Qia Tongxue Shaonian

In 1913, the renowned educator Kong Zhaoshou assumed the role of principal at Hunan No. 1 Normal School in Changsha, initiating sweeping educational reforms. By recruiting exceptional domestic and international instructors, including Yang Changji, he transformed the institution into a beacon of modern learning. This revitalized academy drew numerous ambitious applicants, among them nineteen-year-old Mao Zedong, who secured admission with top honors. Within this historic setting, Mao forged deep bonds with fellow idealistic students such as Cai Hesen and Xiao Zisheng. Their intellectual circle soon expanded to include female scholars from the nearby Zhounan Women's Normal School—Tao Siyong, Xiang Jingyu, and Yang Kaihui—who shared their progressive vision. Together, they established a reading club that served as a vibrant hub for debate, mutual growth, and ideological exploration. However, the era's political turbulence inevitably shattered their academic sanctuary. Amid widespread opposition to Sino-Japanese collusion, the ruthless warlord Tang Xiangming intervened, forcibly ousting Principal Kong and nearly orchestrating Mao Zedong’s arrest. Confronted by such brutal realities, Mao found his steadfast belief in saving the nation through education and gradual reform profoundly shaken, forcing him to reconsider the path forward for himself and his country.