The People's Republic of China is commonly referred to as China. Since its origin in 1949, it has been led by the Communist Party of China (CPC).

According to its constitution, China is a socialist country. Yet China has continued to let private citizens run businesses for the past three decades.

The Chinese government retains control over the economy. Politically, China is a one-party state. It is very strict.

After World War II, there was a Civil War between the Communist Party of China and the Kuomintang. This war ended in 1949. The Communists took control of mainland China. The Kuomintang took control of Taiwan. On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong declared the People's Republic of China.

Supporters of the Maoist Era claim that under his leadership, China's unity and independence was guaranteed for the first time in a century. China developed it communications, roads, industry, healthcare, and education. The wages for the average Chinese went up.

Many Chinese also believe that projects such as the “Great Leap Forward” and the “Cultural Revolution” were important in improving their growth and culture.

There were dramatic economic failures in the early 1960s. Mao stepped down from his position as chairman of the People's Republic. The National People's Congress elected Liu Shaoqi. Mao remained head of the Party. He was removed from day to day management.

Even with compromises to capitalism, the Communist Party of China remains in control of many aspect of day to day life. Challengers claim their policies violate most human rights. They also claim that the result is a police state.

The People's Republic of China adopted its current constitution on December 4, 1982.