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Final Project

Science and Technology in the Qing Dynasty

The Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) was a time of significant scientific and technological advancements in China. While the period is often seen as a time of conservatism and adherence to traditional values, the Qing era also witnessed innovations in fields like astronomy, medicine, engineering, and more. This page explores the notable achievements in science and technology during this period, illustrating the dynamic interplay between traditional knowledge and new discoveries.

1. Astronomy:

2. Medicine

3. Engineering:

4. Mathematics:

5. Agriculture:

The Qing Dynasty’s achievements in science and technology illustrate a period of both preservation and innovation, where traditional knowledge was upheld while new ideas were explored and integrated. The selected archives provide a window into the technological and scientific advancements that helped shape the Qing Empire's development and legacy.

Navigation Guide:

To continue exploring, visit the next section of this project:

Cultural Exchange and Influence - See how interactions with other cultures shaped Qing art and society.

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This page references:

The Kangxi Emperor’s Celestial Globe This celestial globe was commissioned by the Kangxi Emperor, one of the Qing Dynasty's most scientifically minded rulers. The globe is a representation of the stars as seen from Beijing, reflecting the emperor’s interest in astronomy and the efforts to reconcile traditional Chinese astronomical knowledge with Western methods introduced by Jesuit missionaries. It stands as a testament to the Qing court’s engagement with global scientific knowledge.
The Compendium of Materia Medica by Li Shizhen
The Grand Canal Renovation Project The Grand Canal, a monumental engineering project originally constructed in ancient China, was extensively renovated during the Qing Dynasty, particularly under the reign of the Kangxi and Qianlong Emperors. This project involved the repair and improvement of the canal’s infrastructure, ensuring its continued use as a vital transportation and irrigation network. The archive includes detailed plans, maps, and records of the renovation work.
The Kangxi Emperor’s Mathematical Treatise
The Complete Book of Agricultural Administration