This 19th-century reform effort in China aimed to modernize the nation by adopting Western technology and military strategies while preserving Confucian values and institutions. It involved initiatives to build modern arsenals, shipyards, and schools, coupled with diplomatic efforts to revise unequal treaties.
The movements significance lies in its attempt to address internal rebellion and external threats from Western powers. It represented a pragmatic, if ultimately insufficient, response to the challenges posed by Western imperialism. Though it achieved some industrial and military progress, it was limited by decentralized control, corruption, and resistance from conservative elements within the Qing government, hindering comprehensive modernization.
