Historical Events tagged with "qing"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Establishment of the Republic of China

January 1st, 1912 113 years ago

The Republic of China was established after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, marking a significant shift from imperial rule to a republican form of governance. Sun Yat-sen was a key figure in this transition, becoming the provisional president. The establishment was declared in Nanjing, signaling the end of over two thousand years of imperial rule in China. Factors such as widespread discontent with the Qing government and the influence of revolutionary ideas played a crucial role in this monumental event that reshaped China's political landscape.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

The Second Canton Uprising in Guangzhou

April 27th, 1911 113 years ago

A revolutionary uprising occurred in Guangzhou, targeting Qing rule. It was led by members of the Tongmenghui, a secret society aiming to overthrow the Qing dynasty and establish a republic. The uprising aimed to inspire further revolts in other provinces. However, it was swiftly suppressed by Qing authorities, resulting in arrests and casualties.

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Military & Warfare

Sino-Japanese War Begins with Declaration of War

August 1st, 1894 130 years ago

The Empire of Japan and Qing China officially declared war on each other after a week of escalating tensions over Korea. The conflict emerged from Japan's ambitions to expand its influence in Korea, which China also sought to dominate. This declaration followed various skirmishes along the Korean peninsula, which had been the focal point of tensions between the two nations. The war marked a significant shift in power dynamics in East Asia, signaling Japan's emergence as a formidable military force.

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Politics & Government

Guangxu Emperor's Reign Begins Under Cixi

February 25th, 1875 150 years ago

Guangxu Emperor ascended to the throne of China amid the powerful influence of Empress Dowager Cixi, who acted as regent. Born Zaitian, Guangxu was only four years old when he became emperor after the death of his adopted predecessor, Tongzhi Emperor. Under Cixi's guidance, he was groomed for leadership, but was often overshadowed by her authority. His reign would be marked by attempts at reform and modernization in Qing China, amidst significant internal and external pressures.

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Military & Warfare

End of the Second Opium War at Peking

October 18th, 1860 164 years ago

The Second Opium War culminated with the Convention of Peking, resulting in the ratification of the Treaty of Tientsin. This unequal treaty, imposed on China by Britain and France, marked the conclusion of a conflict exacerbated by opium trade disputes. The treaty extended foreign privileges in China and allowed for additional ports to be opened for trade, along with increased diplomatic representation for foreign powers.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Hong Xiuquan Establishes Taiping Heavenly Kingdom

January 11th, 1851 174 years ago

Hong Xiuquan, a former civil servant, proclaimed the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom in Jintian, Guangxi, leading a significant uprising against the Qing Dynasty. Motivated by his visions and beliefs, he asserted divine mandate to establish a new Christian kingdom, fundamentally challenging the traditional Chinese social order and authority. The Jintian Uprising marked the beginning of one of the deadliest conflicts within China, as it mobilized thousands to support its cause against the Qing government, ultimately resulting in widespread rebellion and massive social upheaval.

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Military & Warfare

Qing Victory over Tungning at Penghu

July 16th, 1683 341 years ago

In a decisive naval confrontation, the Manchu Qing dynasty, commanded by Shi Lang, successfully defeated the Kingdom of Tungning at the Battle of Penghu. This battle occurred near the Pescadores Islands, where Shi Lang's well-coordinated naval forces executed tactical maneuvers that overwhelmed the Tungning fleet. The Qing forces aimed to consolidate control over Taiwan and eliminate rival powers in the region, marking a significant moment in Chinese maritime history.

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Military & Warfare

Qing Forces Capture Zhoushan Island

October 15th, 1651 373 years ago

Zhu Yihai, the Prince of Lu and regent of the Southern Ming, was forced to flee when Qing forces successfully captured Zhoushan Island. The capture marked a significant military gain for the Qing Dynasty as they consolidated control over coastal regions. Zhu Yihai sought refuge in Kinmen, a strategy indicative of the ongoing struggle between the Qing and the remaining Ming loyalists amid the broader context of the dynastic transition. The loss of Zhoushan represented both a tactical and symbolic blow to the Southern Ming authority.

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Military & Warfare

Yangzhou Massacre of 800,000 Residents

May 20th, 1645 379 years ago

The Yangzhou massacre was a brutal event during the transition from the Ming to Qing dynasties, where an estimated 800,000 residents of Yangzhou were killed. This horrific episode began when Qing forces, led by Chen Gongbo, captured the city, leading to widespread slaughter. The crackdown was partly a response to Ming loyalist resistance, and the violence lasted for ten days, decimating the civilian population. Many residents were executed, while others faced death through arson and pillaging. The massacre stands as one of the most striking atrocities of this historical upheaval.

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