Hundred Days' Reform

The Hundred Days' Reform was a series of modernization efforts in China during 1898, aimed at transforming its political, educational, military, and economic systems to strengthen the empire. Initiated by Emperor Guangxu and reform-minded officials, it sought to adopt new technologies, improve governance, and modernize the civil service. However, conservative factions opposed these rapid changes, fearing loss of traditional power. The reform was abruptly halted when conservative forces, led by Empress Dowager Cixi, took control, arresting reformers and reinstating old policies. The movement highlighted China's struggle between tradition and modernity during a period of political turbulence.