Following the fall of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty, the city of Yangzhou emerged as a significant site of conflict. In May 1645, Qing forces, aiming to consolidate their power, began their assault on Yangzhou, which had become a stronghold for Ming loyalists. As the Qing troops, commanded by Chen Gongbo, breached the city's defenses, they faced fierce resistance from the local populace and defenders. In retaliation, the Qing soldiers initiated a comprehensive campaign of violence against Yangzhou's residents, which led to an appalling loss of life over the next ten days. Estimates suggest that upwards of 800,000 people were killed during the massacre, making it one of the deadliest civilian deaths in peacetime conflict.The nature of the violence was extreme, with civilians subjected not only to direct killings but also to destruction of property, arson, and other forms of brutalization. The systematic targeting of anyone associated with the Ming regime or suspected of loyalty to it compounded the tragedy. The clearing of Yangzhou was seen by Qing officials as necessary for their rule and as a demonstration of their might against any remaining Ming loyalties. Despite the immediate military goals achieved, the massacre instilled fear and resentment among the populace and solidified narratives of resistance that would shape anti-Qing sentiments in later years.