key term - Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists

Definition

The Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists, commonly known as the Boxer Rebellion, was a Chinese secret society that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for resistance against foreign imperialism and Christian missionary activities. The group believed in traditional Chinese culture and sought to protect their country from foreign influence, which they viewed as corrupting and damaging to China's sovereignty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists gained support from many peasants who were frustrated with economic hardships and foreign exploitation.
2. The Boxer Rebellion was marked by violent attacks on foreigners, Chinese Christians, and those associated with foreign governments, resulting in significant loss of life.
3. In response to the rebellion, an eight-nation alliance, including the United States, Britain, Japan, and others, intervened militarily to suppress the uprising in 1900.
4. The aftermath of the Boxer Rebellion led to the Boxer Protocol, which imposed heavy penalties on China, including indemnities paid to the foreign powers involved.
5. The rebellion is often viewed as a reaction against imperialism and sparked nationalistic sentiments that contributed to the eventual fall of the Qing Dynasty.

Review Questions

• How did the beliefs and actions of the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists reflect the socio-political climate in China during the late 19th century?
  • The Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists emerged during a time of great turmoil in China, as foreign powers increasingly exerted control over trade and influence. The group's belief in traditional values and their desire to expel foreigners resonated with many Chinese who felt marginalized by imperialist policies. This reflected a broader discontent with the Qing Dynasty's inability to protect Chinese sovereignty and effectively respond to foreign encroachment.
• Discuss the international implications of the Boxer Rebellion and how it affected China's relationships with foreign powers.
  • The Boxer Rebellion had significant international implications as it showcased China's vulnerability to foreign influence and intervention. The response from an eight-nation alliance highlighted the willingness of foreign powers to collaborate against a common threat. Additionally, the harsh penalties imposed on China through the Boxer Protocol deepened resentment among Chinese nationalists and altered China's relationship with foreign powers, leading to increased tensions and a push for reform within the country.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Boxer Rebellion on China's political landscape and its journey towards modernization in the early 20th century.
  • The Boxer Rebellion had a profound impact on China's political landscape, as it exposed the weaknesses of the Qing Dynasty and intensified nationalist sentiments among Chinese intellectuals and reformers. The backlash against foreign domination prompted calls for modernization and change, ultimately contributing to revolutionary movements that sought to overthrow imperial rule. This period laid the groundwork for significant transformations in Chinese society, leading towards a more modern nation-state by the early 20th century.

Related terms

Boxer Rebellion:

A violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising in China from 1899 to 1901, fueled by the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists, aimed at expelling foreign powers and their influence.

Qing Dynasty:

The last imperial dynasty of China, which ruled from 1644 until its fall in 1912; its decline contributed to the rise of movements like the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists.

Open Door Policy:

A diplomatic policy proposed by the United States in 1899 that aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China and maintain China's territorial integrity amid foreign pressures.