The Red Guards

The Red Guards were groups of young people in China during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), launched by Mao Zedong. They were inspired to challenge old traditions, culture, and authority, often through protests, speeches, and sometimes violence. Their goal was to promote Mao’s communist ideas and reshape society according to revolutionary ideals. The movement led to widespread social chaos, damage to cultural heritage, and persecution of perceived enemies. Eventually, the government curtailed their activities, but their impact on China’s history and culture was significant.