Yuan Shikai (Part 3) and the 1911 Chinese Revolution

Yuan Shikai's New Army becomes a national model and military reforms spread throughout China. The death of the Empress Dowager brings Zaifeng in as regent to Pu Yi, the three year old emperor. Yuan is sacked and briefly fears for his life. He quietly retires for over two years. A Qing railway reorganization in Sichuan leads to rebellion. Imperial troops are moved south and the remaining Wuchang Garrison launches a mutiny. The 1911 Revolution has begun and the Qing Court appoints Yuan as Governor General to suppress the rebels. Many see the Qing cause as hopeless. Shikai leads troops that gain control of the north bank of the Yangtze River, but after deadly urban combat. Negotiations take months, but eventually lead to a generous abdication package for Pu Yi and an imperial edict ends the Qing Dynasty and proclaims the Republic of China. 2000 years of imperial dynasties end with an almost bloodless struggle. Yuan becomes President as China celebrates the end of Manchu rule. But the honeymoon period will not last long.

"Revolution of 1911" by Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D. is marked with CC0 1.0.

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