The Taiping Rebellion

The Taiping Rebellion (1850–1864) was a massive civil war in China caused by widespread dissatisfaction with the Qing Dynasty’s corruption, economic struggles, and social inequality. Led by Hong Xiuquan, who claimed to be the younger brother of Jesus, the movement aimed to establish a new, egalitarian society based on Christian principles. It gained millions of followers and controlled large parts of southern China. Despite initial victories, the Qing government, with help from Western allies, eventually suppressed the uprising, which resulted in millions of deaths and significant upheaval, shaping China's modernization and modernization efforts in the late 19th century.