China: A Century of Revolution

3 episodes, 120 minutes each on 3 VHS or 1 DVD
Source: CD Universe

This first-hand look at China's tumultuous history examines the country's social, political and cultural upheaval through eyewitness accounts, archival film footage, and commentary.

1. China in Revolution, 1911-1949 recounts the 38 years during which China was transformed from a centuries-old empire into the world's largest Communist state.

2. The Mao Years, 1949-1976 covers advent of Communist Party rule in China and the attempts by Mao Zedung to modernize China, which resulted in famine, the repression of individual freedoms, and in later years the advent of limited capitalism.  It includes interviews with Chinese citizens who comment on their individual experiences.

3. Born Under the Red Flag, 1976-1997 examines the years following the death of Mao Zedung.  Under Deng Xiaoping's leadership, China witnessed sweeping economic and social changes but under the firm control of the Communist party.  This episode chronicles the growing student movements and party crackdown at Tiananmen Square as individuals challenge the meaning and value of communism in China.