Was Deng Xiaoping one of the greatest leaders in history?

Without doubt, one of the greatest leaders.

The step to reform the country against a dominant ideology to save the country from breakup requires immense courage, vision, determination and diligence. Deng has it all.

Without his courage and willingness to change from “Communist” to “Socialism with Chinese characteristics” China will be in extreme poverty today and perhaps by that time the CCP might well be gone. It does not mean the fall of CCP is a good thing however, rather the China today might be brought down by a devastating civil war.

Despite his rather disappointing handling of the Tiananmen Square incident, his achievements in saving China is unquestionable.

Deng did it, all because of his courage, vision, determination and diligence.

Even the international world recognize it.

The late Lee-Kuan-Yew, the leader of Singapore, one of the most trusted and valued Asian Leaders by the Western Nations was asked by Western reporters that who was the greatest leader of all time. They expected Franklin D Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, Margaret Thatcher, Winston Churchill and Ronald Regan. His reply puzzled them - “Deng Xiaoping”. When he was asked why, he replied “because his is willing to be open minded.” He meant that Deng Xiaoping accepted his suggestion to stop spreading Maoism to encourage investment, despite his anger due to this suggestion betraying Mao’s policy (He is still supportive of him).

After years of passing away, he is still remembered for his efforts in uplifting an astronomical number of people out of poverty. Even the UN lowered half of its flag and the General Secretary of the UN Kofi Annan praised him as a means of respect. This is the highest honor that one leader could ever asked for - recognition from the UN.

That alone speaks how great Deng Xiaoping is.

To me, he is even greater than Mao, for his willingness to reform and brave forward.

Rest in peace, Deng Xiaoping. The Chinese people will never forget your courage and vision. We shall carry on your legacy - to create a prosperous and powerful China.

PS: The Lee Kuan Yew comment is just a rough translation. Also it is Kofi Annan that made the comment. Deng Xiaoping is also praised by Canada, French and British Leaders at that time. Even the Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) send its condolences to him.

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Henry Leung on Quora:

• When will China's Communist Party collapse?

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