Li Zhisui

Li Zhisui was a Chinese physician and author known for his revealing memoir about his experiences as Mao Zedong's personal doctor. Born in 1919 in Beijing, Li pursued a medical career and eventually became Mao's physician from 1954 until the leader's death in 1976. His book, "The Private Life of Chairman Mao," published in 1994, offered unprecedented insight into Mao's health, habits, and leadership. The memoir provides a unique perspective on Chinese history and politics during a transformative period. Li Zhisui lived in the United States later in life, where he continued contributing to medical and historical discussions until his death in 1995.