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18 pages; Contents clean and secure in original printed pink wrappers stapled at spine, faint remains of a label on rear wrapper. Curiously, the pages are numbered with Arabic numerals. This popular small text on etiquette and moral behaviour, meant as a supplement to formal school materials, proposes Confucian principles as an appropriate path as distinguished from the values put forward by the Chinese Communist Party (which are "not consistent with Chinese culture") . It encourages the idea of unified Chinese Nationalism shared by those of Chinese descent throughout the world. There is much criticism of the Chinese Communists and their efforts to undermine traditional Chinese values of family and to abolish Confucianism and the study of the five texts. The author references the year 41 of the Republic of China (1953) with respect to preparation of this publication. Apparently, this booklet was printed (c. 1500 copies) in Hong Kong to be disseminated to students in Taiwan for the first May 29 Youth Day Festival (commemorating the "72 Martyrs" who died in an unsuccessful revolt against the Qing Dynasty launched in Guangzhou in 1911) . The booklet was then distributed throughout the Chinese diaspora. There is much discussion of the principles of Confucianism and its value to individuals and Chinese society at large. There is discussion of the current situation in world affairs and several quotations from world figures (representatives from UK, Germany, Portugal, Russia, etc. ) about the great value of confucius and Chinese tradition, including a reference to General McArthur's return to China and his viewpoint. One wonders if there was some form of support for its production from a U. S. Organization. A truly fascinating bit of Chinese cultural history, especially in the context of the CCP's efforts to resurrect Confucianism in the past decade or so. HISTORICAL CONTEXT: After the Kuomintang fled to Taiwan, propaganda through public education in Taiwan was an important tool in creating a Chinese national identity among Taiwanese and preparing the people for "a counter-offensive" against the PRC. This booklet was published during the Taiwan Strait Crises of the 1950s. In January 1950, US President Harry Truman issued a statement that the US had no intention of "utilising its Armed Forces to interfere in the present situation" and "will not pursue a course which will lead to involvement in the civil conflict in China". However, in June 1950, the Korean War broke out, changing the course of history. The US government immediately announced the deployment of aircraft carriers to the Taiwan Strait. On its part, the CCP also moved the PLA northwards, and Taiwan and the mainland henceforth entered a long standoff. In addition to sending US naval vessels as added defence in the Strait, a US advisory group was also dispatched to Taiwan. The US still recognised the Republic of China (ROC) government as the only legitimate government representing China, and supported it retaining its seat as a permanent member of the UN Security Council. In 1954, the US and Taiwan signed the Sino-American Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) , stating their relationship as military allies, while also expanding cooperation in areas of government, economy, and society. .; Philosophy and Religion, Oriental Studies, Most Recent Listing.
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