Chen Duxiu, born on October 9, 1879, and passing on May 27, 1942, played a pivotal role in China’s history. As a principal founder of the Communist Party of China, he significantly influenced the New Culture Movement and the May Fourth Movement.
His early leadership in the party was crucial, especially in establishing the Communist Party of China in Shanghai around 1920. He served as Secretary of the Central Bureau at the party’s first national congress in Shanghai in 1921.
Chen Duxiu’s leadership during the May Thirtieth Movement in 1925 was notable, but his later right-leaning thoughts led to significant challenges within the party.
In 1927, he faced a setback at the “August 7th” meeting of the Chinese Communist Party, leading to his removal as General Secretary. His focus then shifted to urban-centered movements, contrasting with the prevailing rural armed struggles, and he formed Trotskyist groups.
In 1929, his divergence from the party line led to his expulsion. Despite this, he continued his activism, forming the “Proletarian Society” in Shanghai. During the Anti-Japanese War, he advocated for cooperation between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party, leading to a rift with the Trotskyist Central Committee.
In 1938, he was falsely accused by Wang Ming and Kang Sheng of being a Japanese spy. In May 1942, Chen Duxiu died of illness in Jiangjin, Sichuan.
Former Residence of Chen Duxiu
Chen Duxiu’s Old Hometown House
Situated in Anqing City, Anhui Province, Chen Duxiu’s hometown house is a significant historical site. In 2013, the Anqing city government and Qian Nian Yicheng Memory Plaza decided against demolishing this residence, preserving it as a valuable cultural artifact. It stands unique as it is not yet a cultural heritage protection unit.
Chen Duxiu’s Former Residence in Beijing (1917 – 1920)
Chen Duxiu’s residence in Beijing （陈独秀旧居, recognised by Google Map as “Chenduxiu Jiuju), where he lived from 1917 to 1920, is a historical landmark. The entrance, marked by a small ruyi-style gate and a gable and hip roof, leads to a courtyard featuring a northern house and a southern house, each with distinct architectural styles.
The editorial office of “New Youth” was also located here. His arrest on June 11, 1919, by the Beiyang Government, and subsequent release, highlights the house’s political significance. He left Beijing for Shanghai in January 1920. The house underwent renovations in 2016 and opened to the public in 2021, serving as a cultural hub for the community.
Visiting Guide
The Former Residence of Chen Duxiu in Beijing, a significant cultural relic, is located at 20 Jian Gan Hutong, Beichizi Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing (北京市东城区箭杆胡同20号院).
No. 20 Jiangan Hutong is located in Dongcheng District of Beijing, near Beichizi Street, Nanchizi Street, the east gate of the Forbidden City and Donghuamen Street.
So, the surrounding traffic is convenient, through a number of bus lines, including 2 road, 82 road, night 2 road, sightseeing 2 line, etc.
Public Buses:
- Take Sightseeing Line 2 to Donghuamen Station
- Take No. 2, No. 60, No. 82, No. 103, No. 141, Sightseeing Line 1, Night Road 2 to the station Qihelou Station
- Take Metro Line 8 and get off at China National Art Museum Station
- Take Metro Line 1 and get off at Wangfujing Station
- Take Metro Line 5 and get off at Dengshikou Station
For more information, visitors can contact the residence at 010-65289569.
Visiting the Former Residence of Chen Duxiu in Beijing offers a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of a significant figure in Chinese history. This cultural landmark not only preserves the past but also serves as an educational and inspirational site for both locals and visitors alike.