Born: 1878 (Hong Kong)
Died: 1972
Biography:
He Xiangning (Chinese: 何香凝; Wade–Giles: Ho Hsiang-ning; 27 June 1878 – 1 September 1972) was a prominent figure in the Chinese revolution, known for her contributions as a feminist, politician, painter, and poet. She played a crucial role in advocating for women’s rights and political reform, leaving a lasting impact on Chinese society.
He Xiangning was born on June 27, 1878, as He Jian, into a wealthy family in Hong Kong. Her father, He Binghuan, was originally from Nanhai, Guangdong Province, and established a successful business trading tea and investing in real estate. Despite the traditional customs of the time, He Xiangning’s father allowed her to receive an education alongside her brothers, which she eagerly pursued with diligence and dedication.
From a young age, He Xiangning showed a strong determination to fight for women’s rights. She vehemently opposed her father’s order to bind her feet, a common practice among Chinese women at the time. In October 1897, she was arranged to marry Liao Zhongkai, an American-born Chinese who shared her beliefs and resisted the binding of women’s feet. Their marriage was based on mutual respect and a shared passion for China’s welfare.
He Xiangning’s support for her husband’s education and her financial sacrifices emphasized her unwavering commitment to their shared vision. She sold her jewelry and used her personal savings to provide Liao with the opportunity to study in Japan. He went to Japan in November 1902, and two months later, He Xiangning followed suit, studying at the prep school for Tokyo Women’s Normal School.
In Tokyo, He Xiangning and Liao Zhongkai became acquainted with Sun Yat-sen, the Chinese revolutionary leader. This encounter proved to be a turning point in their lives. Inspired by Sun’s revolutionary ideals, they both joined his anti-Qing movement, the Tongmenghui. It was during this time that they acquired crucial skills, such as weapon training by Huang Xing, in preparation for the revolution.
During their involvement with the Tongmenghui, He Xiangning and Liao Zhongkai shared a deep commitment to the cause of Chinese independence. They were among the earliest members of the revolutionary group, playing significant roles in Sun Yat-sen’s fight against the Qing dynasty. Their dedication and tireless efforts earned them well-deserved recognition and respect within the movement.
Following the establishment of Sun Yat-sen’s Nationalist government in Guangzhou (Canton), He Xiangning was appointed the Minister for Women’s Affairs. In this role, she prioritized the advocacy for equal rights for women. She organized China’s first rally for International Women’s Day in 1924, which marked a significant milestone in the country’s women’s rights movement. He Xiangning’s efforts to empower women and promote gender equality during a time of social change laid a solid foundation for future progress.
Tragedy struck He Xiangning’s life when her husband, Liao Zhongkai, was assassinated in 1925. Following this devastating loss, and amidst Chiang Kai-shek’s persecution of the Communists in 1927, He Xiangning chose to distance herself from party politics for the next two decades. However, she remained actively involved in organizing resistance against the Japanese invasion of China.
In 1948, He Xiangning co-founded the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, a political organization aimed at consolidating democratic forces and promoting political reform. This marked her return to formal political engagements after a long hiatus. Her experience and dedication contributed greatly to the committee’s objectives and further strengthened her reputation as a committed political figure.
With the foundation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, He Xiangning’s political career continued to soar. She assumed numerous high-ranking positions, including Vice Chairwoman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) from 1954 to 1964, Vice Chairwoman of the National People’s Congress from 1959 to 1972, Chairwoman of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang from 1960 to 1972, and Honorary Chairwoman of the All-China Women’s Federation.
Notably, He Xiangning was not only active in politics but also made significant contributions to the arts. She was a renowned painter affiliated with the Lingnan School of Chinese art. In the 1960s, she served as the Chairwoman of the China Artists Association, further adding to her diverse range of accomplishments. The National He Xiangning Art Museum, opened in Shenzhen in 1997, stands as a testament to her artistic legacy, while her paintings have been featured on Chinese stamps.
Throughout her life, He Xiangning exhibited remarkable resilience, determination, and a progressive vision for society. Her unwavering commitment to gender equality, political reform, and the preservation of China’s cultural heritage continues to inspire generations. He Xiangning’s pioneering work and contributions to the Chinese revolution and women’s rights firmly establish her as a prominent figure in history.
Awards:
– There is currently no information available regarding the specific awards or recognitions received by He Xiangning.