Victor Hugo is a rare Western author who has maintained a positive image in China, particularly for denouncing the destruction of the Old Summer Palace in Beijing during the Second Opium War, stating, "How can we claim to be civilized when we've destroyed one of the great creations of civilization?"

The Chinese Communist Party's narrative of national humiliation influences its stance in international relations, particularly in the context of trade wars and foreign criticism.

The Chinese government has a history of disappearing individuals who challenge its authority, as exemplified by the fate of the 'Tank Man' and other protest figures.

Xi Jinping's leadership has seen a narrowing of acceptable variations of Chinese identity, contrasting with the post-Tiananmen period that allowed more civil society space.

Xi Jinping and Mao Zedong both have been subjects of intense personality cults, with Xi being the first leader since Mao to have a sustained cult of personality in China.

The One China Policy is a complex issue, with the U.S. officially recognizing it while simultaneously opposing China's actions regarding Taiwan.

Despite censorship, many students from mainland China demonstrate incredible free-thinking abilities, suggesting that the system is more porous than often perceived.

The case of Guo Wengui, a Hong Kong bookseller who was kidnapped and remains imprisoned in China, illustrates the risks faced by those who publish works critical of the Chinese Communist Party.

In Thailand, strict laws against criticizing the monarchy create a dangerous environment for free speech, illustrating the complexities of discussing sensitive political issues in various Asian countries.