Zhao Ziyang

ModernPoliticianChina1919 — 2005

Premier purged for sympathizing with Tiananmen Square protesters.

Compare Zhao Ziyang with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1919

Died

2005

Country

China

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)13

Political (20%)45

Influence (20%)56

Legacy (20%)47

Leadership (15%)74

Strategy (15%)28

Total Score47.7

Zhao Ziyang — Complete Timeline

1980 AD

Appointed Premier of the People's Republic of ChinaPolitical Action◆ Major

Zhao Ziyang succeeded Hua Guofeng as Premier. He implemented Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms, including the household responsibility system and the opening of Special Economic Zones.

Economic ReformPremiership

Impact: nationalconstructive

1987 AD

Appointed General Secretary of the Communist PartyPolitical Action◆ Major

Zhao Ziyang became General Secretary after Hu Yaobang's resignation. He continued economic reforms but faced growing pressure from conservative factions within the party.

Party LeadershipReform Era

Impact: national

1989 AD

Sympathized with Tiananmen Square ProtestersPolitical Action

During the Tiananmen Square protests, Zhao Ziyang visited the protesters and expressed sympathy, opposing the use of force. This led to his purge and house arrest for the rest of his life.

Tiananmen SquarePurge

Impact: globaltragic

Purged and Placed Under House ArrestPolitical Action◆ Major

Zhao Ziyang was removed from all posts and placed under house arrest after the Tiananmen Square crackdown. He was replaced by Jiang Zemin and lived in seclusion until his death in 2005.

PurgeHouse Arrest

Impact: nationaltragic