Qiwu

Qiwu refers to a specific period in Chinese history, primarily associated with a major rebellion that took place in the year 1644. The term literally translates to "seven five," and it is believed to refer to the seventh month of the year and the fifth day, though interpretations vary. This rebellion marked a pivotal moment, contributing to the downfall of the Ming Dynasty and the eventual rise of the Qing Dynasty.

The Qiwu rebellion was not a singular event but rather a culmination of widespread discontent and unrest that had been building for years. Factors such as natural disasters, economic hardship, heavy taxation, and ineffective governance fueled the popular uprisings. Various rebel factions emerged, with Li Zicheng being one of the most prominent leaders. His forces eventually captured Beijing, leading to the suicide of the last Ming emperor, Chongzhen.

While the Qiwu rebellion itself was relatively short-lived in its most intense phase, its consequences were far-reaching. It created a power vacuum that allowed the Manchu-led Qing forces to enter China and establish their rule. The Qiwu period is therefore a crucial reference point for understanding the transition from the Ming to the Qing dynasties and the subsequent centuries of Qing rule in China. The term is often used by historians to encapsulate this turbulent transitional phase.