Feel the weight of history. This is the Peking University Revolutionary Martyrs Monument.
Before you stands a testament to sacrifice. A memorial to those who gave their lives for China’s revolution. It was erected on May 4 1993. This was the 95th anniversary of Peking University’s founding. The monument commemorates 96 Peking University students and faculty. They died fighting for their beliefs. They perished during the May Fourth Movement the New Democratic Revolution and the Korean War.
The monument’s design is striking. Five differently sized blocks of marble rise towards the heavens. They represent the spirit of May Fourth. The highest point is four meters above ground. The inscription on the front is powerful. Chen Yun a prominent revolutionary wrote the words “Peking University Revolutionary Martyrs Monument”. The back lists the names birthplaces and death dates of the 96 martyrs. Li Dazhao a revolutionary pioneer heads the list. Smooth polished marble contrasts with the rough-hewn edges of the stone. This symbolizes the passage of time. The names etched into the stone are a permanent record. Their contributions will never be forgotten. The overall shape resembles a heart. A fitting symbol for those who gave everything for their ideals.
Donations from students and faculty funded the monument. Even amidst hardship they contributed generously. Zhang Qian a student single-handedly donated 500 yuan. Fellow students from the university’s environmental studies department provided labor. They used their skills to aid in the project’s completion. The monument is more than just stone. It is a symbol of unity sacrifice and unwavering dedication.
This memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance. Stand here and feel the weight of history. Honor those whose courage changed the course of a nation. This is their legacy. Let’s move on to the next part of our tour.