Guangxus

Guangxu refers to the Guangxu Emperor of the Qing Dynasty of China. He reigned from 1875 to 1908, though his actual power was significantly curtailed by his aunt, Empress Dowager Cixi, who acted as regent for much of his reign. He was born on August 14, 1871, and his personal name was Zaitian. Guangxu ascended the throne at the young age of four after his cousin, the Tongzhi Emperor, died without an heir.

His reign was marked by significant internal and external challenges for China. During his rule, China experienced increasing foreign influence and pressure, leading to events like the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895). In an attempt to modernize and strengthen the country, Guangxu initiated the Hundred Days' Reform in 1898. This ambitious reform program aimed to implement sweeping changes in government, education, and the military. However, the reforms were violently suppressed by a conservative faction led by Empress Dowager Cixi, who viewed them as a threat to her power and traditional Qing authority. Following the coup, Guangxu was effectively placed under house arrest for the remainder of his life.

Despite his limited personal agency, Guangxu remains a symbolic figure associated with attempts at modernization and reform in late imperial China. His reign ended with his death on November 14, 1908, reportedly just hours before the death of Empress Dowager Cixi. The exact cause of his death has been a subject of historical debate, with some theories suggesting foul play.