Shaking Hands with China’s Second Most Powerful Man

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Bill Hodes was an American school child in 1950s Revolutionary China and this is the second part of his story.  You can listen to episode 1 here. Among many stories we hear how he had the unique opportunity to meet one of China’s most revered leaders, Zhou Enlai, the first Premier of the People’s Republic of China and how he played softball with US and British POWs from the Korea War who had refused to return home.

Bill reflects on the challenges he faced, including moments of cultural misunderstanding and the playful jabs from classmates who labelled him an “American imperialist.” These interactions highlight the complexities of identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world.

Returning to the U.S. after years abroad, he faced the challenge of reintegrating into American life, where customs and norms had shifted. Yet, his experiences abroad had equipped him with a unique perspective that would shape his future endeavors in law and education.

The narrative takes a poignant turn as he recounts his involvement in the Mississippi Freedom Summer, a significant civil rights initiative aimed at combating racial injustice. His commitment to activism and social justice is palpable, as he shares stories of courage and determination in the face of adversity.

 

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