The rise and fall of the Qing dynasty
1644-1912
Nurhaci’s work led to the
founding of the Qing dynasty
in 1644. He unified the ethnic
groups of China, established
the Eight Banners military
system, and declared war on
the Ming dynasty.
Reign of Qing Dynasty Emperors
r. 1616-1626
10
17
17
61 years
12
60
Kangxi, ruling since the
age of 8, was the longest
reigning emperor of the
Qing dynasty and is known
as one of the best emperors
in Chinese history.
r. 1661-1722
24
30
11
14
33
4 years
Puyi was the last and shortest
reigning emperor of the Qing
dynasty. After his abdication in
1912, he retained his title but was
respected as a foreign monarch
by the Republic government of
China.
r. 1908-1912