Jiang Qing's public trial began on November 20, 1980.
On November 20, 1980, the trial of Jiang Qing and the Gang of Four commenced as one of China’s first nationally televised political trials. This trial was significant because it provided the public with unprecedented access to judicial proceedings, marking a new era in Chinese transparency for high-profile cases. Jiang Qing’s spirited defense of her actions during the Cultural Revolution captivated viewers, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the political elite. This event underscored the significant political shift from the grips of Maoist extremism towards more moderated governance.