Fujian man, 99, recalls Red Army's lasting impact

"Men and women should both go to school. Discrimination against women is unacceptable," Cao recalled being taught.

Women accounted for about one-third of the students, according to local accounts, and classes were taught by both villagers and Red Army cadres. It was there that Cao learned the song he can still sing today. He also learned to write, often copying revolutionary slogans supporting the Soviet government established in the area.

Today, 34 Red Army slogans remain visible on the earthen walls of ancestral halls in the village, offering a physical link to the revolutionary years.

Cao receives a monthly government pension for elderly rural residents and spends much of his time at home or at the local seniors' association, watching television and keeping company with other older villagers.

"Life today is much better than before," he said.