economy (nominal), largest by PPP; global manufacturing, tech, trade leader.

Challenges: aging population, inequality, environmental stress, geopolitical tensions.