“Love my China repair my Great Wall” This inscription etched on the stele before us speaks volumes. It’s a testament to a remarkable period in Chinese history. A time when the nation rallied together to restore its majestic Great Wall.
This stele commemorates the “Love my China repair my Great Wall” social fundraising campaign. This initiative began in 1984. It aimed to restore sections of the Great Wall particularly in the Badaling area. The campaign was launched by several newspapers including the Beijing Evening News. The then-leader of the CCP Zhao Ziyang and Yao Yilin supported the campaign. They even penned the slogan themselves.
The campaign resonated deeply within the hearts of the Chinese people. People from all walks of life contributed. Donations poured in from individuals and organizations. Even overseas Chinese and international visitors contributed. Some foreign visitors found their names inscribed on commemorative steles. The total amount raised was a staggering 28 million yuan.
Imagine the sheer scale of the effort. Thousands of workers toiled tirelessly. They meticulously repaired damaged sections. They reconstructed crumbling walls. They used traditional materials and techniques whenever possible. The Badaling section of the Great Wall particularly benefited from the massive undertaking. Before the restoration much of the wall was in ruins. Parts were reduced to mere rubble or just a few broken sections of wall remained.
The campaign wasn’t just about bricks and mortar. It was a symbol of national pride. A symbol of collective action. It fostered a renewed sense of patriotism. It was a powerful reminder of the historical and cultural importance of the Great Wall. This campaign became a model for community-driven restoration projects in China. The legacy continues to this day.
This “Love my China repair my Great Wall” stele stands as a proud monument. It represents a period of national unity and dedication. It reminds us of the enduring spirit of the Chinese people. It also shows us their commitment to preserving their invaluable cultural heritage. Take a moment to reflect on this legacy. Let the inscription’s simple power resonate within you. Remember the spirit of the campaign. A campaign to love and repair the Great Wall. A campaign that unified China.