It must be taken into account that during these experiences Mao was Chairman of the Peoples' Republic of China. He had created a cult surrounding his personality, and ruled with severity. His excesses have since been denounced by successive leaders.

Acknowledging that a goal of the Marxist-Leninist philosophy is world communism, it appears that recently the Chinese government is turning its attention inward and could, in the future, possibly ascribe to a principle of peaceful coexistence with capitalist countries. However, inasmuch as no statement has ever been made regarding the abolishment of the goal of world communism, it behooves the capitalist countries, while maintaining a friendly posture toward the P R C, nevertheless to keep a wary eye on developments in that country.

It could be that a situation of coexistence will simply evolve over the years. However, it is likely that a declaration of such a departure from the party line would never be made publicly.

But whatever the case, and regardless of the sincere desire we might feel to live in harmony with the fine people of China, we cannot completely ignore history and the foundation of the Marxist-Lenninist regime.

Let us be hopeful but cautious.

Bill Baumer