Chinese virtues and "the Mao Dynasty"

The shot is poor as I took the picture through the window of a moving bus. The virtues and ideals are Prosperity, Democracy, Civility, Rule of Law, Harmony, Freedom, Equality, Justice, Patriotism, Dedication, Integrity, Friendship.

Modern China, like any other society, is founded on its past. Yet I was surprised to hear Chinese use the phrase "The Mao Dynasty." Below, the palaces of the Forbidden City and the remaining portion of moat that runs behind it stand as reminders of earlier times. 

Today Mao's picture is prominent, above the Imperial Gate that was once reserved for the most august emperor.