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Today in History: Red Guards Vandalize Jokhang, Tibet's Holiest Temple

8/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In 1966 Mao Zedong launched the Cultural Revolution, mobilizing student Red Guards to eradicate “capitalist” and traditional influences. During the movement’s first phase, the Guards stormed Lhasa’s Jokhang—built circa 640 as Tibet’s spiritual heart—and defaced its sacred Buddha statues, striking a blow against Tibetan Buddhism.

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Story summary

In 1966 Mao Zedong launched the Cultural Revolution, mobilizing student Red Guards to eradicate “capitalist” and traditional influences. During the movement’s first phase, the Guards stormed Lhasa’s Jokhang—built circa 640 as Tibet’s spiritual heart—and defaced its sacred Buddha statues, striking a blow against Tibetan Buddhism.