恰同学少年

In 1913, in Changsha, Hunan, the renowned educator Kong Zhaoshou assumed the role of principal at Hunan First Normal School. He vigorously promoted modern educational reforms, hiring outstanding teachers from both China and abroad, represented by Yang Changji, revitalizing the school. The renewed institution attracted numerous students to apply, and the 19-year-old Mao Zedong gained admission to this thousand-year-old academy with the highest score. During their shared academic life, Mao Zedong, Cai Hesen, Xiao Zisheng, and other aspiring young men forged deep friendships. Meanwhile, female students from Hunan Private Zhounan Women’s Normal School, such as Tao Siyong, Xiang Jingyu, and Yang Kaihui, also connected with them due to shared ideals and interests. A reading group formed by these progressive young students became a nexus for learning, exchange, and intellectual discourse. However, the turbulent times disrupted the students’ campus life. During the struggle against Sino-Japanese rapprochement, the warlord Tang Xiangming used force to drive Principal Kong away, and Mao Zedong narrowly escaped arrest. The harsh realities led Mao Zedong to question his belief in saving the nation through education and reformism.