Chu Songqiu was born on August 11, 1920 in Baiyun Township, Xiangtan, Hunan. His father, Chu Lianshan, had high attainments in ancient Chinese literature, especially calligraphy and poetry, and was known as the "Eight Wise and Four Kings" in Hedong. His mother, Ms. Wei Wenfang, came from a well-known family and was particularly talented in her courage and analysis.