Tongzhi Emperor

Reign: 1861 – 1875
Life: 1856–1875

His reign, which effectively lasted through his adolescence, was largely overshadowed by the rule of Empress Dowager Cixi. Although he had little influence over state affairs, the events of his reign gave rise to what historians call the "Tongzhi Restoration", an unsuccessful modernization program. The Self-Strengthening Movement, in which Qing officials pursued radical institutional reforms following the disasters of the Opium Wars and the Taiping Rebellion, began during his reign. He was outmaneuvered by the dowager empresses.

During Tongzhi Emperor's reign, William III of the Netherlands ruled Netherlands, Wilhelm I ruled Prussia, and Franz Joseph I of Austria ruled Austria.

Want to learn more? Further reading

China: A History by John Keay

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

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