Chinese academic under fire over ‘historical nihilism’ remarks

A prominent Chinese academic is facing a backlash after he apparently defended Beijing’s efforts to control historical narratives, a row that has erupted as the ruling Communist Party counts down to its centenary next week.

Photos showing key points from a January speech by Shanghai-based historian Ge Jianxiong were circulated on Chinese social media last week, setting off a rare public discussion about the party’s grip on the study of history.