History of Hu Jintao in Timeline
Hu Jintao is a retired Chinese politician who held several prominent positions in China, including General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, President of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. He led the country from 2002 to 2012 and was a key figure in China's top decision-making body. His tenure marked a period of significant economic growth and China's rise as a global power.
December 1942: Birth of Hu Jintao
Hu Jintao was born in December 1942 in Tai County, Jiangsu province, China, during the Japanese occupation. His family had a modest background, with his father running a small tea trading business.
1949: Communist Party Assumes Power in China
In 1949, the Communist Party came into power in China, marking a significant turning point in the nation's history.
1959: The Tibetan Uprising
The 1959 Tibetan uprising was a pivotal event in Tibetan history. It marked a turning point in the relationship between Tibet and the Chinese government, leading to significant political and social changes.
April 1964: Joining the CCP and Graduation
Hu Jintao joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in April 1964. The same year, he graduated from Tsinghua University, where he studied hydropower stations.
July 1965: Beginning of Engineering Career
In July 1965, Hu Jintao embarked on his professional journey as an engineer.
1968: Contribution to the Third Front Construction
In 1968, during the Third Front construction, Hu Jintao volunteered his services in Gansu province, contributing to the construction of the Liujiaxia Hydroelectric Station.
1969: Work at Sinohydro Engineering Bureau
Hu Jintao joined the Sinohydro Engineering Bureau in 1969.
1970: Marriage to Liu Yongqing
Hu Jintao married Liu Yongqing in 1970. They met while studying at Tsinghua University and have two children, Hu Haifeng and Hu Haiqing.
1973: Transfer to the Construction Department of Gansu
Hu Jintao was transferred to the Construction Department of Gansu in 1973, taking on the role of secretary.
1974: Leaving Sinohydro Engineering Bureau
Hu Jintao's time at Sinohydro Engineering Bureau came to an end in 1974.
1980: Promotion and Recognition under Deng Xiaoping's Reform
In 1980, under Deng Xiaoping's "Four Transformations" program, Hu Jintao was identified for his potential and rapidly promoted to deputy head of the commission. This marked a significant turning point in his career.
1982: Rise in the Communist Youth League and Move to Beijing
Hu Jintao's career progressed rapidly in 1982. He was promoted to key positions within the Communist Youth League, including director of the All-China Youth Federation and first secretary of the CY Central. His mentor, Song Ping, played a crucial role in his rise. Hu Jintao also moved to Beijing to study at the Central Party School.
1985: Appointment as Guizhou Provincial Committee Secretary
Hu Jintao was appointed as the Communist Party secretary of Guizhou province in 1985. This marked a significant promotion and entrusted him with the responsibility of leading a province facing economic challenges.
1987: Navigating Student Protests in Guizhou
In 1987, Hu Jintao faced student protests in Guizhou, coinciding with similar demonstrations in Beijing. His handling of the situation, characterized by adherence to Beijing's directives, contrasted with the events in Beijing that led to Hu Yaobang's resignation.
1987: Hu Yaobang's Purge and Impact on Hu Jintao
The purge of Hu Yaobang by Deng Xiaoping in 1987 due to his 'liberal' tendencies had implications for Hu Jintao. Initially seen as unfavorable, Hu Jintao faced criticism for not publicly denouncing the ousted reformer.
1988: Appointment as Party Secretary of Tibet
In 1988, Hu Jintao was appointed Party Regional Committee secretary of the Tibet Autonomous Region, a challenging position given the region's history of unrest and ethnic tensions.
February 1989: Deployment of Armed Police in Tibet
Responding to growing unrest in Tibet, Hu Jintao, as Party Regional Committee secretary, deployed 1,700 People's Armed Police to Lhasa in February 1989 to quell potential disturbances.
March 1989: Escalation of Unrest and Riots in Lhasa
On March 5, 1989, five days before the 30th anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan uprising, clashes between protesters and police escalated into serious rioting in Lhasa. The events led to casualties, and the circumstances surrounding the use of force remain a subject of debate.
June 1990: Hu Jintao's Return to Beijing Due to Health Issues
Citing high-altitude sickness, Hu Jintao returned to Beijing in June 1990. However, his departure from Tibet fueled speculation that it was a strategic move to return to the center of Chinese politics.
October 1992: Hu Jintao's Rise to the Politburo Standing Committee
In October 1992, Hu Jintao, at the age of 49, became one of the youngest members to join the CCP Politburo Standing Committee. He was recommended by Song Ping as a potential future leader, as per Deng Xiaoping's vision for a smooth transition of power to younger generations.
1992: Hu Jintao Joins the Politburo Standing Committee
In 1992, Hu Jintao became a member of the CCP Politburo Standing Committee, China's most powerful decision-making body.
1992: Hu Jintao Assumes Key Roles in the CCP
In 1992, Hu Jintao was appointed the first secretary of the CCP Secretariat, overseeing the Central Committee's daily operations. He was also put in charge of the Central Party School, a strategic position for fostering support among CCP cadres, and took on the responsibility of the CCP's ideological work.
1992: 1992 Consensus
The 1992 Consensus remained the foundation for cross-strait relations during Hu Jintao's time in office.
1998: Hu Jintao as Vice President and Support for Jiang Zemin's Initiatives
Hu Jintao became vice president in 1998. During this time, he actively supported Jiang Zemin's initiatives, including the "Three Stresses" movement and the "Three Represents" theory, further solidifying Jiang's authority.
1999: Hu Jintao Becomes China's Leading Voice During US Embassy Bombing
Hu Jintao emerged as China's leading voice during the 1999 US bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade. This event highlighted his growing presence in foreign affairs.
2001: Hu Jintao Promotes Jiang Zemin's "Three Represents" Theory
In 2001, Hu Jintao actively promoted Jiang Zemin's "Three Represents" theory, which aimed to position Jiang alongside prominent Marxist theorists. This further demonstrated Hu's support for Jiang's leadership.
November 2002: Hu Jintao Assumes Leadership Roles in China
Following the 16th National Congress of the CCP in November 2002, Hu Jintao assumed leadership as the CCP general secretary. He also effectively became the paramount leader, marking a significant transition of power.
2002: Hu Jintao's Rise to Power
In 2002, Hu Jintao became the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), marking the beginning of his tenure as China's paramount leader.
2003: Hu Jintao Becomes President
Hu Jintao assumed the presidency of China in 2003.
2003: Hu Jintao Addresses the SARS Crisis
The outbreak of SARS in 2003 marked an early challenge for Hu Jintao's leadership. Facing criticism for China's initial handling of the crisis, he responded by dismissing several party and government officials. This included the health minister, who had ties to Jiang Zemin, and the Mayor of Beijing, Meng Xuenong, who was seen as Hu's protégé.
September 2004: Hu Jintao Consolidates Power as Jiang Zemin Steps Down
Jiang Zemin resigned from his last official post as chairman of the Central Military Commission in September 2004. This allowed Hu Jintao to fully consolidate his power over the party, state, and military.
2004: Hu Jintao's Response to Chen Shui-bian's Re-election
Following Chen Shui-bian's re-election in 2004, Hu Jintao's government shifted its approach towards Taiwan. Due to Chen and the DPP's pro-independence stance and rejection of the 1992 consensus, Hu adopted a policy of non-contact.
2004: Hu Jintao Appointed Chairman of the Central Military Commission
Hu Jintao became the Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) in 2004, solidifying his control over China's military.
2004: Hu Jintao's Debut on the World Stage: First Time 100 Recognition
Hu Jintao's entry into the upper echelons of global leadership was solidified in 2004 when he was named one of the Time 100 most influential people. This marked his first appearance on the prestigious list, signifying his rising prominence on the world stage.
2004: Hu Jintao Breaks with Tradition, Signals Anti-Corruption Stance
In a notable departure from tradition, Hu Jintao in 2004 ordered an end to the annual summer retreat of high-ranking officials to the Beidaihe seaside resort. This move, seen as a measure to curb lavish spending and promote frugality, resonated with the public as a strong signal of his commitment to tackling corruption.
2005: Hu Jintao's Third Appearance on Time 100
By 2005, Hu Jintao had become a regular presence among the world's most influential, as evidenced by his third appearance on the Time 100 list. This repeated recognition solidified his position as a key player on the global stage.
2005: Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao's Conservative Approach to Reforms
Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao took a more measured approach to reforms, reversing some of Deng Xiaoping's policies. This shift aimed to address concerns about inequality and promote a more egalitarian society.
2005: Hu Jintao's Economic Policies
Hu Jintao's administration increased its focus on the state sector, providing substantial support and favoring it in regulations. This led to the rise of large "national champions" capable of competing globally. However, this approach also contributed to a property bubble in China.
March 2006: Hu Jintao Introduces "Eight Honors and Eight Shames"
In March 2006, to address social concerns, Hu Jintao introduced the "Eight Honors and Eight Shames." This set of moral guidelines, also known as the "Eight Honors and Disgraces," aimed to instill ethical behavior and counter what he perceived as a decline in morality amidst rapid economic growth.
2006: Hu Jintao Launches the "8 Honors and 8 Shames" Movement
In 2006, Hu Jintao initiated the "8 Honors and 8 Shames" movement. This campaign sought to foster a more selfless and moral society by promoting specific values and behaviors among the Chinese population.
2006: Hu Jintao's Four Phases of China's Foreign Policy
In 2006, Hu Jintao outlined a four-phased approach to China's foreign policy. This framework prioritized relationships with major powers, neighboring countries, developing nations, and emphasized multilateralism on the global stage.
June 2007: Hu Jintao's Speech at Central Party School
In June 2007, Hu Jintao delivered a significant speech at the Central Party School. Marked by a populist tone, he addressed China's socioeconomic challenges, particularly income inequality, and stressed the importance of "increased democracy." This speech provided insights into his leadership approach and policy priorities.
October 2007: Hu Jintao Re-elected as CCP General Secretary and CMC Chairman
In October 2007, at the 17th CCP National Congress, Hu Jintao was re-elected as general secretary of the Central Committee and chairman of the CCP Central Military Commission, reaffirming his leadership position.
2007: Hu Jintao's Continued Influence: Another Year on the Time 100
Hu Jintao's global stature continued to rise in 2007, marked by his inclusion in the Time 100 list for the second time. This recognition highlighted his sustained impact and growing influence on world affairs.
2007: Hu Jintao's Distinct Political Philosophy
In 2007, political observers began to distinguish Hu Jintao's political approach from that of his predecessor. He championed "Harmonious Socialist Society" domestically and "Peaceful Development" on the international stage. Notably, his "Scientific Development Concept," which sought solutions for economic, environmental, and social issues, was incorporated into the CCP and State Constitutions.
March 2008: Hu Jintao Re-elected as President of China
Hu Jintao was re-elected as president of China at the 11th National People's Congress in March 2008. He was also re-elected as chairman of the PRC Central Military Commission, solidifying his hold on power.
March 2008: Hu Jintao Recognizes 1992 Consensus
In March 2008, during a telephone conversation with then US President George W. Bush, Hu Jintao became the first Chinese leader to officially acknowledge the 1992 Consensus.
March 2008: Kuomintang Victory in Taiwan
In March 2008, the Kuomintang, under Ma Ying-jeou, won the presidency and a legislative majority in Taiwan, prompting Hu Jintao to adopt a "soft" diplomatic approach towards Taiwan.
April 2008: Hu Jintao Meets with Vincent Siew
During the Boao Forum for Asia in April 2008, Hu Jintao met with Taiwan's vice president-elect, Vincent Siew, who was also the chairman of the Cross-strait Common Market Foundation. This meeting furthered the effort to improve relations between mainland China and Taiwan.
May 2008: Hu Jintao Meets with Wu Po-hsiung
In a historic event in May 2008, Hu Jintao met with KMT chairman Wu Po-hsiung, marking the first meeting between the heads of the CCP and KMT as ruling parties. During the meeting, both leaders agreed to resume official dialogue under the 1992 consensus.
2008: Hu Jintao's Legacy: Economic Growth and International Stature
During his time as paramount leader, which included the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Hu Jintao oversaw a period of consistent economic growth, steered China through the global financial crisis, and significantly elevated China's international standing.
2008: Scientific Development Concept Integrated into Constitutions
Further solidifying his policy direction, 2008 marked the year Hu Jintao's "Scientific Development Concept" was formally written into both the CCP and State Constitutions. This concept, promoting holistic solutions to complex challenges, cemented his legacy as a leader focused on comprehensive progress.
2008: Hu Jintao's Recognition in Time 100
Hu Jintao's influence extended beyond economic prowess; 2008 marked the first of his four appearances on the Time 100 list of most influential individuals. This recognition underscored his growing impact on the global stage.
2008: Promotion of "Eight Honors and Eight Shames" for 2008 Olympics
The year 2008 saw Hu Jintao's "Eight Honors and Eight Shames" prominently displayed in preparation for the Beijing Olympics. The widespread use of these moral guidelines, from classrooms to public spaces, underscored his efforts to establish a national ethos.
2009: Hu Jintao Ranked Among World's Most Powerful
Hu Jintao's global influence peaked in 2009 when Newsweek ranked him the second most powerful person globally, acknowledging his leadership of a rapidly growing Chinese economy. Forbes echoed this sentiment, also placing him second on their list of powerful figures.
2009: Hu Jintao Calls for Strengthened Arms Control at the UN
In 2009, at the United Nations General Assembly, Hu Jintao called for a stronger focus on arms control, echoing President Barack Obama's earlier advocacy for a world without nuclear weapons.
2010: Criticisms of Hu Jintao's Leadership
By 2010, critics argued that Hu Jintao's government had become overly assertive in its use of power, misjudged its global influence, and caused anxiety among neighboring nations, including those in Southeast Asia, as well as India, Japan, and the United States.
2010: Hu Jintao: From Most Powerful to Press Freedom Predator
Despite being named the World's Most Powerful Person by Forbes in 2010, the same year saw Hu Jintao facing criticism from Reporters Without Borders. The organization included him in their list of press freedom predators, highlighting the complexities and controversies surrounding his legacy.
2010: Continued Promotion of "Eight Honors and Eight Shames" for Expo 2010
Hu Jintao's efforts to promote the "Eight Honors and Eight Shames" continued into 2010, featuring prominently in materials for Expo 2010 in Shanghai. This sustained campaign illustrated the significance he placed on these moral precepts in shaping Chinese society.
2010: Hu Jintao's Legacy: Infrastructure, Space Exploration, and International Events
Hu Jintao's leadership, which encompassed the 2010 Shanghai Expo, was marked by substantial modernization of China's infrastructure, the launch of China's inaugural crewed space mission, and hosting two successful international events, bolstering the country's global image.
November 2012: Xi Jinping Succeeds Hu Jintao
Immediately following the 18th CCP National Congress in November 2012, Xi Jinping was elected general secretary of the CCP and chairman of the CMC, succeeding Hu Jintao.
2012: China's Economic Growth Under Hu Jintao
By 2012, China's economy had grown significantly, surpassing economies like the UK, France, Germany, and Japan. This growth was attributed to policies like liberalizing exchange rates and breaking the yuan's peg to the US dollar, leading to a 31% rise in the yuan's value against the dollar between 2005 and 2012.
2012: Hu Jintao Steps Down
Hu Jintao stepped down from his positions as General Secretary of the CCP and Chairman of the Central Military Commission in 2012.
March 2013: Xi Jinping Assumes Presidency
Xi Jinping succeeded Hu Jintao as the president of China in March 2013.
September 2013: Hu Jintao Visits Ancestral Home
Maintaining a low profile after retirement, Hu Jintao visited his ancestral home in Huangshan, Anhui, in September 2013, an event not covered by state media.
2013: End of Hu Jintao's Presidency
Hu Jintao's term as the President of China concluded in 2013.
April 2014: Hu Jintao Visits Hunan
Hu Jintao made a public appearance in Hunan in April 2014, visiting Hunan University and other historical sites.
October 2017: Hu Jintao Attends 19th CCP National Congress
Hu Jintao attended the 19th CCP National Congress in October 2017.
October 2019: Hu Jintao Attends 70th Anniversary of PRC
Hu Jintao was present at the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China in October 2019.
July 2021: Hu Jintao Attends CCP Centenary Celebration
In July 2021, Hu Jintao attended the celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party.
October 2022: Hu Jintao Escorted from CCP Congress
In an unprecedented incident at the closing ceremony of the 20th CCP National Congress in October 2022, Hu Jintao was escorted out of the hall. While Chinese state media attributed this to Hu feeling unwell, the incident sparked speculation about potential political motivations.
December 2022: Hu Jintao Attends Jiang Zemin's Funeral
Hu Jintao attended the funeral of his predecessor, Jiang Zemin, in December 2022, appearing alongside Xi Jinping at the farewell ceremony.
