Qing Dynasty

[YingZheng]

Exactly speaking, the Qing Dynasty lasted from 1644 until the founding
of the Republic of China in 1911. After the Opium War of 1840, the Qing
entered a semi-colonial and semi-feudal society, which can be divided
into two periods.
Throughout the reigns of Emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong, the
Qing reached its peak. This was known as the Kang Qian Sheng Shi
(flourishing age from Kang to Qian, 1662-1759). During this period,
Emperor Kangxi recaptured Taiwan and put down the rebellion of the Zhun
Ga'er tribe. With a vast territory, the Qing gradually gained
stability, which enabled a steady development of economy, culture,
industry and commerce.
In the late years of Emperor Qianlong's reign (circa 1792), the Qing
Dynasty began its decline, with intensified social conflicts and
continuous uprisings. The corrupt regime was best illustrated by the
deeds of He Shen, who amassed a huge fortune by taking bribes and
exploiting people. This led to the defeat of the Qing during the Opium
War. With the opening of more and more coastal trade ports after the
war, China's sovereignty became encroached by foreign powers. Under
such humiliating circumstances, patriots never ceased to pursue
independence. Uprisings led by Sun Yat-sen overthrew the Qing Dynasty
and set up the Republic of China.