Biography of Duan Qirui

Author: Cheng Shuwei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-04-01
Features: This book recreates historical scenes such as the Wuchang Uprising, the Second Revolution, the War for the Restoration of the Republic, the Zhili-Fengtian War, and the two Zhili-Fengtian Wars, vividly and comprehensively narrating the various historical figures such as Duan Qirui, Cao Kun, Feng Guozhang, and Zhang Zuolin. It reveals the intricate and shocking backstage politics of the late Qing and Republican eras, exposing the corruption and depravity of old China's political system and condemning the cruelty of reactionary forces. Duan Qirui's life was full of legends, and he was a complex and multifaceted historical figure. He studied abroad in Germany in his early years and received systematic military education, but he did not produce any military writings and did not command battles worthy of historical acclaim. He was promoted and trusted by Yuan Shikai, participating in the creation of the Beiyang New Army and being hailed as the "Tiger of Beiyang." Around the time of the Xinhai Revolution, he became the highest commander of the Beiyang Army, suppressing the Wuchang Uprising and forcing the Qing emperor to abdicate. He swung both ways, supporting Yuan Shikai in seizing the fruits of the revolution and participating in suppressing the Second Revolution. With military power in his hands and great achievements that overshadowed his superiors, he faced suspicion and control from Yuan Shikai.