Rare footage of General Xu Qinxian, a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) officer who defied orders during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, has surfaced online, providing unprecedented insight into his court martial. The six-hour video captures Xu's testimony as he recounts his refusal to deploy his troops against student protesters, a decision motivated by his desire to avoid becoming "a sinner in history."

Background of the Incident
The Tiananmen Square protests, which began in April 1989, saw thousands of students and citizens gather in Beijing to demand political reform and greater freedoms. The movement culminated in a brutal crackdown by the PLA on June 4, 1989, resulting in a significant loss of life. General Xu, who led the PLA's 38th Group Army, was ordered to take his 15,000 troops into the capital to enforce martial law. However, he chose to resist this order, citing his belief that the situation should be resolved through political dialogue rather than military force.

Details from the Footage
The leaked video, which has gained over 1.2 million views since its online release, was shared by historian Wu Renhua, who participated in the protests. In the footage, Xu articulates his concerns about the moral implications of deploying troops against civilians. He expressed his belief that the events constituted a "mass political incident" and emphasized the importance of a political resolution. His remarks highlight a rare moment of dissent within the military ranks during a time of national crisis.

Reactions from Historians and Activists
Zhou Fengsuo, a prominent figure in the Tiananmen demonstrations now living in exile, described the footage as a significant historical document. He stated that it confirms long-held beliefs about Xu's defiance and provides a first-person perspective on the events leading up to the massacre. Wu Renhua, who shared the footage, noted its importance for understanding the complexities of the military's role during the protests and the internal conflicts that existed at the time.

Impact on Historical Narrative
The Tiananmen Square massacre remains a highly sensitive topic in China, with the Communist Party maintaining strict censorship over discussions related to the event. The emergence of this footage may challenge the official narrative and provoke renewed interest in the historical events of 1989. As more individuals come forward with their accounts, the potential for a broader understanding of the protests and their aftermath increases.

Wrap-up
The leaked footage of General Xu Qinxian's court martial serves as a critical piece of evidence in understanding the military's response to the Tiananmen Square protests. His refusal to comply with orders highlights the moral dilemmas faced by military leaders during one of China's most turbulent periods. As discussions surrounding the Tiananmen Square events continue to evolve, this footage may play a significant role in shaping future narratives.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team