Much like the Soviet Union, the People's Republic of China (PRC) underwent monumental changes after a Communist Revolution (1949). An industrial policy called the Great Leap Forward caused a famine killing 30-50 million people from 1959-1961. To regain power, Mao Zedong launched the Cultural Revolution, 1966-1976, only ending with Mao's death. This left the country in economic/intellectual ruin and let to the most impactful even in modern Chinese history: 改革开放 Reform and Opening up policy in 1978. The CCP, Chinese Communist Party, was able to reform their North Korea like economy while maintaining complete political control over the country and people. After almost 4 decades of rocket style growth, the Covid lockdowns, real estate market bust, exploding public/private debt, demographic collapse, ongoing trade war with the US, and outrage over systemic corruption, the Chinese economy is stalling even according to government statistics (don't forget your salt shaker).  

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​Post trip thoughts: After living, working, and traveling in China for over 9 years, the party is officially over. Xi Jinping's real estate and Covid policies were the final nails in the coffin for economic growth and personal freedom. The zenith has passed, but many great memories remain. The country is blessed with many natural wonders, countless historical sites, and many fine people. However, bluntly, nothing is more harmful to Chinese society/citizens than the Chinese Communist Party. Don't be fooled by the buildings lit up at night and the dancing people dressed up in minority people's clothing, it's basically just a rich North Korea.