1.3

• Who was the Emperor of China as a child in February 1910?

  Puyi
• What is nationalism?

  • Pride in one's country
  • Belief in the superiority of one's country over others
• What is republicanism?

  • A system of government with an elected head of state
• What does nationalisation refer to?

  • The takeover by the state of private companies and businesses
• How was the power of the Qing dynasty affected after the Boxer Uprising?

  The power of the Qing dynasty was significantly reduced.
• What major event led to the revolution in 1911 that overthrew the Qing dynasty?

  A series of problems, including a weak government and failed reforms.
• What happened in November 1908 that affected the Qing dynasty?

  Both Emperor Guangxu and the Empress Cixi died.
• Who ruled as regent after the death of Emperor Guangxu and Empress Cixi?

  Prince Chun, Guangxu's brother.
• Why was Prince Chun unable to provide strong government?

  He was inexperienced in ruling.
• What was the outcome of the political reforms introduced between 1909-11?

  The reforms were too little and too late, leading to increased resentment.
• What percentage of the population had the right to vote in the provincial assemblies?

  0.4 percent
• What was the consequence of the limits placed on the provincial assemblies?

  It led to calls for faster reform and increased support for revolution.
• How did the army reform impact the Qing dynasty financially?

  It led to increased taxes on tea, wine, salt, and land.
• What was the public reaction to the heavy taxes imposed by Prince Chun?

  The heavy taxes were unpopular with ordinary people.
• What action did Prince Chun take against General Yuan Shikai?

  He dismissed General Yuan Shikai.
• What was General Yuan Shikai's response to his dismissal?

  He declared he would get his revenge.
• Who was Sun Yat-sen and what did he advocate for?

  He was an educated opponent of the imperial government who advocated for nationalism and republicanism.
• Why was Sun Yat-sen forced into exile between 1895-1911?

  Because of his anti-government views.
• How did Sun Yat-sen's ideas spread despite his exile?

  His ideas were popular among young Chinese men studying in Japan.
• What was the impact of nationalisation on the control of China's railways?

  It increased Manchu control in the provinces and angered railway owners.
• How did the Qing government finance the expansion of railways?

  By borrowing money from Western powers and granting concessions to foreign companies.
• What perception did the actions of the Qing government create among the population?

  It appeared as if the Qing were partners with the 'foreign devils'.
• What was the overall effect of growing anger among the population regarding the Qing dynasty?

  It increased the possibility of revolution.
• When did Emperor Guangxu die?


  14 November 1908
• What was suggested about Empress Cixi's involvement in Emperor Guangxu's death?

  It was suggested that she had him poisoned by her favourite servant.
• What substance was found in high levels in Emperor Guangxu's remains?

  Arsenic
• What did forensic experts confirm in 2008 regarding Emperor Guangxu's death?

  They confirmed that he was poisoned.
• What happened to Empress Cixi after Emperor Guangxu's death?

  She ate too many pears, fainted, and shortly afterwards died.
• When did the revolution that overthrew the Qing begin?

  On 9 October 1911
• What event triggered the wider revolt against the Qing government?

  A bomb exploded accidentally by a group of young revolutionaries in Hankou.
• What is the significance of 10 October in China?

  It is known as the 'Double Tenth'.
• What did the soldiers in Wuhan do on the 'Double Tenth'?

  They began a mutiny that spread to other provinces.
• What was the reaction of Han soldiers towards Manchu control during the revolt?

  They revolted and massacred Manchu troops.
• Who became the leader of the rebels after they lacked a leader?

  Yuan Shikai
• What was Yuan Shikai's position before he switched sides to support the rebels?

  He was a former general.
• What did Yuan Shikai promise in return for becoming president?

  He promised to persuade the Manchus to abdicate and to replace the imperial system with a republic.
• Why was Yuan Shikai's concession significant?

  Because he himself was not a republican and wanted to be the emperor.
• When did Sun Yat-sen take office as president?

  On 1 January 1912
• What did General Yuan persuade Sun Yat-sen to do?

  To step down and allow him to be president.
• Why did Sun step down from power?

  He did not have the military support to resist Yuan.