How did this cultural revolution result in massive civil unrest?

The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution was a mass movement launched in 1966, to remould society and reactivate Communist ideals. Ultimately ... it was little more than a power struggle between Mao Zedong, Chairman of the Communist Party and his political rivals. For many it signified a loss of tradition, and a loss of their career, hope and trust. Many people lost their lives.