The Boxer Rebellion, which occurred in China from 1899 to 1901, ultimately failed due to a combination of internal and external factors. One of the primary reasons was the lack of cohesion among the Boxers themselves. Although they had a common goal of expelling foreign influence and missionaries, their diverse backgrounds and varying motivations led to a disorganized movement.
Additionally, the Boxers underestimated the strength and resolve of the foreign powers. In response to the uprising, an eight-nation alliance, comprising Japan, Russia, Britain, France, the United States, Germany, Italy, and Austria-Hungary, intervened militarily. Their combined forces were far more powerful than the Boxers anticipated, leading to a swift and overwhelming defeat.
Moreover, the Qing Dynasty, which the Boxers initially sought to support, did not fully endorse their actions. This ambivalence weakened the Boxers’ position, as they lacked substantial state support. The Qing government ultimately sided with the foreign powers, further isolating the Boxers.
In summary, the Boxer Rebellion’s failure can be attributed to disorganization among its participants, overwhelming foreign military intervention, and a lack of cohesive support from the Qing government.