5. The Self-Strengthening Movement
Reacting to a string of humiliating defeats, reform-minded officials initiated the Self-Strengthening Movement. Their goal was to modernize China’s military and industry by embracing Western technologies and learning. While shipyards, arsenals, and schools were established, deep-rooted opposition from conservative elements stalled true transformation. This struggle between progress and tradition left China’s modernization incomplete, setting the stage for further challenges ahead.
