Interlink's new illustrated history series seeks to explore the persistent themes of our recent past in order to prepare for the new century. Each volume offers a concise yet comprehensive analysis of a particular political, cultural or social phenomenon and is lavishly illustrated with color and b&w photographs and maps.

From the collapse of the old Chinese Empire in 1912 to the foundation of the People's Republic in 1949, Mao Zedong's history is linked with that of contemporary China and with the history of world communism as well. His version of guerilla warfare and revolution resulted in the construction of a socialist society.