Academic Research Booklet

6. State the research question and explain the reasoning behind it This reassessment raises important questions regarding the extent to which Empress Cixi contributed to China’s modernisation during the late Qing period. The introduction of new military technologies, industrial developments, educational reforms, and limited political changes all occurred under her rule. Evaluating whether these developments were actively encouraged, reluctantly accepted, or resisted by Cixi is essential to understanding her historical significance and led to the research question To what extent did Empress Cixi contribute to the modernisation of China in the period 1861 to 1908? 7. Outline the methodology / approach The methodology used to answer this question was to begin by exploring primary sources - comparing the seminal biography by Jung Chang with various personal accounts by people who knew her. Sources such as Princess Der Ling’s diary was investigated in order to understand the extent of her efforts to modernise China and the possible political pressure placed on her. However, due to difficulty in finding extensive primary sources, modern secondary sources that utilised primary material helped provide perspectives of historians on Cixi’s role in China. 8. Explain why the question is worth studying This question is worthy of investigation as Mao Zedong has often been given the credit as the figurehead that led China’s modernisation due to the common historical misogyny. 9. Present the line of enquiry / argument (without concluding) Empress Cixi’s achievements have often gone unrecognised, but this investigation reveals it was Cixi who laid the foundation and embarked on China’s modernisation. 10. Consider scope and briefly signpost structure The scope of this essay is limited to the years between 1861, when Cixi first came to power as regent, and her death in 1908. It focuses on political, military, and social reforms associated with modernisation, while revolutionary developments following the fall of the Qing Dynasty are excluded. The essay will examine both supportive and critical interpretations of Cixi’s actions before reaching a balanced judgement on her contribution to China’s modernisation.