Shanghai: Post-Maoist Economic Reform (00:57)

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The Chinese government transforms Shanghai into an economic, financial, and cultural capital of the Eastern world. Shanghai must emulate the Western world in order to compete with it.

Shanghai: From Colonial Period to Now (02:14)

Shanghai emulates the West in order to compete with it. During the colonial period, Shanghai was known for its prostitution and opium halls. Shanghai thrived after the handover of Hong Kong.

History of Shanghai Economics (05:08)

Shanghai’s geography helped it grow economically. Since colonization its financial district has been called the Bund. Economics were affected by the 1920s communist party and 1940s Mao regime.

Shanghai: Its Economic Transformation (05:28)

Remodeling was part of Shanghai’s transformation. Its port is the largest in China. Pudong was built in the 1980s as its financial district, where the Jin Mao Building and Oriental Pearl TV Tower are located.

Shanghai: Improved Living Conditions (03:01)

Shanghai authorities relocated hundreds of residents to bigger houses on the outskirts of the city. Now more people have a chance to own their home. The distance between rich and poor widens.

Shanghai Stock Exchange (05:27)

The establishment of the Shanghai Stock Exchange in 1990 liberalized public companies. The Chinese love of gambling and their distrust of banks lead to many investing privately in the stock market.

Employment in Shanghai (05:11)

Employment is readily available for those under 40 who are well qualified. Farmer immigrants increase unemployment and social tensions. The Cultural Revolution generation lost marketable skills.

Technical Employment in Shanghai (03:17)

High technology opens international competition. Most Shanghai companies have difficulties finding experts in finance and management. Spain helps Shanghai train managers in the Western style.

Shanghai: A New City and New Society (03:46)

Shanghai registers negative growth. Many do not marry. Others trade ancient ceremonial rites for Western-style weddings. Shanghai is an easy-going, new society of consumerism and fast food.

Nightlife in Today's Shanghai (02:14)

Shanghai’s nightlife has a renewed vitality. The elite go to the Shanghai Grand Opera Theatre in the heart of the city, the People’s Square. Cafes and discos are taken over by younger inhabitants.

Shanghai: Traditions and Customs (03:12)

Echoes of tradition and spiritual legacy are present in Shanghai. Buddhism and Taoism remain alive in secular Shanghai. Old Chinese gardens and a traditional neighboring town maintain its customs.

Modernizing Shanghai (04:51)

Shanghai’s younger generations keep some traditions such as family but also accept Western culture. They choose economic freedom over political freedom but most want more democracy.

Shanghai: Impact of Two Generations (04:02)

Shanghai's economic change came in the 1970s. The 1980s generation is directing its political change. They are more self-confident and know how to create their own career opportunities.