Wang Li; Helped Lead China’s Cultural Revolution

Wang Li, 76, who aided Mao Tse-tung in launching the chaos of China’s Cultural Revolution. The operation from 1966 to 1976 persecuted tens of millions of people. But during attacks on Communist leaders, Wang fell out of favor with Mao and was imprisoned without charges from 1967 to 1980. For years, he sought to be exonerated of his political wrongdoing, but the party never fully rehabilitated him. Last year, in an interview with an American newspaper, Wang denied ever inciting violence and said he was used as a scapegoat for others. But historical reports describe him as a leading figure who helped bring down other party officials. Wang’s speeches stirred up violence by youthful Red Guards who supported Mao’s radical policies. The Red Guards denounced and beat intellectuals and destroyed much of China’s cultural heritage. On Monday in Beijing.