Yuan Shikai Proclaims Emperor: China's Autocracy Returns
Yuan Shikai declared himself Emperor of China, instantly fracturing the fragile unity of the new republic and igniting a decade of civil war that plunged the nation into chaos. His imperial ambition triggered immediate armed rebellions across multiple provinces, compelling him to abandon the throne just eighty-three days later and leaving a legacy of political instability that hindered China's modernization for years.
December 12, 1915
111 years ago
Key Figures & Places
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