Leaders of 20 Richest Countries: 2002
Heads of state and government controlling the world's major economies during this period.
Leadership Timeline: China
| Period | Leader | Political Party | Selection Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1949 — 1976 | Mao Zedong Chairman | CCP | Party Appointment |
| 1976 — 1978 | Hua Guofeng Chairman | CCP | Party Appointment |
| 1978 — 1989 | Deng Xiaoping Paramount Leader | CCP | Party Appointment |
| 1989 — 2002 | Jiang Zemin General Secretary | CCP | Party Appointment |
| 2002 — 2012 | Hu Jintao General Secretary | CCP | Party Appointment |
| 2012 — Present | Xi Jinping General Secretary | CCP | Party Appointment |