Understanding Imperial China: Dynasties, Life, and Culture

The Taiping Rebellion and Its Cult Leader (1x21)

Air date: Sep 22, 2017

The mid 19th century saw both foreign invasion and a revolt that sought to remake Chinese society. Follow the underlying social unrest in South China, and the rise of the charismatic leader Hong Xiuquan, who fomented a rebellion based in religious fanaticism. Observe the military prowess of the rebels, the massive size of the conflict, and how it unfolded as the bloodiest civil war in history.