About This Course

This course is part of a comprehensive series focusing on China, specifically examining the era of the Qing dynasty in the early 1600s. It navigates through the complexities faced by the Manchus, a minority group, who while embedding themselves within the sophisticated Chinese culture of the time, still aimed to retain their identity as conquerors. The coverage extends to the zenith of China under the reigns of emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong, making it an enlightening precursor to understanding modern China.

Course Description

This history course, offered by HarvardX, delves into the Qing period as the last imperial era before the formation of modern China. Through detailed exploration, participants will learn about the significant transformations and the cultural dilemmas faced by the Qing rulers.

What Students Will Learn

• The conquest of Ming China by the Manchus.
• The establishment of the last imperial dynasty.
• The foundation of modern China built during the Qing dynasty.
• Critical appreciation of China’s vast literary and cultural heritage.
• Enhanced skills in expressing ideas clearly and building confident arguments.

Pre-requisites or Skills Necessary

No prerequisites are required for this course, making it accessible to anyone with an interest in history, particularly Chinese history.

Course Outline

• Introduction to the Qing Dynasty and its origins.
• Analysis of the Manchu conquest and its implications on Chinese society.
• Study of the governance under emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong.
• Evaluation of the cultural exchanges between the Manchus and the Chinese.
• Assessment of the Qing dynasty’s impact on modern Chinese history.

Who This Course Is For

This course is tailored for history enthusiasts, scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the historical context and transformations that shaped modern China. It’s also suitable for educators seeking to enhance their historical knowledge or incorporate comprehensive, global perspectives into their teaching.

Application of Learned Skills

The insights gained from this course are valuable in various fields including academia, research, cultural studies, and international relations. Understanding the historical dynamics of China can enhance cultural competence, critical thinking and provide a robust foundation for engaging with Asian markets in business or diplomatic contexts.