The Qing Dynasty

The Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), China’s last imperial dynasty, oversaw massive territorial expansion, booming population growth, and a flourishing of arts and scholarship under rulers like Kangxi and Qianlong. While early Qing emperors maintained stability through a balance of Manchu and Han traditions, the empire eventually faced internal unrest and growing pressure from Western powers. From the Opium Wars to the Boxer Rebellion, the dynasty’s final century was marked by reform attempts, resistance, and decline. This post examines how the Qing shaped modern China’s borders, identity, and path to revolution.