Download How far did the Manzhu Dynasty solve her problems successfully

How far did the Manzhu Dynasty solve her problems successfully
during the period 1860s-1910? Explain your answer.
This question requires you:
1. explain the problems of the Manzhu Dynasty during the period.
2. explain the solution that the Manzhu Dynasty adopted and their result: solve or not?
*** beware of the time period which covers 1860s-1910 only. In other words, this question
does not require you to explain the 1911 Revolution and fall of the Manzhu Dynasty.
Suggested framework:
1. Discuss the problems
a.
2.
Internal problems:
i.
internal uprisings: Taipings and the Boxers
ii.
dominance of Cixi and the power struggle in the Manzhu Court
iii.
centrifugal force in province, especially the southern area during the Boxers
b. External problems:
i.
defeat in wars: Second Anglo-Chinese War, Sino-Japanese War and the
Eight powers’ expedition
ii.
Scramble for Concession
Discuss the solutions and their effectiveness
a.
SSM failed to strengthened China against powers. Proof: defeat in the
Sino-Japanese War which led to the Scramble for Concession
However, it did improve the Sino-Western relations by setting up the Zongli Yamen
and sending the Burlingame Mission, through which several agreements were
signed between China and powers. Moreover, the SSM also laid a good foundation
in industrial and education reforms. Besides, it also helped the Manzhu Dynasty to
suppress the Taipings.
b.
The Hundred Days’ Reform failed to strengthened China. On one hand, it
could not minimize the influence of Cixi and the negative role of conservative
officials. The reform was basically failed because Cixi still controlled most of
power and hence the coup detat was failed. Since the reform was short-lived, it did
not and could not strengthen China against the powers.
c.
The Late Qing reform also failed to strengthen the Manzhu Dynasty. It even
speeded up the decline of the dynasty. The reform aimed at centralization which led
to serious opposition. It led to the problem on education, new army, political
structure. Therefore, the reform created more problems.
*** you can also write the Boxer which Cixi regarded it as a solution against the powers.