The Washington Post looks at how the Olympics are generating excitement about more than sports for many in China, and the ways in which the government is making that happen:
Up and down China’s political, social and economic hierarchy, from new millionaires to dirt farmers, party cadres to protesters, the country has embraced its role as Olympics host with an ardor and unanimity rarely matched in previous Games.
…Beijing’s selection as the 2008 Olympic venue is widely seen here as a blessing by other countries of the Communist Party’s achievements during that time and a show of faith in its promises to push forward with more changes, including political liberalization. Perhaps most of all, the Beijing Games provide Chinese with validation of the national pride that is swelling here after a long stretch during which most Chinese felt left behind and cut off from their rightful place in the world.
…To make sure the two-week Olympic festival makes China shine — and its government look good — the party recently called on a powerful Politburo Standing Committee member, Xi Jinping, to manage the preparations. Naming such a senior figure as Xi, who is considered the most likely successor to Hu, was seen as a demonstration of resolve to make sure nothing goes wrong during China’s moment in the sun, which is expected to attract an estimated 500,000 tourists and 4 billion television viewers around the world.
