The+Boxer+Rebellion

by Jonathan, Grade 6

The Boxer Rebellion was about China fighting for their culture and to stop foreign influence. Foreign countries like France and Germany had some influence in China. Some countries even had territories where they owned all trading rights. While China was trying to keep foreigners out of their territory, America was trying to get in. The Secretary of State, John Hay, suggested an "Open Door Policy" in China.

The Empress Dowager, Tsu Hsi, was upset about foreigners invading the Forbidden City. A secret society, called Fists of Righteous Harmony, at first wanted to overthrow Tsu Hsi. But the Empress found a way to use them to get rid of foreigners. The Fists of Righteous Harmony got the name Boxer because they practiced martial arts. They also believed they had magic powers, so foreign bullets couldn't hurt them.

In early 1900, the Boxers attacked Christian missions, killing many Christian missionaries and Chinese converts. They moved from city to city, gathering more and more followers. Foreigners and their families found shelter just outside the city walls. They made defenses and faced the Boxer onslaught. The United States came to rescue its ministers and wanted to present itself to China. John hay tried an "Open Door Policy" to all parts of China. The powers agreed. This would help foreign countries to gain access to China's market.

The Boxer Rebellion was about China's fighting for their culture and to stop foreign influence. Even with their differences Tsu His and a secret society, the Fist of Righteous Harmony, came together to stop the foreigners and their influence. The Boxers and their rebellion made a very big impact, to the point where it seemed they would succeed. The international relief force of soldiers then defeated the Boxers and Imperial soldiers and the "Open Door Policy" allowed foreign access to China's market until World War II closed it again.