Epic History TV

S11E19

Rise of China - The Economic Revolution that made China a Superpower

The conclusion to our Rise of China series follows the nation’s transformation into the superpower we see today. In the wake of Mao Zedong’s death, Deng Xiaoping takes control and attempts to forge a new path for the People’s Republic. His reforms promise a brave new future, as China opens up to the world, transforms its economy and improves the living standards of its people. But China’s transformation will only be allowed to go so far. When popular protests erupt in 1989, the Tiananmen Square massacre becomes a startling reminder of China’s authoritarian government - one that survives to the present day.