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Friend of China: Unraveling the Myth of Rewi Alley's Chinese Worlds

Jeremy Cook

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Published in Friend Of China The Myth Of Rewi Alley (Chinese Worlds)

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Delving into the Enigma of a Complex Figure in China's History

In the tapestry of China's tumultuous 20th century, few figures loom as enigmatic as Rewi Alley. As a New Zealand-born journalist and self-proclaimed "friend of China," Alley's life and legacy have been inextricably entwined with the nation's communist revolution and socialist transformation. However, beneath the surface of the Westerner who embraced the Chinese cause lies a complex and often contradictory character.

Early Years and Commitment to China

Reginald (Rewi) Alley was born in Whangarei, New Zealand, in 1897. His early life was marked by adventure and a keen interest in international affairs. In 1927, he arrived in Shanghai, China, as a correspondent for the Christian Science Monitor. Witnessing the country's tumultuous political and social conditions firsthand, Alley's sympathies quickly aligned with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Over the next two decades, Alley immersed himself in China's rural development and industrial revolution. He established factories, schools, and agricultural cooperatives, earning widespread recognition as a dedicated supporter of the CCP. His work often intersected with some of the most pivotal events in Chinese history, including the Long March and the Second Sino-Japanese War.

Friend of China - The Myth of Rewi Alley (Chinese Worlds)

by Anne-Marie Brady

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	221 pages

Friendship and Controversy

Alley's relationship with China and the CCP was not without its complexities. His unwavering support for the regime often led him to overlook its flaws and human rights abuses. Critics accused him of turning a blind eye to the Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution, which resulted in widespread famine and political purges.

Despite the controversies surrounding his actions, Alley remained a staunch advocate for China on the international stage. He established the New Zealand-China Friendship Society and used his writing and speaking engagements to promote the country's socialist experiment.

Legacy and Re-evaluation

Rewi Alley died in Beijing in 1987, having spent the majority of his life in China. His legacy continues to be debated, with some hailing him as a humanitarian and others condemning him as a fellow traveler.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to reassess Alley's life and work. Scholars have argued that his experiences and perspectives provide valuable insights into the tumultuous period of China's transition to socialism. They have also highlighted Alley's role in fostering cultural and educational exchanges between China and the West.

The Myth of Rewi Alley

The title of the book, "Friend of China: The Myth of Rewi Alley's Chinese Worlds," is a provocative one. It suggests that Alley's image as a selfless supporter of China may have been more complex and multifaceted than commonly believed.

Through meticulous research and analysis, the book unravels the myth of Rewi Alley, revealing the contradictions, biases, and personal motivations that shaped his life and work. It provides a nuanced understanding of a man who was both a visionary and a flawed human being.

Rewi Alley remains a controversial figure in China's history. His life and legacy offer a window into the complexities of China's socialist experiment and the relationship between the West and the East. By exploring the myth and reality of Rewi Alley, we gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped one of the most pivotal periods in human history.

Call to Action

For those interested in delving deeper into the enigmatic figure of Rewi Alley and his impact on China, I highly recommend reading "Friend of China: The Myth of Rewi Alley's Chinese Worlds." This thought-provoking book will challenge your assumptions and provide a more nuanced perspective on one of the most enduring legends in the annals of China's history.

Friend of China - The Myth of Rewi Alley (Chinese Worlds)

by Anne-Marie Brady

5 out of 5