Question

How did Hong Xiuquan attract followers for his rebellion against the Qing dynasty?

He wanted to end extraterritoriality for British citizens.
He captured and occupied the city of Nanjing, making it his capital.
He had a plan for increasing the opium trade.
He had a vision of sweeping changes, such as property rights.

Answers

Answered by GPT-4o mini
Hong Xiuquan attracted followers for his rebellion against the Qing dynasty, known as the Taiping Rebellion, through a combination of his religious vision, discontent with the Qing rule, and his calls for socio-economic reforms. Here are a few key factors that contributed to his ability to attract followers:

1. **Religious Vision**: Hong claimed to be the younger brother of Jesus Christ and established a new Christian-based religion called the God Worshipping Society. His religious fervor and the promise of salvation resonated with many who were disenfranchised or suffering under the Qing dynasty.

2. **Anti-Qing Sentiment**: The Qing dynasty was seen by many as corrupt and ineffective. Hong capitalized on the widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling Manchu elite, especially among Han Chinese who felt marginalized.

3. **Socio-Economic Reforms**: Hong's vision included significant societal changes, such as land redistribution (property rights) and the abolishment of opium smoking, which appealed to peasants and those who suffered from poverty and exploitation under the Qing regime.

4. **Militaristic Appeal**: Hong’s followers were organized into a military force, which provided a sense of identity and purpose. The Taiping army was able to achieve initial military successes, further bolstering recruitment.

5. **Occupation of Nanjing**: Capturing and occupying key cities, including Nanjing, which he made the capital of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, helped to legitimize his movement and attract more followers looking for a stable alternative.

While Hong did have a vision of broad changes, particularly regarding property rights and social equity, the other options listed (ending extraterritoriality, increasing the opium trade) do not accurately reflect his goals in the context of attracting followers for the rebellion.

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