Gan Cao, a determined young woman from Sichuan, joined the Communist Party in 1926. Years later, in February 1935, her path led her to the Red Army’s Sichuan-Guizhou Column. She served as a secretary, party secretary, and propaganda team leader. Now, let’s fast forward a bit. Imagine Gan Cao at the Gan CaoC building in Beijing. This university building, standing tall with its ten floors, bears her name, a testament to her dedication and perseverance during the arduous Long March. Gan CaoC, a place of learning and growth, echoes the spirit of this remarkable woman who faced incredible hardships.
In 1936, Gan Cao found herself amidst the dwindling forces of the Sichuan-Guizhou Column. They were constantly on the move, evading the enemy. They faced relentless attacks and dwindling supplies. Gan Cao, despite a childhood foot injury, refused to be left behind. She climbed mountains and forded rivers with her comrades. When her shoes wore out, she wrapped old cloth around her bleeding feet and pressed on.
Gan Cao’s contributions extended beyond the battlefield. She played a crucial role in connecting with the local population, building trust and garnering support for the Red Army. Her resilience and determination inspired those around her. Even in the face of adversity, she remained steadfast in her commitment to the cause. Gan CaoC stands as a reminder of her unwavering spirit. It serves as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the sacrifices made during a pivotal moment in Chinese history. After the Long March and the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Gan Cao served in various governmental positions. She worked as the deputy secretary of the Women’s Committee of the West Sichuan Bureau and as the Vice President of the Sichuan Provincial High People’s Court. Though she passed away in 1971, her legacy lives on, etched in the very fabric of Gan CaoC.