However, many foreign citizens viewed the Boxer Rebellion as an expression of patriotism For example, this was a popular interpretation in the United States in particular, made even more popular by influential public figures including Mark Twain, which undermined public support of America’s role in the eight-nation alliance (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Sebring, 2014). This viewpoint was generally shared by Chinese emigres, as well as foreign-educated Chinese nationals who had returned home (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Sebring, 2014). The rebellion was ended through the combined efforts of an ‘ Eight-Nation Alliance of foreign superpowers, which, included Japan (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Eight-Nation Alliance, 2016 Sebring, 2014).Ĭommon sentiment within China constructed the Boxers as backwards, anti-progress barbarians, though after the uprising this morphed into recognition of their role in combating the crimes of foreign and domestic imperial powers (coinciding with widespread cultural and political change within China) (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Sebring, 2014). It similarly led to conflicting viewpoints amongst foreign audiences, especially in the United States where the American Civil War was still a living memory for many.

Internally, its objectives included dismantling China’s own imperial dynastic influence, and this led to conflicting support and focus amongst China’s political leadership and general population regarding the Boxer Rebellion cause (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Sebring, 2014). The Boxer Rebellion was advanced by the Yihequen Movement (“Militia United in Righteousness” termed “Boxers” in English) (Boxer Rebellion, 2016).

Foreign media provided important channels for influencing critical interpretation of the conflict, primarily aimed at motivating public support within the eight nations that cooperated to subdue the uprising and afterwards carve up China amongst themselves (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Eight-Nation Alliance, 2016 Sebring, 2014). Within the worldwide context of growing Western imperialism, China’s 1899-1901 Boxer Rebellion represents a critical nationalist action protesting foreign control and Christian missionary infiltration and co-optation (Boxer Rebellion, 2016 Sebring, 2014).

Victoria 2 boxer rebellion