Having consolidated his power, Mao initiated a collectivization program that lasted until 1958. The lands were redistributed, after being expropriated from landowners and handed over to the peasants for cultivation. Large industrialization projects and infrastructure construction were also initiated to facilitate the economic and social changes that were to be carried out. During this period, China had an annual growth in GNP between 4 and 9%.
Why quit our own to Stand upon Foreign ground? It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent Alliances with any portion of the foreign world.....' -George Washington
