The Causes of Taiping Rebellion

The Causes of Taiping Rebellion

CAUSES OF TAIPING REBELLION
Political Weakness of the Qing government
Obsolete examination system
Established during the 6th century, focused on a literature and ancient classics, archaic after 13 centuries
Neglected the development of science and technology, unaware of the benefits of science and technology
Best brains of the country spent their entire lives trying to pass the literature exam when they could have been contributing in terms of science
Examination officials were corrupt and limited the number of successful candidates, depriving the government with talented officials
Myopia and closed mentality
China thought they had everything and did not need anything from other countries
Demanded only silver for trade of tea, ceramics and silk, this trade with the British led to a deficit
Government discouraged trade with foreigners, only one port was open to foreigners and all traders had to pay tribute and kowtow to the Emperor.
This led to arrogance and stagnation of society. While other countries were advancing very quickly due to the industrial revolution, China was lagging behind.
Corrupt and inefficient government
Relief funds and taxes were embezzled
This embezzlement left the government with no money to maintain the dams and dykes of the Yangtze and Yellow river which left China susceptible to floods
High provincial authorities were tolerant of infringements to appear good to gain favour
As the government was decentralized, they was frequent corruption and unfair taxation by provincial authorities
The population went up by 2000% while food supply only went up by 5%.
Ideological factors
Role of Hong Xiuquan
Failed the imperial exam three times and became disillusioned, he dreamed he was God’s second son tasked to slay demon and idolatry.
Set up the society of God worshippers and Taiping Heavenly Kingdom.
In this society and kingdom there was equality of the sexes and everybody was promised equal distribution of land and food. This...

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