These annotations appear in the book The Socialist Upsurge in China’s Countryside. They were written in September and December 1955, and some of them have lost none of their relevance even today.

One passage states: “It is inappropriate to say that 1955 was the year in which the decisive battle between socialism and capitalism achieved a basic victory.” Rather, it should be said that 1955 marked a basic victory in the sphere of the forms of ownership that constitute the relations of production. As for other aspects of the relations of production, as well as certain facets of the superstructure—namely, the ideological front and the political front—basic victory had either not yet been attained or had not yet been fully secured; further effort would be required.

We did not anticipate the enormous upheavals that would occur on the international stage in 1956, nor did we foresee the “anti-‘leftist’ exaggeration” campaign at home that dampened the masses’ enthusiasm. Both of these developments had a considerable impact on the right wing’s rampant offensive.

The lesson to be drawn is this: the socialist revolution and socialist construction are by no means smooth sailing. We must be prepared to confront many major difficulties that may arise both internationally and domestically. Whether viewed from an international or a domestic perspective, the overall situation remains favorable—this is beyond doubt; however, numerous serious difficulties are bound to arise, and we must make ready to meet them.