The Youth of Classmates

In 1913, in Changsha, Hunan, renowned educator Kong Zhaoshou became the principal of the First Normal School of Hunan. He vigorously promoted educational reforms and hired outstanding teachers like Yang Changji, transforming the school. The revamped institution attracted many students, including 19-year-old Mao Zedong, who enrolled as the top candidate. During their studies, Mao Zedong, Cai Hesen, Xiao Zisheng, and other idealistic youths formed strong friendships. Simultaneously, students from the Zhou Nan Private Women's Normal School, such as Tao Siyong, Xiang Jingyu, and Yang Kaihui, joined them based on shared interests. A progressive study group became the hub of their intellectual exchanges. However, political turmoil disrupted their academic lives. In the fight against Sino-Japanese rapprochement, warlord Tang Xiangming forced out Kong, and Mao narrowly escaped arrest, shaking his faith in educational reform.