“Contemporary Chinese called the eighteenth century unparalleled in history, when all aspects of culture flourished. China was a prosperous state with abundant natural resources, a huge but basically contented population, and a royal house of great prestige at home and abroad” (afe.easia.columbia.edu).
Unknown. "Map and Flag of the Qing Dynasty." Qing Dynasty China.n.d. N. pag. print.
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The Qing (1644-1912) were the last of a long line of dynasties that ruled China. Foreigners that came to China paid tribute to the Chinese court. The Chinese believed they had everything they needed at home and saw no reason to look to the outside world. |
Gillray, James. The Reception the Diplomatique and His Suite, at the Court of Pekin. 1792. Etching. National Portrait Gallery, London.