Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

Li Xiannian

Role / Field:

Key Chinese Communist leader, served as President of China (1983-1988).

Born:

1909-06-23

Died:

1992-06-21

Century / Era:

1909s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

Li Xiannian ([lì ɕjɛ́nnjɛ̂n]; 23 June 1909 – 21 June 1992) was a Chinese Communist military and political leader, president of China from 1983 to 1988 under paramount leader Deng Xiaoping and then chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference from 1988 until his death. He was a full member of the Politburo from 1956 to 1987, and of its Standing Committee from 1977 to 1987. Li worked as an apprentice carpenter in his teenage years to support his family. He joined the Communist Party in December 1927 and became a soldier in the Chinese Red Army.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

After studying at the Military–Political University and the Central Party School, he became an influential and successful military commander during the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War, distinguishing himself in the Huaihai campaign. After the PRC was established, he served as Governor and Party Secretary of his native Hubei Province from 1949 to 1954, and then joined the central leadership in Beijing, serving as Minister of Finance (1954–1970) and Vice Premier (1954–1982). He supported Mao Zedong's designated successor, Hua Guofeng, and was named Vice Chairman of the Party (1977–1982). He was considered...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1909 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1909
• June 23 (06-23) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on June 23
• 1992 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1992
• June 21 (06-21) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on June 21

Frequently Asked Questions about Li Xiannian