The leader of China during the Cultural Revolution was Mao Zedong. Initiated in 1966, the Cultural Revolution aimed to reinforce Mao's ideology of communism and eliminate capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society. Mao sought to promote his vision through mass mobilization, particularly involving students known as Red Guards, who were encouraged to challenge authority and engage in acts of political violence. The Cultural Revolution led to widespread social, political, and economic upheaval, significantly impacting Chinese society and the Communist Party. It officially ended in 1976 after Mao's death, leaving lasting effects on China.