Chinese Textbooks Revised After 'Ugly' Illustration Controversy

By Team CG
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August 26, 2022
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Various cartoons printed in several primary school textbooks in China have been replaced because the existing content was allegedly deemed as “offensive” by the public.

Although the original cartoon had been used in books for several years, it suddenly caused an uproar a few days ago when the Global Times described it as 'ugly, racist and horrifying'.

The publisher apologized and promised to remake the cartoon.

Thousands of books have now been reviewed and many illustrators and publishers have been reprimanded or fired.

Chinese newspaper Global Times reported that many critics of the cartoons accused the cartoonists of 'deliberately spoiling the aesthetics of the Chinese people' and called the publishers 'irresponsible'.

A team of experts had to examine nearly 2,000 books to make sure the new content was appropriate. After which the National Textbook Committee of China approved the new images.

At least three illustrators have been fired over the scandal and some will be held responsible for the 'dereliction of duty'.

The transformation of textbooks on social media is being widely praised due to past mistakes being corrected.