Beschreibung:

MAO ZEDONG (1893-1976). Mao Zhuxi Yulu . [Quotations from Chairman Mao Zedong.] Text in Chinese. [Shenyang: Political Department, Air Force Division, probably autumn 1963]. A rare prototype of the iconic "Little Red Book," longer than the 1964 version by 100 pages. Mao's quotations were published for mass distribution to the People's Liberation Army in 1964 in an abbreviated version of 30 chapters with 250 pages, quickly becoming the most widely-read book in China. It includes, as here, an endorsement from Lin Baio, head of national defense and Mao's intended successor. That endorsement was removed from all further editions after rumors spread of an assassination plot against Mao by Lin, forcing Lin and his family to flee. Although the claim of a plot was never substantiated, Lin's plane was shot down over Mongolia in September 1971. This precursor issue was assembled under Lin Baio's leadership and contains 64 sections in 351 pages. Baio's endorsement is likewise longer in this issue, printed in red ink in four lines and reading: "Everyone should study the Chairman's writings, follow his teachings, act according to his instructions and be Chairman Mao's good soldier" (in translation). The later version removed the reference to being "Mao's good soldier." This prototype is known in two versions, one dated December 1963 and one, as here, undated. Guo Dongpeng, Outline for Cataloguing Mao Zedong's Works , p. 71; Schiller, Mao , 1d (dated version). 16mo (120 x 87mm). Title and endorsement printed in red. Original cream wrappers printed in red and with red star (some light creasing and soiling).