Chinese State Television Celebrates Xi Jinping's Father in New Drama Series

On November 5, 2024, Chinese state television launched a historical drama that depicts the life of Xi Zhongxun, the father of Chinese president Xi Jinping. Titled 'Time in the Northwest,' this 39-part series portrays Xi Zhongxun's journey from a peasant in rural Shaanxi province to a significant player in the Chinese Communist Party during its revolutionary period. Funded by the Central Propaganda Department, the show aims to glorify both the military history of the CCP and the personal legacy of Xi Jinping's family. The series has received widespread acclaim on state-controlled social media, reflecting the Chinese government's inclination to control historical narratives. The storyline places great emphasis on Xi Zhongxun’s experiences in the 1930s through the early 1950s, culminating just before the birth of Xi Jinping in 1953. However, while the series aims to celebrate the elder Xi's achievements, it glosses over darker periods of his life, including a tumultuous era when he faced purging from the party due to his political beliefs. This production comes amid concerns from the current Chinese leadership about ensuring the younger generation maintains a connection to party history and values. The drama also serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in interpreting Communist Party history, especially regarding portrayals of significant figures. In summary, 'Time in the Northwest' is not just a biopic about a key historical figure but a strategic move to reinforce the narrative of loyalty to the CCP through the lens of the Xi family’s legacy.