AI Overview The "bio" of Mao by his doctor is found in the book The Private Life of Chairman Mao: The Memoirs of Mao's Personal Physician by Dr. Li Zhisui. The memoir was published in 1994 and describes Dr. Li's 22 years as Mao's physician, revealing details about his personal life, political decisions, and physical health, and offers a critical perspective on the leader and his inner circle. About the author and the book Dr. Li Zhisui was Mao's personal physician from 1954 until Mao's death in 1976. He was born in Beijing in 1919 and was trained as a doctor. After emigrating to the United States, he wrote The Private Life of Chairman Mao. The book is considered by some to be the most revealing account of Mao ever published. Dr. Li died in 1995 at the age of 75, shortly after the book's publication. Content of the book Personal life: Describes Mao's sexual appetite, his indifference to the suffering of others, and the "decadent" and "luxurious" nature of his inner court. It also details his personal habits, such as his refusal to wash or dress. Political decisions: Provides insight into Mao's reasoning behind key political decisions, including the Great Leap Forward and the shelling of Taiwanese islands. Foreign relations: Details Mao's complex relationship with Soviet leaders like Khrushchev and explains how he initiated contact with the U.S. that led to President Nixon's visit to China. Health: Discusses Mao's physical decline, sexual health, and dependence on drugs. Other leaders: Offers portraits of other Chinese leaders, such as Zhou Enlai. Post-death events: Describes the events following Mao's death.