Tongzhi Emperor

The Tongzhi Emperor was a Chinese emperor who reigned from 1861 to 1875 during the Qing Dynasty. As a child, he ascended to the throne after his father's death, but real power was held by regents, especially Empress Dowager Cixi. His reign marked attempts at modernization, known as the Tongzhi Restoration, aiming to strengthen China amid internal rebellions and external pressures. However, his health issues limited his direct influence, and after his death, succession challenges intensified. The Tongzhi Emperor's brief reign is significant for its efforts to restore stability and reforms within a period of upheaval.