The purpose of the Cultural Revolution in China, initiated by Mao Zedong in 1966, was to reaffirm Communist ideology and eliminate capitalist influences. It aimed to instill a sense of revolutionary fervor among the youth while dismantling traditional cultural and social structures, which were seen as obstacles to building a communist society. The movement led to widespread social upheaval, persecution of intellectuals, and the destruction of cultural heritage. Ultimately, it sought to consolidate Mao's power and reassert the Communist Party's control over Chinese society.