four-class coalition

Chinese history

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June 26, 2026

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In 1949, following their victory, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) established a "four-class coalition." This alliance included workers, farmers, and elements of the urban middle class—specifically the petty bourgeoisie and national bourgeoisie—all under the leadership of the CCP. This coalition was intended to consolidate the "people's political power" as China transitioned towards a socialist society and industrial development. The new government aimed to transform China into a great power, shifting its focus from the countryside to urban centers, while still guided by the revolutionary ideals forged in rural struggles. This period also saw the restoration of order and the beginning of long-term economic planning, though it involved compromises with non-communist elements in cities.12

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China
Establishment of the People’s Republic
” He advocated forming a four-class coalition of elements of the urban middle class—the petty bourgeoisie and the national bourgeoisie—with workers and farmers, under the leadership of the CCP. The people’s state would exercise a dictatorship “for the oppression of antagonistic classes” made up of opponents of the regime.
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” He advocated forming a four-class coalition of elements of the urban middle class—the petty bourgeoisie and the national bourgeoisie—with workers and farmers, under the leadership of the CCP. The people’s state would exercise a dictatorship “for the oppression of antagonistic classes” made up of opponents of the regime.
Read More