Boxer Rebellion
A community under siege.
In the year 1900 sectarian rebels assisted by the Chinese government sought to rid China of foreign influence. The German Head of Legation Clemens Von Ketteler was assassinated by an Imperial Chinese officer.
Beijing’s expatriate community was besieged for 55 days. Governments wavered. Rumors were rampant. The tumult dominated international headlines for a year and left an indelible impact on Beijing.
“The present condition of the city and surrounding districts I would liken to an immense smouldering fire ready to burst into fierce flames.”
— Miss G. L. Smith (London Missionary Society), 1900
Complex, confusing, contradictory.
A view of Legation Street in Beijing, 1900-1901.
The Boxer Rebellion had a tremendous impact on Beijing. When the Eight Allied Nations quelled the uprising, the last door to the innermost workings of the Qing dynasty was kicked in and change was suddenly thrust upon the old conservative capital.
The significance of the events that took place in the summer of 1900 cannot be denied, but neither can the fact that it was a complex, confusing, and at times contradictory episode in Beijing’s history. In this ongoing research project, we work with the narrative through extensive archival research, the study of contemporary published sources and an analysis of secondary material written in both China and the West. Our aim is to see beyond misconceptions and stereotypes to connect the varied, divergent responses to the event and its consequences.
We seek to untangle this fascinating, entertaining but complicated piece of history and to share it with you through our talks, tours, and historical souvenirs. Find our latest Boxer Rebellion events on the event calendar, or get in touch to book a private event.
5-minute Journeys into the Former Legation Quarter
We have been constantly updating 5-minutes videos on our Youtube Channel to share our perspectives on the Boxer Rebellion. Click the video below to explore one of the most disputed pieces of Beijing history with us.
New Findings Related to the Boxer Rebellion
