Empress Dowager Cixi, historically known as Empress Xiaoqin, was an important female political figure in the late Qing Dynasty of China. Her path to power began with the favor of her husband, Emperor Xianfeng, and ultimately reached its peak through her skilful political manoeuvres. This article will explore how Cixi gained the favor of Emperor Xianfeng and how she went on to seize power based on this foundation.

Originally named Yehe Nala Xingzhen, Cixi came from an official family and was selected to enter the palace due to her beauty and intelligence when she was young. In the palace, she quickly gained the attention of Emperor Xianfeng with her intelligence, quick wit, and ability to discern the emperor's intentions. According to historical records, Cixi not only possessed outstanding appearance but was also proficient in various talents such as painting, calligraphy, and music, which were important factors in gaining Xianfeng's favor.

As time passed, Cixi not only gained Xianfeng's favor but also gave birth to his only son - the future Emperor Tongzhi. This change in status further consolidated her position in the imperial harem and provided her with the potential to intervene in political affairs.

After the death of Emperor Xianfeng, as the Empress Dowager, Cixi began to participate in political affairs due to the young age of Emperor Tongzhi. Through collaboration with trusted eunuchs and ministers, she gradually expanded her influence. In this process, she skillfully managed relationships with other power groups, including forming an alliance with Empress Dowager Cian and confronting other political factions.

Eventually, through a series of political struggles, Cixi successfully seized the actual power of the Qing Empire. During the period of her administering the country behind the screens in both palaces, she effectively became the supreme ruler of the Qing Dynasty. Under her reign, the Qing Dynasty experienced numerous significant historical events, including the Sino-French War and the First Sino-Japanese War.

In summary, the reason why Cixi was able to seize power was initially due to her gaining the favor of Emperor Xianfeng, which provided her with an opportunity to enter the political arena. She then utilized her wisdom and political skills to gradually consolidate her position in the complex palace politics. Although opinions about Cixi vary among later generations, as one of the few female rulers in Chinese history, her influence and historical status cannot be underestimated.

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