Restoring National Pride: The Successful Detonation of China’s First Atomic and Hydrogen Bombs

This book tells the story of the successful explosions of China’s first atomic and hydrogen bombs. It covers the development of nuclear weapons: Mao Zedong’s determination to develop nuclear weapons; a Central Committee meeting to discuss atomic energy; China’s efforts to obtain Soviet nuclear technology; prospecting for promising uranium deposits in restricted areas; selecting and building nuclear research and development bases; appointing a commander for the atomic bomb test site; setting up tents for explosive tests; completing the theoretical design for the nuclear bomb; Deng Jiaxian taking on a heavy burden under an assumed identity; research institutes overcoming the challenge of designing the bomb’s core; researchers enduring difficult living conditions; and Zhang Aiping traveling to the northwest to conduct investigations. The successful atomic bomb test: Mao Zedong approving the Second Ministry of Machine Building’s report; Zhou Enlai doing everything possible to support development work; establishing and enforcing strict secrecy measures; Li Jue protecting experts at the development site; Mao Zedong saying the nuclear bomb should be tested as soon as possible; the safe delivery of atomic bomb components to the base; making every effort to prepare for the test; Li Jue feeling the weight of responsibility before the explosion; the successful explosion of China’s first atomic bomb; and Guo Hongli leading his flight crew through the clouds to collect samples. Developing thermonuclear weapons: the Central Committee making plans for hydrogen bomb development; Qian Sanqiang preparing for the project; Zhou Guangzhao discovering a problem in the hydrogen bomb blueprints; a surge in theoretical research on hydrogen bombs; Yu Min leading a calculation team to Shanghai; homegrown experts overcoming theoretical obstacles; discussing and confirming Yu Min’s proposal; working together to complete the final theoretical push; the successful thermonuclear test of the hydrogen bomb; Zhang Zhenhuan’s deep concern for the test; Nie Rongzhen guiding the team through difficulties; Chen Nengkuan installing the detonator; a breakthrough in the hydrogen bomb principle test; and Nie Rongzhen spending New Year’s Day at the base. The successful airdrop test of the hydrogen bomb: the base beginning preparations for the airdrop test, Cheng Kaijia accepting the airdrop test assignment, and more.