The three-day national mourning is the first of its kind held for victims of natural disasters since the People's Republic of China was founded in 1949.

Throughout China's history, the practice has been reserved for emperors and top state leaders. The national mourning period is more than an adoption of international practice, but also a display of humanity and respect for life in a more open civil society. These traits were also shown during the country's all-out efforts to save lives this past week.

(CCTV May 20, 2008)