The Spirit of Hongyan: the Steel Will of Chinese Revolutionaries
The Spirit of Hongyan (literally meaning red cliff) is deeply rooted in Chongqing’s rich historical culture and revolutionary traditions, as well as in the founding spirit of the Communist Party of China (CPC). It emerged during the Chinese War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Liberation War under the leadership of the CPC. This revolutionary spirit embodies unwavering ideals, patriotic unity, unyielding perseverance, and noble integrity.
Book"Hong Yan"
Origins of the Spirit of Hongyan
Chongqing, as China's wartime capital and a key base for the anti-fascist alliance in the East, was a major political stage for the united front against Japan. Hongyan Village, located in Yuzhong District, served as the site of the CPC’s Southern Bureau and the Eighth Route Army’s Chongqing Office. The area, named after its red sandstone terrain, was a vital location for revolutionary activities during the war.
In 1938, under the leadership of Zhou Enlai, the CPC Southern Bureau was established to coordinate anti-Japanese efforts in the Kuomintang-controlled regions. The bureau operated from Hongyan Village, providing strategic leadership across 13 provinces and regions, including Sichuan, Guangdong, and Hong Kong. During this time, the revolutionaries fostered the Spirit of Hongyan through their steadfast dedication to national independence and liberation.
The Liberation War further enriched this spirit, with revolutionaries like Jiang Zhuyun（江竹筠） and Chen Ran（陈然） fighting valiantly against oppression in the infamous Zhazidong（渣滓洞） and White Mansion（白公馆） prisons. Their sacrifices strengthened the revolutionary ideals that became synonymous with the Spirit of Hongyan.
Characteristics of the Spirit of Hongyan:
Under the leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), led by Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and other revolutionary figures, the great revolutionary spirit of Hongyan was cultivated during the struggle for national independence and people's liberation in the Kuomintang-controlled areas centered around Chongqing.
Unwavering Ideals: Firm belief in revolutionary goals and the pursuit of justice.
Patriotic Unity: Dedication to the collective struggle for national independence.
Unyielding Perseverance: Resolute determination in the face of adversity.
Noble Integrity: Moral uprightness and selflessness.
Legacy and Dissemination
Establishment of Memorial Sites: The Hongyan Revolutionary Memorial Hall opened in 1958, followed by the Songlinpo Cemetery for Revolutionary Martyrs. These sites serve as vital centers for educating future generations about the sacrifices and ideals of the revolutionaries.
Recognition by National Leaders: Leaders such as Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, and Xi Jinping have praised and promoted the Spirit of Hongyan. Xi highlighted its significance during his visits to Chongqing and emphasized its importance in fostering patriotism and moral integrity.
Cultural and Educational Initiatives: The Spirit of Hongyan has been immortalized through literature, museums, and public education campaigns. The publication of Red Crag and the preservation of revolutionary sites continue to inspire dedication to national ideals and collective progress.
The Spirit of Hongyan stands alongside other revolutionary legacies such as the Spirit of Jinggangshan and the Spirit of Yan'an, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the Chinese people in their pursuit of a better future. It remains a beacon of inspiration for China’s ongoing development and modernization.
