What were some of the events that followed the demonstration in Tiananmen Square?
1 Answer
Continued and increased political repression.
Explanation:
The Tiananmen demonstration was an expression by many groups within China, including public sector workers, students and intellectuals for political reform to accompany the economic reform which had taken place under Deng Xiao Ping after the death of Mao.
Such demands were a step too far from the ruling elite. They were concerned that theri monopoly of power would be undermined and threatened by such reforms. As a consequence Deng sent in the army to crush the demonstrators and clear the Square.
Exact figures are difficult to obtain but hundreds possibly thousands were killed and injured. Some escaped but most of the leaders were arrested and given lengthy prison snetences.
It showed the the communist elite will not allow political reform to accompany the economic and social change which has taken place in the last 40 years.
