The Taiping Rebellion was an armed insurrection against the Qing dynasty of China lasting from 1850 to 1864. It was led by Hong Xiuquan, a leader of an initially unsuccessful Chinese peasant religious movement known as the God Worshipping Society, who declared himself the brother of Jesus Christ and founder of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. The Taiping Rebellion was one of the deadliest civil wars in history, resulting in the deaths of 20-30 million people and causing significant damage to the Chinese population and economy.
The major players in the Taiping Rebellion were:
1. Hong Xiuquan (洪秀全): Hong Xiuquan was the leader of the God Worshipping Society and the founder of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. He proclaimed himself the brother of Jesus Christ and began a rebellion against the Qing dynasty. He led the movement for almost 15 years until his death in 1864.
2. Yang Xiuqing (楊秀清): Yang Xiuqing was Hong Xiuquan’s second-in-command, serving as the Heavenly King’s chief advisor and military strategist. He was instrumental in helping Hong Xiuquan expand his control and strengthening the Taiping Rebellion.
3. Shi Dakai (施大愷): Shi Dakai was a prominent general of the Taiping Rebellion and one of the most successful commanders of the Taiping forces. He was noted for his courage and brilliant military tactics which helped win several key battles.
4. Li Xiucheng (李秀成): Li Xiucheng was another successful general of the Taiping army, responsible for leading and overseeing many of the campaigns. He was noted for his strategic insight and bravery on the battlefield.
5. Feng Yunshan (馮雲山): Feng Yunshan was the leader of the Nian Rebellion, another peasant uprising against the Qing dynasty. His efforts contributed to the weakening of the Qing dynasty, ultimately paving the way for the success of the Taiping Rebellion.
6. Zeng Guofan (曾國藩): Zeng Guofan was the commander-in-chief of the imperial forces and was sent to quell the Taiping Rebellion. He is credited with restoring peace to the region and successfully defeating the Taiping forces.
7. Li Hongzhang (李鴻章): Li Hongzhang was a prominent politician and military leader of the late Qing period. He served as a top advisor to the emperor and was instrumental in suppressing the Taiping Rebellion and restoring order to the region.
8. Cixi (慈禧): Cixi was the Dowager Empress of the Qing dynasty during both the Taiping Rebellion and the Boxer Rebellion. She was instrumental in putting down both uprisings and restoring peace to the region.