The Cultural Revolution was a sociopolitical movement in China from 1966 to 1976 initiated by Chairman Mao Zedong. Its primary objective was to preserve communist ideology by purging remnants of capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society. The movement led to widespread social, political, and economic upheaval, where millions were persecuted, and cultural artifacts were destroyed. It aimed to consolidate Mao's power, but resulted in chaos, educational disruptions, and significant human suffering. The Cultural Revolution profoundly affected China's development and remains a controversial topic in its modern history.