Hundred Flowers Campaign

The Hundred Flowers Campaign was a period in 1956-1957 in China when the government encouraged intellectuals and the public to openly share their ideas and criticize policies. Initially, it aimed to promote intellectual freedom and diverse opinions. However, when criticisms became too strong or widespread, the government reversed course, suppressing dissent and punishing those who spoke out. The campaign highlights a brief moment of openness followed by tightening control, illustrating the complexities of political reform and the risks of encouraging free expression within an authoritarian system.