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Boxer Rebellion in China

Definition

The Boxer Rebellion was an anti-imperialist uprising which took place in China towards the end of the Qing dynasty between 1899 and 1901. It was initiated by the Militia United in Righteousness (Yihetuan), known as "Boxers", against foreign influence in areas such as trade, politics, religion and technology that occurred during Opium Wars.

Analogy

Imagine if your neighborhood started getting crowded with outsiders who began changing things around without asking you or respecting your traditions. You'd probably get frustrated too - just like how Chinese felt during Boxer Rebellion when they stood up against foreign influence.

Historical Context

The Boxer Rebellion, which occurred in China from 1899 to 1901, was a violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising. It emerged in response to imperialist encroachments, economic manipulation by Western powers, and internal unrest within the Qing Dynasty. The rebellion was led by the "Boxers," a secret society known as the "Righteous and Harmonious Fists," who sought to expel foreign influence from China.

Historical Significance

The Boxer Rebellion had significant repercussions for China, leading to increased foreign intervention and the imposition of punitive measures under the Boxer Protocol of 1901. The substantial indemnities demanded by Western powers further weakened the Qing Dynasty, hastening its decline and contributing to the growth of Chinese nationalism. This event also underscored the fragility of China's sovereignty during an era of intense colonial competition.

Related terms

Opium Wars: Two wars waged between Western powers and Qing dynasty China during mid-19th century over trade imbalances related to opium.

Imperialism: Policy or ideology by which a nation extends its power by acquiring territories or gaining control over other nations economically or politically.

Qing Dynasty: Last imperial dynasty of China ruling from 1644 to 1912.