Qing Dynasty
Modernization 1860-1895 Compare and contrast China with Japan
During the period of 1860-1895, Japan and China embarked on modernization paths in response to the rise of Western powers, but their approaches and outcomes differed significantly. Japan, through the Meiji Restoration, adopted a wholesale approach to Westernization, including political, economic, and military reforms, ultimately achieving success. China, on the other hand, adopted a more selective and gradual approach, primarily term focused on military modernization through the Self-Strengthening Movement, which ultimately proved insufficient to address the broader challenges facing the Qing dynasty.
Sun Yixian
Nationalist leader of China, late 19th century through early 20th century. Was involved in the Revolution of 1911 as the leader of the revolutionary side. Born in a peasantry family, he had numerous opportunities to make contact with Western culture in his youth which formulated his later ideologies and beliefs.
Society for the Revival of China
Xinzhonghui. Initial anti-Manchu association created by Sun Yixian. Carries out, and ultimately fails the First revolution in 1895.
Revolution of 1911
Marked by the seizure of the arsenal, and taking over of the Wuchang province, October 10 ("Double-Ten" Revolution). By this time, most of China (Qing) was supportive of the nationalist revolution and was declaring independence from the Qing dynasty.
Modernization 1860-1895 Compare and contrast China with Japan
During the period of 1860-1895, Japan and China embarked on modernization paths in response to the rise of Western powers, but their approaches and outcomes differed significantly. Japan, through the Meiji Restoration, adopted a wholesale approach to Westernization, including political, economic, and military reforms, ultimately achieving success. China, on the other hand, adopted a more selective and gradual approach, primarily term focused on military modernization through the Self-Strengthening Movement, which ultimately proved insufficient to address the broader challenges facing the Qing dynasty.
Opening of Korea in 1876
Causes and effects from 1860-1894
The opening of Korea in 1876, primarily driven by the Japan-Korea Treaty of Amity, was a major turning point, marking Korea's shift from isolation to engagement with the global stage. This period, from 1860 to 1894, saw Korea's forced engagement with Western powers, particularly Japan, leading to significant political and social changes, including the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895 and the Kabo Reforms.
Chinese United League
Established by Sun Yixian, August 20, 1905. Sun labeled himself as "president". Carried radically anti-Manchu ideologies. Other leading figures include: Huang Xing, Song Jiaoren. Conducts 9 more failed attempts of revolutionary activities between 1900-1911.
Yuan Shikai
Former supporter of the Qing who turned to the revolutionary side. Hoped to replace Sun Yixian's leadership position and place himself as the "Emperor" of the nation after establishing a new government. Succeeds in driving Sun out, however is confronted by fierce protests from the entire nation when declaring his intention of becoming the Emperor, hence forced to give up.
The opium wars
Two wars in the mid-19th century involving the British and China over opium trade. China wanted to stop but Britain needed to continue trade to have sovereignty over China. China was defeated.
Russo-Japanese War 1904
Role of Japan's military in success
Impact of Japan's victory on region
In the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), Japan's military played a crucial role in achieving victory, largely due to its modernized army and navy, superior naval tactics, and a well-organized logistics system. This success led to Japan's rise as a major power in East Asia, shifting the regional balance of power and impacting U.S. interests and foreign policy.
Self-Strengthening Movement 1861-1894 Achievements
The Self-Strengthening Movement (1861-1894) in China aimed to modernize the military, economy, and education by adopting Western technologies and institutions while preserving traditional Chinese culture and government. While it led to significant advancements in industry and infrastructure, its efforts ultimately proved insufficient to prevent China's defeat in the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95.
"Second Revolution" (1913)
Attempt by Nationalist revolutionaries to regain power from Yuan Shikai, however was easily defeated by Yuan's troops. Yuan declared Nationalists as rebellious, Sun was driven out into exile in Japan, Nationalist Party dismantled.
Sino-Japanese War 1894-95
Impact of defeat on China
China's defeat in the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895 had profound consequences, including the loss of its most effective naval force and the weakening of its position in East Asia, leading to increased Western demands and internal reform movements. The defeat also spurred the rise of Japanese dominance in the region and the beginning of revolutionary activities against the Qing dynasty.
1889 Constitution of Japan
Impact
The 1889 Meiji Constitution, established after the Meiji Restoration, was a landmark event in Japan's modernization and transformation. It established a constitutional monarchy, created a bicameral Diet (parliament), and granted certain fundamental rights to citizens, while also maintaining strong imperial power. While it led to some initial democratic progress, the constitution's inherent limitations and the growing influence of the military ultimately paved the way for its replacement after World War II.
Manifesto of the Chinese United League
Created based on Sun Yixian's Three Principles of the People. Include the following items: 1. Expulsion of Manchus, 2. Restoration of Chinese rule, 3. Establishment of a republic, 4. Equalization of land rights.
Three Principles of the People
Proposed by Sun Yixian, demonstrating his nationalist beliefs and ideologies. Contains the following items: 1. Nationalism, 2. Democracy, 3. People's livelihood.
Prince Gong 1861-1865
Success in reform and modernization
During the Tongzhi Restoration (1861-1865), Prince Gong led reforms and modernization efforts, including suppressing the Taiping Rebellion and establishing the Tsungli Yamen for foreign affairs. These initiatives aimed to strengthen the Qing government and modernize China, though the reforms faced challenges and ultimately fell short of their goals.
Xinhai Revolution 1911
Role of Sun Yixian
Reasons for failure
The 1911 Xinhai Revolution, which ended the Qing Dynasty and led to the establishment of the Republic of China, saw Sun Yixian (Sun Yat-sen) as a key figure, although he was not directly involved in the initial Wuchang Uprising. While Sun's role was significant in establishing the revolutionary movement and advocating for a republican government, the revolution ultimately failed to achieve lasting unity and democracy.
Wuchang Uprising
Ultimate spark that lead to the final 1911 Revolution. October 9, 1911, revolutionaries in Hankou accidentally sets off bomb that they had planned to use against the Qing government. The military vacuum created by the government's attempt to capture revolutionaries around China allowed the seizure of the arsenal in the province, October 10.
Li Hongzhang (1823-1901): (1870s)
After Zeng Guofan's death, he approved of Yung Wing's educational mission to the U.S. in 1872 and then brought them back in 1881; arms manufacturing, part of the self-strengthening movement.