Explainer: How did Xi Jinping rise to power in China?

In 2021, the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee adopted a historical resolution that elevated Xi Jinping's status to be on par with influential leaders like Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. This significant move set the stage for the upcoming 20th party Congress, where Xi is anticipated to further solidify his position as China's core leader. His ascent marks a pivotal moment in consolidating power within China.

In 2018, China's top legislature abolished the two-term limit for the presidency, allowing Xi Jinping to secure a historic third term as General Secretary of the Communist Party. This pivotal change enables him to remain in power indefinitely, solidifying his position as Paramount leader. Although he may have gained international recognition more recently, this constitutional amendment marks a significant shift in Chinese political dynamics.

Xi Jinping's rise to power was shaped by his unique background as the first Chinese leader born after the People's Republic was established. As a child of political princelings, he faced challenges due to his father's purging during the Cultural Revolution. Despite failing nine times to join the Communist Party, Xi eventually succeeded and spent seven formative years in rural Shanxi province as part of Mao's re-education program for youth. This experience significantly influenced him and later contributed to his leadership style.

Xi Jinping's political career began in Liang, where he served as party chief before advancing to the role of party secretary in Hebei province. His experience studying U.S. farming practices during a two-week stay with an Iowa family influenced his views on governance and development. Following this, Xi held significant positions such as governor and party secretary in Fujian Province, which solidified his standing within the Communist Party hierarchy. In 2007, he became the party secretary of Shanghai and was appointed vice president by 2008.

Xi Jinping's rise to power in 2012 marked a significant shift towards centralized leadership, moving away from the collective approach of his predecessors. He implemented extensive reforms aimed at consolidating party control over both the economy and ideology while aggressively tackling government corruption, often targeting political rivals. Xi set ambitious goals for China’s development: achieving moderate prosperity by 2021 and transforming it into a modern socialist nation by 2049; he claimed success on these fronts with announcements regarding poverty elimination. His influence extended globally through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, asserting China's role as a model for developing nations amidst rising tensions with Western powers. As he prepares for an unprecedented third term at the upcoming party congress, Xi has firmly established himself as one of China's most impactful leaders.