Xianfeng
Emperor of China during Qing Dynasty

Born
1831
194 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1861
163 years ago — 30 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
China
Links & References
Ascended the throne in 1850 at the young age of 19 during a tumultuous period marked by social unrest and foreign invasions. His reign was characterized by internal strife, notably the Taiping Rebellion, which lasted from 1850 to 1864. This conflict severely weakened the Qing Dynasty and led to significant loss of life and economic instability. The Opium Wars also unfolded during this time, initiating foreign interventions that challenged China's sovereignty. The emperor struggled to modernize the military and administrative systems to counter these pressures. His efforts, however, were limited in scope and effectiveness. Xianfeng passed away in 1861, leaving a kingdom in crisis and paving the way for the eventual fall of the Qing dynasty.
Reign during the Taiping Rebellion
Oversaw the Second Opium War
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