The Era of the Warlords, 1916-27

What was the warlords era in China?

This was a period of time after General Yuan Shikai's death, where individual generals ruled their own local provinces.

When was the warlords era in China?

The warlords era in China lasted from the death of General Yuan Shikai in 1916 to 1927.

Who were the warlords in China?

Warlords were usually local generals who seized control of their provinces. There were hundreds of these generals, who each ruled their province differently.

Who were the most powerful warlords in China?

3 of the more powerful warlords were:

• ❖ Feng Yuxiang ruled with a Christian mentality and believed in ruling his province morally.
• ❖ However, Zhang Zongchang was a violent ruler who ruled with fear against any opposition.
• ❖ Similarly, Zhang Zuolin used extreme violence and punishments against his own men to warn them against rebellion.

Why did the warlords era in China happen?

There was a power vacuum after General Yuan Shikai's death, and no one could secure the power to rule with the same authority. However, the local generals appointed by Yuan Shikai had enough power to rule their own provinces.

What were the consequences of the warlords era in China?

Due to the harsh treatment meted out by the majority of the warlords, and ineffective individual responses from the provinces to natural disasters, many people began turning to more radical ideas.