Li Zicheng - Historiography

Historiography

Although the success of the Manchurian conquest of China was attributed to the weakening of the Ming Dynasty (exacerbated by Li Zicheng's rebellion), ironically, official historiography during the Qing Dynasty period regarded Li as an illegitimate usurper and outlaw. This view sought to discourage and demonize notions of rebellion against the Qing government, by propagating that the Manchus put an end to Li's illegitimate rule and restore peace to the empire, thus receiving the Mandate of Heaven to rule China. In 20th century China, the anti-Confucian and radical inclinations of the Communist Party of China viewed Li favourably, portraying him as an early revolutionary against feudalism.