Li Guowei

Li Guowei (1893-1978), a native of Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, graduated from Tangshan Mining and Engineering School (now Southwest Jiaotong University) with a degree in Civil Engineering. In his early years, he participated in railway construction. In 1919, he was invited by Rong Zongjing to help establish Fuxin's Fifth Flour Mill, marking the beginning of his journey in industrial pursuits to serve the nation. Later, he also served as deputy manager of the Fourth Factory of Shenxin Textile Company, becoming an important leader within the Fuxin and Shenxin systems. During the Anti-Japanese War, he advocated for businesses to relocate inland, establishing factories in Chongqing, Baoji, and other locations, including Qingxin Spinning Mill and Flour Mill, promoting self-reliance and supporting war effort materials production. After the founding of New China, Li Guowei responded to the government's call, leading the transformation of enterprises into mixed public-private ventures, becoming one of the pioneers of such enterprises in the new country. He held various positions, including Vice Chairman of Hubei Provincial Government, Standing Committee Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Deputy of the National People's Congress, making significant contributions to China's economic development and industrial progress. In 1978, he passed away, and his family donated all his public debts and savings to the state, supporting education. His life was a model of industrial enterprise for national salvation and selfless dedication.