Why did the Hundred Days of Reform fail during the Quig Dynasty

Answer 1

The Hundred Days of Reform (also known as the Wuxu Reform) was launched in 1898 during the Quig Dynasty in China. It aimed to modernize and reform various aspects of Chinese society, including government, education, military, economy, and legal system. However, it ultimately failed due to several factors:

1. Resistance from conservative forces: The reformist efforts posed a threat to the vested interests and power of the ruling elite and conservative officials within the government. They resisted any changes that would undermine their authority and privilege, leading to opposition and sabotage of the reform initiatives.

2. Lack of support from the emperor: Emperor Guangxu, who initiated the reform movement, faced opposition from conservative officials and Empress Dowager Cixi, who was the real power behind the throne. The emperor's lack of assertiveness and authority weakened the reform movement and allowed conservative forces to undermine its progress.

3. Social unrest and opposition: The reform measures introduced changes that challenged traditional Chinese customs and values. This led to opposition from various societal groups, including conservatives, scholars, and peasants, who feared the erosion of their cultural identity and the disruption of their way of life. Their resistance and protests further weakened the reform movement.

4. Anti-foreign sentiment: The implementation of reforms, particularly in areas such as education and military, involved adopting Western ideas and methods. This was seen by some as a capitulation to foreign powers and led to the rise of anti-foreign sentiment, especially among the conservative forces. The anti-foreign sentiment further fueled opposition and weakened the reform movement.

5. Coup by Empress Dowager Cixi: In September 1898, Empress Dowager Cixi staged a coup, taking control of the government and sidelining Emperor Guangxu. She then halted the reform initiatives and imprisoned the emperor, effectively ending the Hundred Days of Reform. Her actions demonstrated the strength of conservative forces and their determination to maintain the status quo.

Overall, the failure of the Hundred Days of Reform was a result of the resistance from conservative forces, lack of support from the emperor, social opposition, anti-foreign sentiment, and the coup by Empress Dowager Cixi. These factors combined to undermine the reform movement and maintain the traditional power structures in China.