Is Hua Guofeng A-List?
No — Hua Guofeng is currently ranked D tier — a minor public figure with limited fame outside a small audience.
Reached A-list in 1976
Mao's Successor Appointed
Lost A-list status in 1978
Dropped to B tier — Deng Xiaoping Gains Influence
Ranking Timeline
Rising Provincial Official
Gains prominence within Hunan province's Communist Party structure.
Mao's Successor Appointed
Appointed Chairman of CCP and Premier, inheriting Mao's power.
Endorses 'Two Whatevers' Policy
Initially continues Maoist policies, limiting reforms.
Deng Xiaoping Gains Influence
Deng Xiaoping starts consolidating power, challenging Hua's leadership.
Removed as Premier
Replaced by Zhao Ziyang, signaling a shift in leadership.
Removed as CCP Chairman
Hua is replaced by Hu Yaobang, losing his last major role.
Dies in Obscurity
Hua passes away, largely forgotten despite his brief time at the top.
Forgotten Figure
His role in China's history is diminished; remembered as transitional figure.
Last updated: February 25, 2026