Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Biography of Liu Xiaobo:
Liu Xiaobo (1955–2017):
Early Life:
Birth: Liu Xiaobo was born on December 28, 1955, in Changchun, Jilin Province, China.
He studied Chinese literature at Jilin University and later earned a Ph.D. in literature from Beijing Normal University.
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| Biography of Liu Xiaobo |
Academic Career:
Liu Xiaobo became a lecturer at Beijing Normal University after completing his studies.
His academic pursuits were often intertwined with his activism, and he wrote extensively on political and social issues.
Liu Xiaobo's Political Activism:
Liu Xiaobo was a prominent figure during the pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989. He played a key role in mediating between the government and the students.
After the government crackdown on the Tiananmen Square protests, Liu was detained and subsequently spent time in prison.
Imprisonment:
Liu Xiaobo was imprisoned multiple times for his activism and writings that called for political reform and greater respect for human rights in China.
His most notable period of imprisonment was from 2009 until his death in 2017. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison for "inciting subversion of state power."
Nobel Peace Prize to Liu Xiaobo:
In 2010, Liu Xiaobo was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize while still in prison. The Chinese government strongly opposed the decision, and Liu was unable to attend the award ceremony.
The Nobel Committee awarded him the prize "for his long and nonviolent struggle for fundamental human rights in China."
Death:
Liu Xiaobo was diagnosed with late-stage liver cancer while in prison. He was released on medical parole but remained under heavy surveillance.
He died on July 13, 2017, at the age of 61, in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China.
Legacy of Liu Xiaobo:
Liu Xiaobo is remembered as a courageous advocate for democracy, human rights, and freedom of speech in China.
His writings, including the widely known "Charter 08," continue to inspire activists and advocates for political reform in China.
Liu Xiaobo's life and death have drawn international attention to the human rights situation in China and the ongoing struggle for democracy.
Liu Xiaobo's legacy reflects his commitment to principles of democracy and human rights, and he remains an influential figure in the global conversation on these issues.