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Peter K. Bol
and
William C. Kirby
In the 18th century, the Qing Dynasty is at its height; it is the wealthiest, most powerful,most civilized state on earth. And yet the 19th century brought enormous challenges for the Qing and for the place we call China. By the 20th century, a 2,000-year imperial tradition is gone. What happened?
Read more
In the 18th century, the Qing Dynasty is at its height; it is the wealthiest, most powerful,most civilized state on earth. And yet the 19th century brought enormous challenges for the Qing and for the place we call China. By the 20th century, a 2,000-year imperial tradition is gone. What happened?
Read more
In the 18th century, the Qing Dynasty is at its height; it is the wealthiest, most powerful,most civilized state on earth. And yet the 19th century brought enormous challenges for the Qing and for the place we call China. By the 20th century, a 2,000-year imperial tradition is gone. What happened?
In this overview of modern Chinese history, you’ll learn about the Qing was forced to engage with the West, the impact of imperialism and dynastic decline, and, ultimately, the causes of the Qing dynasty’s fall. This course will cover the effects of opium, how the Qing responded to that epidemic, and how the opium war brought fundamental changes to the country. You’ll also learn about the introduction of Christianity in this period, and about the ideology of Chinese salvation.
This is a time when intellectuals were wrestling with new western ideas and new western technologies. This course will help you to understand how China engaged with the West, and how this confrontation still resonates today.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/15rsbr/invasions
What's inside
Learning objectives
- An overview of modern chinese history.
- About the qing’s forced re-encounter and engagement with the west.
- The impact of imperialism and dynastic decline.
- What ultimately caused the fall of the qing dynasty.
- How intellectuals wrestled with the confrontation of western ideas and technology.
- The historiography of periodization and how one can define the modern period.
- An overview of modern chinese history.
- About the qing’s forced re-encounter and engagement with the west.
- The impact of imperialism and dynastic decline.
- What ultimately caused the fall of the qing dynasty.
- How intellectuals wrestled with the confrontation of western ideas and technology.
- The historiography of periodization and how one can define the modern period.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches an overview of the modern history of China, which is standard in many disciplines
Taught by Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, who are recognized for their work in modern Chinese history
Explores how China engaged with the West and how this confrontation still resonates today, which is highly relevant to understanding contemporary international relations
Develops an understanding of the Qing dynasty and its impact on the history of China
Examines the impact of imperialism and dynastic decline on the Qing dynasty, which is foundational for understanding the history of China
Does not require learners to be familiar with China's history or modern history in order to take this course, making it accessible to a broad range of learners
Save this course
Save Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Well-structured history course
Learners say that Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China is a well-structured course with engaging content that covers various topics related to Chinese history, including the interplay between Christianity and Chinese Salvation, the merits of the Qing dynasty, and the epic stories of Qing's attempts to modernize. Many learners found the content to be digestible while still providing new insights and perspectives on the subject matter.
Covers various topics related to Chinese history.
Content is engaging and digestible.
Provides new insights and perspectives on Chinese history.
"I did learn a few new things... Qing did have some merits..."
"The epic stories of how Qing tried three strategies to catch up..."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China with these
activities:
Seek out a mentor who specializes in Chinese history
Show steps
Connecting with an experienced historian will provide you with guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
Browse courses on
Chinese History
Show steps
-
Attend conferences or workshops related to Chinese history
-
Reach out to professors or researchers in your university or local community
-
Network with professionals on LinkedIn or other online platforms
Review 'History of China' by John King Fairbank
Show steps
This academic work will provide you with the background information needed for a deeper understanding of the course materials.
View
H.B. Morse, Customs Commissioner and Historian...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase the book from a vendor
-
Designate time slots on your calendar to read the book
-
Take notes on key topics, eras, and figures
Follow an online course on Chinese history
Show steps
Taking an introductory online course on Chinese history will familiarize you with the broader historical context of the Qing Dynasty and its significance.
Browse courses on
Chinese History
Show steps
-
Research and identify reputable online learning platforms
-
Enroll in an online course that aligns with your learning goals
-
Follow the course modules, complete assignments, and participate in discussions
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Build a timeline of events during the 19th century in China
Show steps
Creating a detailed timeline of 19th-century events in China will deepen your understanding of the historical context and chronology of the course content.
Browse courses on
Qing Dynasty
Show steps
-
Gather information from reliable historical sources and textbooks
-
Identify key political, economic, social, and cultural events
-
Organize the events chronologically and place them on a timeline
-
Include relevant context and details for each event
Gather resources on the impact of Western influence on China in the 19th century
Show steps
Compiling resources on this topic will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the impact of Western influence on China during this period.
Show steps
-
Search for books, articles, and online resources on the topic
-
Organize the resources into categories or themes
-
Create an annotated bibliography or a digital collection
Write an essay comparing the challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty with those faced by a contemporary nation
Show steps
Conducting a comparative analysis of challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty and a contemporary nation will enhance your critical thinking and research skills.
Browse courses on
Qing Dynasty
Show steps
-
Choose a contemporary nation that presents comparable challenges
-
Research and gather information on both the Qing Dynasty and the contemporary nation
-
Identify common challenges and analyze their similarities and differences
-
Develop a thesis statement and organize your essay
Seek out a mentor who specializes in Chinese history
Show steps
Connecting with an experienced historian will provide you with guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
Browse courses on
Chinese History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend conferences or workshops related to Chinese history
- Reach out to professors or researchers in your university or local community
- Network with professionals on LinkedIn or other online platforms
Review 'History of China' by John King Fairbank
Show steps
This academic work will provide you with the background information needed for a deeper understanding of the course materials.
View
H.B. Morse, Customs Commissioner and Historian...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase the book from a vendor
- Designate time slots on your calendar to read the book
- Take notes on key topics, eras, and figures
Follow an online course on Chinese history
Show steps
Taking an introductory online course on Chinese history will familiarize you with the broader historical context of the Qing Dynasty and its significance.
Browse courses on
Chinese History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify reputable online learning platforms
- Enroll in an online course that aligns with your learning goals
- Follow the course modules, complete assignments, and participate in discussions
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Build a timeline of events during the 19th century in China
Show steps
Creating a detailed timeline of 19th-century events in China will deepen your understanding of the historical context and chronology of the course content.
Browse courses on
Qing Dynasty
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information from reliable historical sources and textbooks
- Identify key political, economic, social, and cultural events
- Organize the events chronologically and place them on a timeline
- Include relevant context and details for each event
Gather resources on the impact of Western influence on China in the 19th century
Show steps
Compiling resources on this topic will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the impact of Western influence on China during this period.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for books, articles, and online resources on the topic
- Organize the resources into categories or themes
- Create an annotated bibliography or a digital collection
Write an essay comparing the challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty with those faced by a contemporary nation
Show steps
Conducting a comparative analysis of challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty and a contemporary nation will enhance your critical thinking and research skills.
Browse courses on
Qing Dynasty
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a contemporary nation that presents comparable challenges
- Research and gather information on both the Qing Dynasty and the contemporary nation
- Identify common challenges and analyze their similarities and differences
- Develop a thesis statement and organize your essay
Career center
Learners who complete Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. They specialize in a particular subject area and share their knowledge with students through lectures, discussions, and assignments. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Professor with specialized expertise in modern Chinese history. The course's focus on the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the role of intellectuals can help a Professor develop research agendas and create engaging course materials on this topic. It can also provide insights for teaching students about the complexities of Chinese history and culture.
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. They use primary and secondary sources to study and understand historical events, trends, and patterns. This course on the fall of Imperial China provides a deep dive into a specific period of Chinese history, allowing a Historian to gain specialized knowledge about the factors that led to the downfall of the Qing dynasty. The course's exploration of Western imperialism, dynastic decline, and the role of intellectuals can provide valuable insights for research and analysis.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists acquire, preserve, and provide access to historical documents and materials. They work in various settings, including libraries, museums, government agencies, and corporations. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide an Archivist with specialized knowledge of a significant period in Chinese history. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, the impact of Western imperialism, and the rise of new ideas can help an Archivist better understand and manage historical documents related to this era.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. They work in various settings, including schools, public libraries, and corporate libraries. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Librarian with specialized knowledge of a significant period in Chinese history. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, the impact of Western imperialism, and the rise of new ideas can help a Librarian better understand and assist patrons interested in this era.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs and activities for museum visitors. They work in a variety of settings, including art museums, history museums, and science museums. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Museum Educator with specialized knowledge of a significant period in Chinese history. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, the impact of Western imperialism, and the rise of new ideas can help a Museum Educator create engaging and informative educational programs for visitors interested in this era.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers represent the United States abroad. They work in embassies and consulates, where they promote American interests and provide services to U.S. citizens. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Foreign Service Officer with a deeper understanding of Chinese history and culture. The course's focus on the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the role of intellectuals can help a Foreign Service Officer better understand contemporary China and navigate complex diplomatic situations.
Political Analyst
Political Analyst
Political Analysts study and interpret political systems and events. They provide insights and advice to policymakers, businesses, and the media. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Political Analyst with historical context and insights into the complexities of Chinese politics and society. The course's examination of the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the role of intellectuals can help a Political Analyst better understand contemporary Chinese politics and make informed predictions about future developments.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They work for newspapers, magazines, websites, and other media outlets. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Journalist with historical context and insights into the complexities of Chinese history and culture. The course's examination of the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the role of intellectuals can help a Journalist better understand and report on contemporary issues related to China.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems and political behavior. They use research methods to investigate the distribution and exercise of power in society. This course on the fall of Imperial China may provide a Political Scientist with insights into the historical development of China's political system. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the rise of new ideas can help a Political Scientist better understand the factors that have shaped China's political landscape.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They use economic models and data to analyze economic trends and make predictions about the future. This course on the fall of Imperial China may provide an Economist with a deeper understanding of the historical context of China's economic development. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the impact of new technologies can help an Economist better understand the factors that have shaped China's economy.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. They prepare and file legal documents, conduct research, and represent clients in court. This course on the fall of Imperial China may provide a Lawyer with a deeper understanding of the historical context of China's legal system. The course's coverage of the Qing dynasty's decline, Western imperialism, and the impact of new technologies can help a Lawyer better understand the factors that have shaped China's legal landscape.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators oversee the day-to-day operations of museums. They plan and direct the exhibition and preservation of collections, conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of the institution, and manage the institution's budget and staff. By taking this course on the decline of Imperial China, a Museum Curator may learn about the impact of Western imperialism on Chinese culture and how this led to the fall of the Qing dynasty. This knowledge may assist in understanding broader trends in Chinese history and culture, which could be highly beneficial in curating exhibitions and making decisions about the museum's collection.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. They examine the cultures, languages, archaeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide insights into the cultural and societal changes that occurred during this period, helping an Anthropologist understand the complexities of Chinese history and culture. The course's focus on the impact of Western imperialism and the introduction of Christianity can also offer valuable perspectives on the interplay between different cultures.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human societies and social behavior. They use research methods to investigate social institutions, social change, and social problems. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Sociologist with insights into the social and cultural changes that occurred during this period. The course's focus on the impact of Western imperialism and the introduction of Christianity can also offer valuable perspectives on the interplay between different cultures and social systems.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the cultural practices and beliefs of different societies. They conduct fieldwork to observe and interact with people from other cultures, and they use their findings to understand human behavior and cultural diversity. This course on the fall of Imperial China can provide a Cultural Anthropologist with insights into the cultural and societal changes that occurred during this period. The course's focus on the impact of Western imperialism and the introduction of Christianity can also offer valuable perspectives on the interplay between different cultures.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/15rsbr/invasions
Reading list
We've selected 15 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China.
This scholarly work provides a comprehensive overview of the late Qing period, covering political, social, economic, and cultural developments leading up to the fall of the dynasty.
A well-written and accessible account of the Qing dynasty, offering insights into its rise, challenges, and eventual decline.
Save
Provides a detailed examination of the Opium War, a pivotal event that had profound consequences for China's relationship with the West.
An in-depth study of the role of Christian missionaries in China, exploring their impact on Chinese society and the complex interactions between the two cultures.
Save
Provides a historical overview of the Qing dynasty during its peak, shedding light on the factors that contributed to its success and stability.
Save
An engaging and informative account of the life and influence of the Xiangfei, a concubine from Xinjiang who played a role in the Qing court during the 19th century.
A popular biography of the influential Empress Dowager Cixi, providing insights into her life, reign, and the challenges she faced during a turbulent period in Chinese history.
Save
While not directly related to the course's specific focus period, this book offers valuable insights into China's struggle with foreign powers in the 20th century, providing context for the challenges faced by the Qing dynasty.
Save
This powerful account of the Nanjing Massacre adds depth to the understanding of Japan's aggression in China, shedding light on the atrocities committed during a dark chapter in history.
Although beyond the course's specific time frame, this book provides valuable insights into China's contemporary engagement with Africa, offering a broader perspective on China's role in the global arena.
Save
Offers a contemporary perspective on China's rise and the implications for the world, providing a contrasting view to the historical focus of the course.
This broad overview of Chinese history provides a comprehensive background for understanding the Qing dynasty and its place in China's long and complex history.
Save
This collection of essays by renowned historian Jonathan Spence explores various aspects of modern Chinese history, offering insights into the broader context of the course's focus period.
Provides a historical overview of Beijing, the capital of the Qing dynasty, offering insights into its urban development and cultural significance.
Save
This historical account of the Boxer Rebellion, which occurred towards the end of the Qing dynasty, provides context for the tensions and conflicts that contributed to the dynasty's decline.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/15rsbr/invasions
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Effort
1 to 3 hours per week for 15 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructors
Peter K. Bol
William C. Kirby
Session
May 29, 2024
- May 28, 2025
Language
English
Transcripts
English
中文
This course belongs to a
collection
called
History of China: The Modern Era. It's comprised of five courses:
- Contemporary China: The People's Republic, Taiwan, and Hong Kong
- Modern China’s Foundations: The Manchus and the Qing
- Creating Modern China: The Republican Period to the Present
- China and Communism
- Invasions, Rebellions, and the Fall of Imperial China (viewing)
Good to know
Teaches an overview of the modern history of China, which is standard in many disciplines
Taught by Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, who are recognized for their work in modern Chinese history
Explores how China engaged with the West and how this confrontation still resonates today, which is highly relevant to understanding contemporary international relations
Develops an understanding of the Qing dynasty and its impact on the history of China
Examines the impact of imperialism and dynastic decline on the Qing dynasty, which is foundational for understanding the history of China
Does not require learners to be familiar with China's history or modern history in order to take this course, making it accessible to a broad range of learners
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