After arriving in Germany, Zhang joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) after becoming friends with Zhu De (Field Marshal and Supreme Military Commander of the New China), his roommate at the time.

[citation needed] He was appointed Vice-Chairman of the 2nd CPPCC, National Committee of the People’s Republic of China (1954–1959),[1] and minister in charge of transportation.

[5] With his political ambitions unfulfilled and reform goals unaccomplished, Zhang lived a Renaissance man’s life in his private library of ancient books and art relics after his removal from the many positions he once held.

Also quoted in his daughter’s best seller was Zhang’s own personal motto: “I do not judge myself by the honors I hold or by the indignities forced upon me, nor do I judge others by their successes and failures in life.” Taking great personal pride in his contributions to the founding of the People's Republic, Zhang rose early on October 1 of every year to prepare for the celebration of the new republic's birthday, dressing up very meticulously for the occasion.

[citation needed] Zhang died of stomach cancer and the family believed that depression as a result of his political downfall may have contributed to the deterioration of his health.