Qing+China

Qing China The Qing Dynasty in China followed the Ming Dynasty and lasted from 1644 to 1912. Nurhaci, a local Manchu leader, organized banner armies that defeated the weak and declining Ming Dynasty in 1644. The Manchu rulers led the Qing dynasty, restoring the Exam System and resisting other reforms. Male control continued as women's role in society remained inside the household. By the late 18th cnetury, the dynasty had already hit the beginning of a long declining period. People commonly cheated on the Civil Service exams, corrupting the system. There was a reduction in spending on public works projects along with a food shortage. The Europeans that entered China continued to be seen as barbarians even though they were equal to China's sophistication and intelligence. British merchants that attempted trade with China found that the Chinese did not want or need their porcelains, teas, or other products, so the British gave the Chinese opium. Soon, China realized that the opium trade was a threat to their economy and social balance. Soon enough the opium war broke out in 1839 after Lin Zexu ordered the European trading areas in Canton blockaded and destoyed the opium in the warehouses. The Europeans defeated the Chinese and forced trade centers to open in China. Rebellions and reforms also contributed to the decline of dynastic rule in China. For example, the Taiping Rebellion in the 1850's offered social reforms, land redistribution, and the liberation of women. It also attacked traditional Confucian ideas. Although the Taiping were eventually defeated, they still caused damage in the Qing Dynasty. The revolution of 1912 finally overthrew the Qing Dynasty, not only ending Manchu rule but also ending a dynastic civilization.

Created By: Alexa DeAntonio 2-12-2009