The Ming-Qing Military Revolution in Global History: Perspectives on the Development of the Eight Banners Infantry

The China Research Center is pleased to announce an upcoming lecture by: Zhang Jian Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

"The Ming-Qing Military Revolution in Global History: Perspectives on the Development of the Eight Banners Infantry" Date: Friday, November 1, 2024 Time: 4:00 PM Location: Math & Science Building, Room W201

Open to the Public

Zhang Jian, one of China's most prominent young scholars of Qing history and a member of the prestigious Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (中國社會科學院), will present groundbreaking research challenging Eurocentric narratives of military development. His work offers fresh perspectives on the "Great Divergence" debate and the evolution of military technology in East Asia. Professor Zhang will examine how the Manchu-led Qing dynasty transformed from a small ethnic group in the Xing'an Mountains into Asia's dominant power. His talk will focus on the revolutionary changes in their social and military structures between 1627-1690, tracking their evolution from a traditional force using textile armor and siege tactics to a sophisticated multi-ethnic army equipped with firearms and artillery.

This research provides crucial insights into broader questions of military innovation, state formation, and the balance of power in early modern Asia, with implications for our understanding of global military and economic history. The event is generously sponsored by the Hightower Fund of Emory College, the China Research Center of Atlanta,the Emory History Department, the Emory Department of Russian and East Asian Languages and Cultures, and the Emory Program in East Asian Studies

For more information, please contact: Dr. Tonio Andrade Professor of Chinese and Global History Emory University tandrad@emory.edu