| Abstract | Ever since it was declared a special economic zone in 1980, Shenzhen has been laboratory, symbol and bellwether of China's economic reforms. Its construction cranes and sleek skycrapers seemed emblematic of the country's opening to the world and its headlong rush to become a business powerhouse. When Deng Xiaoping wanted to fire up reform amid the deep chill following the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown, it was natural that he should do so from Shenzhen. Shortly after his landmark "Southern Tour" of early 1992, the whole country was again in the grip of reform forever. History is likely to judge that his last significant political act. |
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