Mao's Great Famine: The History of China's Most Devastating Catastrophe, 1958–1962

"Mao's Great Famine" examines the catastrophic consequences of China's Great Leap Forward from 1958 to 1962. Frank Dikötter argues that the policies implemented during this period led to widespread famine and suffering. The book highlights the role of government propaganda in obscuring the reality of the crisis. Dikötter provides evidence of the scale of starvation, estimating millions of deaths. He discusses the impact of collectivization and agricultural mismanagement on food production. The author critiques the leadership's refusal to acknowledge the crisis. He explores the social and political dynamics that exacerbated the famine. The narrative incorporates personal testimonies and archival research. Dikötter emphasizes the long-term effects of the famine on Chinese society. The work contributes to the understanding of Maoist policies and their human cost.