Qing Dynasty Political, Cultural, and Social Structure

Vocabulary practice cards reviewing the leadership, political apparatus, social classes, and economic systems of the Qing Dynasty.

Kangxi

Qing emperor who incorporated Taiwan, Mongolia, and Central Asia into the empire, imposed a protectorate over Tibet, and instituted literary inquisitions.

Emperor Qianlong

Qing ruler under whose early reign government tax collections peaked and administration flourished, and who sent military forces into Tibet to place the Dalai Lama on the throne.

Literary Inquisitions

Oppressive investigations and censorship measures enforced by Kangxi to secure the legitimation of his rulership and that of his two successors.

Literary Index

A regulatory catalog used by Qing rulers to confine demoralizing writings, particularly popular novels not composed in classical Chinese.

Six Boards

The core administrative bodies of the Qing central government—covering Civil Appointments, Finance, Rites, War, Punishments, and Works—each overseen by two presidents and four vice presidents.

Dual Appointments

A Qing administrative system where every central government post was simultaneously staffed by one Manchu and one Han Chinese official.

Outer Court

The government division located in the northern section of the Forbidden City responsible for managing routine administrative matters.

Confucianism

The primary ethical and political foundation endorsed by Qing emperors to govern the majority Han Chinese population.

Tibetan Buddhism

A religion patronized by Qing emperors who presented themselves as Buddhist sage-kings to establish legitimate authority over Mongols and Tibetans.

Private Scholars' Gardens

Celebrated architectural works of the Qing era that made use of rockery and pond designs to reflect miniature natural landscapes.

Mean People

The lowest hereditary social caste, consisting mainly of Indigenous populations and professions like servants, actors, and musicians, who were barred from examinations and intermarriage.

Good People

Respectable commoners in Qing society who were legally prohibited from marrying members of the 'mean people' class.

Civil Service Exam

A merit-based testing system through which individuals could qualify for and attain government positions.

Champa Rice

An agricultural staple that tripled China's population, thereby freeing up labor for the production of luxury goods.

Hogs (Merchant Firms)

Merchant firms appointed by the Qing dynasty to administer and maintain a monopoly over foreign commercial trade.

Silk Road

A trade network that facilitated the cross-continental movement of goods as well as ideas and religions, including Christianity and Buddhism, during the Qing era.