Core Points - The article commemorates the life and contributions of renowned physicist and Nobel laureate Yang Chen-Ning, who passed away at the age of 103, highlighting his influence beyond the realm of science into cultural and academic exchanges between China and the West [2][3][5] - Yang's most significant contributions include the development of the non-Abelian gauge theory, which laid the groundwork for the Standard Model of particle physics, and his role in boosting the confidence of Chinese scientists and the Chinese populace [3][4][5] Contributions to Science - Yang's non-Abelian gauge theory, proposed in 1954, was initially complex and abstract but later became crucial in the development of the Standard Model, which was fully validated by 2012 [3][4] - His work is compared to that of other foundational scientists like Newton, Maxwell, and Einstein, establishing him as a key figure in the advancement of fundamental theories in physics [4] Cultural and Academic Impact - Yang's contributions extended to fostering academic exchanges and cultural identity between China and the West, particularly after his return to China in 1999, which marked a significant personal and professional journey [5] - He played a pivotal role in enhancing the self-esteem of Chinese scientists and the broader Chinese community, asserting that his most important contribution was helping to change the perception of inferiority among Chinese people [3][5]