Zhang Zhidong

Author: Yang Junshi
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-07-01
Features: Became a Xiucai (a scholar) at the age of 13, won the top position in the provincial examination at 15, and became the third place winner (Tanhua) at 26. Joined the Qing Party, though he advanced to the rank of a high-ranking official, "after his death, he was left with nothing but an empty purse, and his family of over 80 members struggled to make a living." Fought against the French in the southern frontier, stood firm like a pillar in the turbulent times. Advocated for war in the First Sino-Japanese War, fully supported the front. Implemented Westernization policies, seeking practical strength. His political character had two traits: one was being opportunistic, and the other was attaching himself to power. Presented the "Encouragement to Learning" to Emperor Guangxu, indicating that he had already diverged from Kang Youwei and Liang Qichao in theory. The "Mutual Guarantee of the Southeast" aimed to adopt a policy of compromise to preserve a clean and pure southeast for the Qing Dynasty's rule. Amidst the thorns and thistles, he adhered to the principle of "enlightening the emperor's mind, strictly upholding his ministerial duties, implementing new policies, and not abandoning old traditions," exhausting the very last drop of his blood for the declining dynasty.