Xi Qiuying

Xi Qiuying was the elder sister of Xi Zhongxun, a senior leader of the Chinese Communist Party. She was the daughter of Xi Zongde and Chai Caihua, and the eldest daughter in the family, ranking just after her elder brother Xi Zhongxun among seven siblings. The Xi family traced its roots to Fuping, Shaanxi, while her mother’s family came from Xichuan, Henan, two neighboring regions with close ties.

Xi Qiuying grew up in a large farming household, where her father emphasized traditional values. Although Xi Zongde never received formal schooling, he was known to be kind yet strict, experienced, and respectful of culture. He taught his children to honor their elders, care for the young, remain diligent and honest, and avoid quarrels. Her brothers were sent to the fields at an early age to do simple farm work, while she and her sisters learned spinning and weaving from their mother, carrying on the family tradition of 'farming and weaving as the foundation.'

As the eldest daughter, Xi Qiuying likely bore responsibilities in helping her parents and caring for her younger siblings, becoming both a helper and a source of support within the household. These experiences shaped her character with resilience, frugality, and a strong sense of duty.

Although little detailed public record remains about Xi Qiuying’s later life, family recollections suggest that she, together with her siblings, embodied the perseverance and traditional values that defined the Xi family during challenging times.