Western Influence in the Qing Dynasty

In the mid-19th century, China was facing the pressure of Western imperial powers, which forced the Chinese to consider adopting Western technology and knowledge to modernize their society. Feng Guifen discusses the potential benefits of incorporating Western learning into China's traditional knowledge and practices.

Source 1

I have heard that with their new methods the Westerners have found that the movements of the Earth confirm closely to those of the heavens. This can be of assistance in fixing the calendar...I have heard that the Westerners' method of clearing sand from harbors is very effective...Also, for agricultural and sericultural tools, and things required for the various crafts, they mostly use mechanical wheels...There are many intelligent people in China. Surely there are some who, having learned from the barbarians, can surpass them...

Feng Guifen, "On the Adoption of Western Learning," 1860

Question 1

Short answer

Identify one historical development that influenced the writing of the excerpt.

Question 2

Short answer

Explain one way Qing Dynasty reform efforts in the late 19th century reflected the ideas expressed in the excerpt.

Question 3

Short answer

Explain one way the reform efforts the Qing Dynasty undertook in the late 19th century were challenged by elites.

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