Nien Cheng

Nien Cheng was a Chinese author and political dissident known for her powerful autobiography, "Life and Death in Shanghai." Born in Beijing in 1915, she later studied in the United Kingdom. During Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution, Cheng was imprisoned for over six years, enduring harsh conditions and interrogations after being falsely accused of espionage. Her resilience and unwavering spirit during this period became the foundation of her gripping memoir, which detailed her harrowing experiences and reflections on human rights and freedom. After her release, Cheng relocated to the United States, continuing her advocacy for democratic reforms in China until her death in 2009.