The Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) was the last imperial dynasty of China, known for the bold changes that it brought about. During this period, cultural advances and technological successes became part of the Chinese everyday life. The Qing Dynasty also marked a period of greater global engagement and trade, which would help to transform the Chinese economy. There were many major cultural changes during the Qing Dynasty, including:
1. Introduction of Manchu Influences:
For centuries, China had been a largely homogenous society, but with the Manchu conquest of 1644, there came a wave of new influences. Manchu culture began to be integrated into the existing Chinese social structure and everyday life. This included new fashions and clothing, festivals and music, literature, painting styles and food. Manchus even set up their own language schools to try and spread their language among Chinese people. The Manchu, although disliked by many, gradually gained more and more influence and became a growing part of Chinese culture.
2. Development of Education and Literature:
With increased contact with the West, the Qing dynasty saw a surge in literacy rates, with more and more people being able to read and write. Books and texts from around the world could be found in China, allowing for a great expansion of knowledge. New schools were built, and the standard of education rose considerably. Traditional Chinese literature, such as poetry and the novel, also flourished.
3. Promotion of Confucianism:
Despite the introduction of Manchu influences, Confucianism remained a major part of Chinese life. Not only did it continue to be the basis of the civil service examinations, it also shaped the way in which people viewed the world around them. With the strengthening of Confucian values, the Chinese began to embrace traditional virtues such as filial piety and respect towards elders.
4. Growth of Arts and Crafts:
Arts and crafts grew in popularity during the Qing Dynasty. Silk-making, porcelain-making and lacquerware-making all developed rapidly, and many new arts began to appear. Some of these include the ink painting tradition of ‘literati painting’, and the famous Beijing opera. Beijing opera is a unique type of theatre that combines music, mime, martial arts and singing.
5. Expansion of Trade:
The Qing Dynasty was a period of economic growth and prosperity, due mainly to the continued expansion of trade. It was during this time that China opened up to the Western world. This allowed for foreign traders to come to China, bringing with them new technologies and industries. As a result, the Chinese economy was greatly improved and many new jobs were created.
6. Increase in Technological Advances:
Thanks to the increased contact with the West, Chinese science and technology experienced an unprecedented level of progress. European inventions such as the printing press and the steam engine were introduced, and the modern calendar and clock were adopted. Even elements of Chinese culture such as Chinese medicine benefited, with the first Chinese reference book on medicinal plants being published during this period.
Overall, the Qing Dynasty was a period of great cultural advances and technological breakthroughs. New ideas and influences entered China, while the Chinese themselves did not remain stagnant, but instead began to embrace these changes and develop their own unique culture. By the end of the Qing Dynasty, China had become a more modern, economically prosperous and culturally diverse nation.