Xi Jinping

Xi Jinping, born in 1953, is the first Chinese leader born after 1949 and is considered a “princeling,” the son of a revolutionary veteran. During the Cultural Revolution, he was “sent down” to work as a farmer in Shaanxi, even running away from the hard labor once. He is married to Peng Liyuan, a very famous Chinese folk singer.

Key Facts About Xi Jinping
“Sent Down” Youth: From 1969 to 1975, he worked in the countryside in Liangjiahe, Shaanxi, performing manual labor, which he has described as a character-building experience.

Farm Worker and Farmer: While working in the countryside, he was known for reading books and served as a branch Party secretary in his village.

Academic Background: He holds a degree in chemical engineering from Tsinghua University and a doctorate in law.

Iowa Connection: In 1985, he visited Muscatine, Iowa, for a two-week study tour on agricultural technology, even sleeping in a local resident’s home. He later returned to Iowa in 2012.

Famous Wife: His wife, Peng Liyuan, was actually more famous than him for her singing career before his political ascension, often appearing on the Chinese CCTV New Year’s Gala.

Called a Princeling: His father, Xi Zhongxun, was a prominent reformer and vice premier.

Short-Track Speed Skating Enthusiast? He once compared scientific and technological competition to short-track speed skating, stating that those who can skate faster and maintain high speed longest win.

Pseudonym Daughter: His daughter, Xi Mingze, attended Harvard University under a fake name to avoid attention.