Empress Dowager Cixi (1835–1908) was one of the most powerful women in human history. She entered the Forbidden City as a low-ranking concubine, but through intelligence and political maneuvering, she eventually became the de facto ruler of China for 47 years during the late Qing Dynasty.
Because traditional Chinese law did not allow a woman to sit on the throne, Cixi ruled by placing her young son (and later her nephew) as the official Emperor. During government meetings, she would sit behind a yellow silk curtain, whispering instructions to the Emperor. This practice became known as "????" (chui lian ting zheng) or "Ruling from behind the curtain."
Cixi’s reign was a difficult period. China faced pressure from Western powers and needed to modernize its military and technology. Cixi is often criticized by historians for spending vast amounts of money on the Summer Palace (including a famous marble boat) instead of building a modern navy. However, others argue she was simply trying to preserve Chinese tradition in a world that was changing too fast.
Analyze the text to answer the following questions.
1. Vocabulary: In the first paragraph, the word "maneuvering" refers to:
A) Physical exercise and training.
B) Skillfully moving or managing a situation to gain an advantage.
C) Building walls and gates.
2. Cultural Tradition: Why did Cixi have to sit behind a curtain during government meetings instead of on the throne?
3. Critical Thinking: The text mentions a "marble boat." Why do some historians use this as an example of poor leadership during her reign?
4. Summary: Based on the final paragraph, what were the two opposing views historians have of Cixi’s legacy?