China nach Mao

A revolutionary book. Frank Dikötter, the historian of modern China, has presented the future standard work on China's rise to the superpower of the 21st century. It is a bold, multifaceted portrayal of China, which masks its internal weaknesses with an expansive economic and foreign policy and aggressive measures both within and outside the People's Republic. Frank Dikötter traces China's path to economic and global power. This is a unique ascent in all of history, aimed at becoming the most powerful and influential state in the world. However, China is a dragon that seems larger than it is and seeks global respect, often playing on fears of its size. The core of the book focuses on the years of explosive growth since 1976, an outstanding depiction that will no longer be possible in the coming years under Xi Jinping, as China has mutated into a surveillance state. China wants to isolate itself to mask its shortcomings, yet aims to become self-sufficient and take the reins of future global and power politics from the USA. Dikötter simultaneously highlights China's strengths and weaknesses – a ruthless warning about Chinese power politics. The true world power of the 21st century is much more dangerous than known, as China consciously conceals its weaknesses. A book that must be read today to avoid experiencing similar horrors tomorrow, as currently seen with Russia. A pulsating report that makes it clear how important it is to look beneath the surface when it comes to any period or region in history – but especially China.