Boxer Rebellion Overview

Study Notes

Overview of the Boxer Rebellion

Uprising against foreigners in China around 1900, initiated by peasants and later supported by the Chinese government.
The Boxers aimed to expel all foreign influence and presence from China through violent means.
A response from multiple countries was prompted, resulting in the deployment of foreign troops to quell the uprising.

Involved Parties

Key participants included China and an alliance of eight states: Austria-Hungary, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the UK, and the US.
Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain were also involved in the negotiations and signed related protocols.

Causes of the Boxer Rebellion

The rebellion aimed to dismantle the Qing dynasty and eliminate foreign privileges in China.
Root causes included the presence of Western powers, gunboat diplomacy, a weak Chinese government, rising anti-Christian sentiments, natural disasters, and widespread economic distress.

Identity of the Boxers

The term "Boxers" was coined by foreigners for the "Yihequan" or "Righteous and Harmonious Fists," a Chinese secret society behind the rebellion.

Duration of the Rebellion

The Boxer Rebellion lasted from November 2, 1899, to September 7, 1901, totaling nearly two years.

Significance of the Boxer Rebellion

The uprising represented a strong anti-imperialist sentiment among Chinese society aiming to destroy both the Qing dynasty and foreign influence.
After gaining support and control, anti-foreign forces managed to persuade the Boxers to redirect their struggle towards foreign entities rather than the dynasty itself.

Aftermath of the Boxer Rebellion

The aftermath included punitive measures against Boxer participants and Chinese officials, destruction of fortifications near Beijing, and the stationing of foreign troops in the city for protection.
China was barred from importing arms for two years and was obligated to pay reparations exceeding $330 million to the involved foreign nations.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Boxer Rebellion, a significant uprising in China around 1900 aimed at expelling foreign influence. This quiz includes key figures, events, and the implications of this historic revolt. Challenge yourself to see how much you know about this crucial period in Chinese history.