Currency

Australia & China

People are my Business

Master D.M.Lee | 7/5/2023

Dame Mary Gilmore - Australian

Dame Mary Gilmore (1865-1962) was an Australian writer, poet, journalist, and social reformer who made significant contributions to Australian literature and championed various social causes. Here are some key points about Dame Mary Gilmore and her life:

Early Life and Education: Mary Jean Cameron was born on August 16, 1865, in Mary Vale, New South Wales, Australia. She grew up in a rural setting and received a basic education in local schools. She began writing poetry at a young age.

Literary Career: Gilmore's literary career spanned several decades. She published numerous poems, essays, and articles in newspapers and magazines. Her work often focused on themes of social justice, equality, and the Australian landscape. She became one of Australia's most celebrated poets of the 20th century.

Portrait of Dame Mary Gilmore, 1891 / Ethel Anna Stephens

Role in the Australian Labor Movement: Gilmore was actively involved in the Australian labor movement. She worked as a journalist for several labor newspapers and campaigned for workers' rights. She was associated with prominent labor figures and contributed to the growing socialist movement in Australia.

Recognition and Honors: Gilmore's contributions to literature and social reform were widely recognized. In 1937, she was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to literature and the community. In 1954, she was awarded the Queen's Coronation Medal.

Australian writer and journalist Mary Gilmore, 1916

Legacy: Dame Mary Gilmore's poetry and writings continue to be celebrated for their strong social and political themes. Her works, including "The Wild Swan" and "Nationality," resonate with the Australian experience and provide insights into the country's history and identity. She is remembered as an influential figure who used her writing to advocate for social justice and progressive ideals.

Mary Gilmore, State Library of NSW]

Dame Mary Gilmore's literary contributions, social activism, and dedication to advocating for marginalized groups have solidified her place as a significant figure in Australian history. Her work continues to inspire and engage readers, and her commitment to social justice serves as a reminder of the power of literature to drive positive change in society.

Mao Zedong - China

Mao Zedong (1893-1976) was a Chinese communist revolutionary, political leader, and theorist who played a central role in the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Here are some key points about Mao Zedong and his contributions:

Early Life and Revolutionary Activities: Mao Zedong was born on December 26, 1893, in Shaoshan, Hunan province, China. He was initially influenced by Chinese nationalism and later became a fervent advocate for communism. In the 1920s, he played a key role in the founding of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and led several revolutionary movements.

Mao Zedong in 1919

Long March and Rise to Power: During the Chinese Civil War (1927-1949), Mao led the Red Army on the epic Long March, a grueling retreat covering thousands of kilometers. This arduous journey helped solidify his leadership and gained him popular support. By the end of the civil war, Mao and the communists emerged victorious, establishing the People's Republic of China in 1949.

Mao's Ideology and Theoretical Contributions: Mao developed his own brand of Marxist-Leninist ideology known as Maoism or Mao Zedong Thought. His theories emphasized the importance of mobilizing the peasantry, rural guerrilla warfare, and the role of the Communist Party in leading revolutionary movements.

A Communist cadre leader addressing survivors of the Long March.

Great Leap Forward: In the late 1950s, Mao launched the Great Leap Forward, an ambitious economic and social campaign aimed at rapidly transforming China from an agrarian society to an industrialized nation. However, the campaign led to disastrous consequences, including widespread famine and economic turmoil.

Cultural Revolution: In 1966, Mao initiated the Cultural Revolution, a radical sociopolitical movement aimed at revitalizing communist ideology and purging perceived enemies of the revolution within the CCP and Chinese society. The Cultural Revolution resulted in political instability, social upheaval, and widespread persecution.

Spectators in front of a large sign on Nixon's motorcade route in China.

Impact and Legacy: Mao's leadership had a profound impact on China's modern history. His policies and campaigns had far-reaching consequences, shaping the country's political, economic, and social landscape. While his leadership was marked by successes and achievements, such as the establishment of the PRC and the modernization of China, it also resulted in significant human suffering and loss.

Mao's Influence and Criticism: Mao remains a highly controversial figure, both within China and internationally. His legacy is debated, with supporters applauding his role in modernizing China and defending its sovereignty, while critics point to the human rights abuses, political repression, and economic setbacks that occurred during his rule.

Mao Zedong sitting, published in "Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-Tung"

Mao Zedong's leadership and influence were instrumental in shaping the course of Chinese history. He is remembered as a complex and significant figure, whose policies and actions left a lasting impact on the nation and continue to shape debates on governance, ideology, and social justice.

Original D.M.Lee design

Here is an original drawing inspired by the Chinese currency.

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