Yang Zhiyun

Yang Zhiyun (also known as Yang Xiu’an), born in 1921 in Yixingbu, a northern suburb of Tianjin, was the mother of former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. She grew up in an era of war and hardship, in a poor family background, yet she remained strong, independent, and diligent. In her youth, she worked as a primary school teacher to support the family and also attended training programs at a normal school and bookkeeping night classes. In 1954, she responded to the call to teach in Gansu and later served for many years as a Chinese language teacher and homeroom teacher. Known for her rigorous teaching style and vivid lessons, she was deeply respected and loved by her students.

In family life, Yang Zhiyun lived a life of simplicity and frugality. She managed household chores and raised her children, often mending their clothes repeatedly. Despite hardships, she always upheld integrity and modest living. She emphasized not only her children’s studies but also their moral character, instilling in them principles of conduct through her own example. Even when her students grew old, they continued to recall “Teacher Yang” with affection, saying she taught them not just knowledge, but also values and conviction.

As a mother, she cared deeply about Wen Jiabao’s career and personal conduct. Around the time he served as Premier, she wrote letters reminding him to remain humble, tolerant, and harmonious with others. Her teachings profoundly influenced Wen, shaping his lifelong simplicity and pursuit of “fairness and justice.” Yang Zhiyun’s life stands as a true reflection of the resilience, diligence, and devotion of ordinary Chinese women.