The Great Chinese Famine occurred between 1959 and 1961, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 15 to 45 million people. It was primarily caused by a combination of poor agricultural policies, including the Great Leap Forward, and natural disasters such as droughts and floods. The government's focus on rapid industrialization led to the neglect of farming practices, exacerbating food shortages. During this period, many rural communities faced severe food scarcity, leading to widespread malnutrition and starvation. The famine highlighted the consequences of political decisions on agriculture and the importance of sustainable farming practices. It remains one of the most tragic events in China's history.