What Would Be Destroyed? - Four Olds Campaign by Daniela Fernanda CHUMÁN CASTILLO

Buddhist Religious Statue

danielachuman — 2025-05-19 23:38:49 UTC

A statue of Buddha would be considered an "Old" during the Cultural Revolution because it represented traditional religious beliefs, which were seen as part of the "old ideas" and "old culture" that the Communist Party wanted to eliminate. Religion was considered a threat to communist ideology because it encouraged spiritual devotion instead of loyalty to the Party. This kind of item had an important cultural and historical value, as Buddhist statues are not only religious symbols, but also examples of ancient Chinese art and craftsmanship. They reflect the country's spiritual traditions and its connection to meditation, peace and moral teachings. When such an item is destroyed, what is lost is not only a piece of art, but also a long link to a long history of cultural identity and beliefs. It damages the memory of past generations and erases part of the country's traditional religion.

Traditional Qipao Dress

danielachuman — 2025-05-19 23:47:36 UTC

The traditional qipao dress would be seen as an "Old" during the Cultural Revolution because it represented "old costumes" and "old habits" linked to China's pre-revolutionary society. This clothing was often associated with femineity, elegance and the upper class, which went against the Communist ideal of equality and simplicity. The qipao also symbolized traditional gender roles, which the revolution wanted to eliminate in favor of a more uniform, collective identity. The qipao, culturally and historically, had great value as a unique piece of Chinese fashion, reflecting artistic design, identity and the history of Chinese women. When this item is destroyed, what is lost is an expression of cultural heritage, as it erases the beauty and individuality of traditional clothing, and breaks the connection with past generations.

Traditional Chinese Astrological Calendar

danielachuman — 2025-05-20 00:04:04 UTC

A traditional Chinese astrological calendar would be seen as an "Old" during the Cultural Revolution because it was based on ancient beliefs, astrology and superstitions that went against the Communist Party's scientific and modern ideas. The calendar, which included zodiac signs and fortune-telling, represented "old ideas" and was often used in daily life to plan events, marriages and more according to spiritual meanings. It had strong cultural and historical value, as it reflected how Chinese people understood time, nature and their connection to the universe for thousands of years. When the calendars are destroyed, a deep part of the cultural identity gets lost. What disappeared was not just a tool for marking dates, but a symbol of traditional wisdom, astrological knowledge and spiritual guidance that had been passed down through generations.