China and the Modern World: The Fall of the Qing

Course Description

Welcome to "China and the Modern World: The Fall of the Qing," an engaging and comprehensive course offered by HarvardX. This introductory-level course provides a captivating journey through a pivotal period in Chinese history, exploring the transition from the height of the Qing Dynasty's power to its eventual fall and the birth of modern China.

In this course, you'll delve into the fascinating story of how the Qing Dynasty, once the wealthiest and most powerful state on Earth, faced unprecedented challenges during the 19th century. You'll explore the complex interplay of internal and external forces that led to the decline of a 2,000-year imperial tradition and set the stage for China's emergence into the modern world.

What You'll Learn

• A comprehensive overview of modern Chinese history
• The Qing Dynasty's forced re-encounter and engagement with the West
• The impact of imperialism on China and the process of dynastic decline
• The ultimate causes behind the fall of the Qing dynasty
• How Chinese intellectuals grappled with Western ideas and technologies
• The effects of the opium epidemic and the Opium War on China
• The introduction and impact of Christianity in China during this period
• The concept of Chinese salvation and its ideological implications
• The historiography of periodization and defining the modern period in Chinese history

Prerequisites

This course is designed as an introductory-level offering, and there are no specific prerequisites. However, a general interest in history, particularly Asian or Chinese history, would be beneficial. Basic English language proficiency is required, as the course is conducted in English.

Course Coverage

• The zenith of Qing Dynasty power in the 18th century
• The challenges faced by the Qing in the 19th century
• The impact of Western imperialism on China
• The Opium War and its consequences
• The introduction of Christianity to China
• The concept of Chinese salvation
• The confrontation between traditional Chinese and Western ideas
• The decline and ultimate fall of the Qing Dynasty
• The transition from imperial China to the modern era

Who This Course is For

• Students of history, particularly those interested in Asian or Chinese history
• Individuals curious about China's transition to modernity
• Anyone seeking to understand the historical context of China's current global position
• Professionals working in international relations, business, or diplomacy with China
• General knowledge enthusiasts looking to broaden their understanding of world history

Real-World Applications

• Enhancing cross-cultural understanding in business and diplomatic relations with China
• Providing context for current geopolitical issues involving China
• Informing policy decisions related to China in various fields
• Enriching travel experiences to China with deeper historical knowledge
• Improving critical thinking skills through analysis of complex historical processes
• Developing a more nuanced understanding of global history and interconnections