Marxism–Leninism–Maoism

Marxism-Leninism-Maoism, also known as Mao Zedong Thought or simply Maoism, is a political ideology and theoretical framework that builds upon and further develops the ideas of Marxism-Leninism, with a particular focus on the contributions of Mao Zedong, the leader of the Chinese Communist Party and the founding father of the People’s Republic of China.

Maoism emerged as a distinct ideological current within the broader communist movement during the 20th century. It draws on the works and practices of Mao Zedong, especially during the Chinese revolution and the early years of the People’s Republic of China. Maoism gained attention as a third stage in the development of Marxism-Leninism, following Lenin’s contributions to Marxist theory.

Key features and principles of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism (Maoism) include:

1. Mass Line: Maoism emphasizes the importance of the “mass line,” which involves integrating the ideas and needs of the masses (the working class and peasantry) into the policies and decisions of the ruling party. The mass line seeks to ensure that the interests of the masses are represented and addressed in the revolutionary process.
2. Protracted People’s War: Maoism is known for its strategy of “protracted people’s war” as a way for the rural peasantry to seize power in a predominantly agrarian society. The strategy involves the mobilization of the rural masses through a long and protracted armed struggle against the ruling class.
3. Cultural Revolution: One of the most significant elements of Maoism is the Cultural Revolution, which took place in China from 1966 to 1976. It aimed to purge bourgeois and revisionist elements from the Communist Party and Chinese society, promote revolutionary fervor, and reassert the values of the proletarian revolution.
4. New Democratic Revolution: Maoism identifies a stage of “new democratic revolution” in certain countries, particularly those with a large agrarian population. This revolution aims to liberate the peasantry from feudal and imperialist oppression, leading to the establishment of a socialist society.
5. Peasant Revolution: Maoism gives significant attention to the role of the peasantry as a revolutionary force, especially in countries with predominantly agrarian economies. It sees the peasantry as potential allies of the working class in the struggle against capitalism and imperialism.
6. Anti-Revisionism: Maoism takes a firm stance against what it views as the revisionist tendencies of certain communist parties and leaders. It advocates for maintaining the revolutionary principles of Marxism-Leninism and resisting ideological deviations.

Maoism has influenced revolutionary movements and communist parties in various parts of the world, beyond China. Different groups and organizations have adopted and adapted Maoist principles to their specific contexts. It remains an important ideological current within the broader communist movement, contributing to ongoing debates about revolutionary strategy, class struggle, and the building of socialist societies.