The Self-Strengthening Movement, primarily occurring in China during the latter half of the 19th century, represented a period of institutional reforms initiated during the late Qing dynasty following a series of military defeats and unequal treaties with Western powers. The endeavor aimed to modernize the military, economy, and educational systems through selective adoption of Western technologies and knowledge while preserving core Confucian values.
The initiatives undertaken during this period had varying degrees of success. Investment in arsenals and shipyards led to the construction of modern weaponry and naval vessels, bolstering China’s military capabilities, albeit not enough to fully withstand foreign aggression. Furthermore, the development of industries such as textiles and mining spurred economic growth, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and skilled workers. The establishment of new schools and the translation of Western texts sought to cultivate a new generation of officials with technical expertise. These actions provided a foundation for later modernization efforts in China.
