Description
Empress Dowager Cixi by Jung Chang is a compelling biography of one of China’s most influential and controversial rulers. Cixi, once a low-ranking concubine in the Qing dynasty, rose to power in the mid-19th century and effectively ruled China for nearly five decades. Often depicted as a ruthless despot, Chang presents a revisionist view, portraying Cixi as a reformer who modernized China by introducing railways, telegraphs, and diplomacy while navigating the rigid imperial court and foreign threats.
Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book offers a nuanced perspective on Cixi’s political acumen, her struggles against conservative factions, and her vision for a stronger China. Jung Chang challenges traditional narratives, arguing that Cixi laid the foundations for China’s modernization despite being vilified in historical accounts.
This biography is a fascinating read for those interested in Chinese history, female leadership, and the complexities of power in a rapidly changing world.
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