Early Life and Education

Ulanhu was born into a Mongol family and joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1925. He studied Marxism at Moscow Sun Yat-sen University, where he built connections with future Chinese leaders. His early political activities centered on revolutionary movements in Inner Mongolia.

Political Career

Founding Chairman of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (1947–1966): Played a key role in establishing China’s first autonomous region, ensuring ethnic unity and economic development.

Vice Premier of China (1956–1966): Influenced national policy during a critical phase of China’s socialist construction.

Cultural Revolution: Purged in 1966 and accused of separatism, he spent years under political investigation.

Rehabilitation: Returned to politics in the 1970s, later becoming Head of the United Front Work Department (1977–1982).

Vice President of China (1983–1988): Focused on ethnic unity and minority rights at the national level.

Military Rank

Ulanhu was awarded the title of General (Shangjiang) in 1955, one of the few founding generals of the People’s Republic of China.

Legacy

Ulanhu remains a symbol of Mongol-Chinese solidarity. His political legacy continued through his family:

Buhe (son): Chairman of Inner Mongolia in the 1980s–1990s.

Bu Xiaolin (granddaughter): Chairwoman of Inner Mongolia since 2016.

Monuments include the Ulanhu Memorial Hall in Hohhot and his restored former residence, both important “red tourism” destinations.