Between 1959 and 1962, China experienced a severe famine known as the Great Chinese Famine. It's estimated that millions of people died as a result of food scarcity and related factors during this period. The exact number of deaths remains a subject of debate, but estimates often range from 15 to 45 million people. It's important to note that this was a complex and tragic event with various causes, including natural disasters, economic policies, and political factors. The Chinese government's policies, such as the Great Leap Forward, played a significant role in exacerbating the famine's impact.