The year 2026 marks the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March (1934-36), bringing renewed attention to the spirit of this defining chapter in Chinese history.
Beyond its place in the national memory as a declaration, a publicity force and "sower of seeds", the Long March continues to shape contemporary efforts to link revolutionary heritage with economic and social development.
Red tourism has emerged as a driver of rural vitalization and local economic growth. In Jiangxi, Guizhou and Sichuan provinces, the development of revolutionary sites and themed attractions has drawn visitors, boosted local services and encouraged improvements in infrastructure.
The resulting tourism revenue has also created opportunities to raise residents' incomes. Beyond its economic impact, red tourism offers a way to pass historical memory and revolutionary traditions on to new generations.
Local governments are also drawing on revolutionary history through educational programs and cultural activities. Schools, communities and enterprises organize events that introduce people to the country's revolutionary past and seek to strengthen patriotism and cultural confidence.
Preserving the legacy of the Long March is therefore not only about remembering history. By connecting revolutionary resources with local development and environmental goals, communities are exploring ways to carry its spirit into a new era.
