This week Four Corners unpacks the rise of Xi Jinping, China's most dominant leader since Mao Zedong, and the global consequences of his rule.
With rare access and deep reporting, Frontline correspondent Martin Smith investigates Xi's path to power, his ideological vision, and how he has reshaped China's relationship with the world.
Once dismissed as a compromise leader, Xi Jinping seized total control through a ruthless anti-corruption campaign, silencing dissent and tightening the Party's grip.
His "China Dream" envisions a dominant China—militarily, technologically, and on the world stage.
But Xi's grip is being tested.
Economic instability, mass protests, and international pushback challenge his vision for a resurgent China.
As tensions over Taiwan escalate and China's future grows uncertain, The Power of Xi reveals the stakes of his rule—for China, the U.S., and the world.
This is a highly edited version of the Frontline episode:
China, The U.S. & the Rise of Xi Jinping
that was broadcast in November 2024.
The Frontline episode runs for 114 mins, whilst the 4C version runs for 44 mins.