May Fourth and the Making of Modern China

Date: Thursday, August 31st
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Cost: 200 RMB (160 RMB for members)

Duration: About two hours

Distance: About 3.5 km (2 miles)

The years between 1912 and 1919 marked an era of profound change in Beijing and for China. The end of the imperial era in 1912 unleashed social and political which even 100 years later continue to shape the way China sees the world. This two-hour walk will take us past the homes of Lao She, Chen Duxiu and even a young Mao Zedong and into the halls of the original campus of Peking University...the birthplace of the May Fourth Movement. We'll discuss how the May Fourth Demonstrations were not only the culmination of an age of intellectual dynamism but also marked a major shift in the evolution of modern China.

We'll discuss the end of the empire, the rise and fall of the Republic of China, and the origins of today's Communist Party. We'll also explore the roads not taken and we will also look at the artists and intellectuals who contributed to this era of monumental change.

Spaces for this walk are limited and registration is required. Details about the walk including meeting points and payment information will be sent by email as part of your your registration confirmation.