Empress Dowager Cixi's Imperial Navy Embarks on a Journey of Prosperity In the late 19th century, naval power was crucial to a nation's prosperity and security. Empress Dowager Cixi of the Qing Dynasty understood this well and ordered the construction of the Imperial Navy. The navy's first significant voyage took place in 1884 when three Chinese warships set sail for Japan to escort Prince Chun on his return from studying abroad. This voyage marked the beginning of the Empress Dowager's ambitious naval program and started a journey of prosperity for the once struggling economy. As the Imperial Navy grew, new ships were built, including the Dingyuan and the Zhenyuan, which were the most advanced battleships of their time. These ships played a significant role in China's successful defense against Japan during the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. The Empress Dowager's Imperial Navy also opened up opportunities for trading and diplomatic missions, particularly in Southeast Asia. In 1898, a naval expedition led by Admiral Liu Buchan visited Singapore and Bangkok, further solidifying China's relations with its neighboring countries. The navy's voyages also encouraged Chinese immigration to Southeast Asia, as it became safer and more accessible to travel. The Imperial Navy's success marked a turning point in China's history, where maritime power became essential in maintaining national security and economic prosperity. Empress Dowager Cixi's vision and investment in naval power paved the way for China's modernization and set a precedent for the country's future leaders. In conclusion, Empress Dowager Cixi's Imperial Navy, also referred to as the "Di Shui Shi," was a significant 『领略更多 星座性格解析资讯请关注 :剑兰星座分析网,WwW.iJIanLan.Com〗milestone in China's history. It created new opportunities for trade, diplomacy, and migration, securing China's economic and national security. Its success inspired future generations of leaders to prioritize maritime power and set China on the path towards modernization.