Introduction to the Special Exhibition "The Governor-General of Zhili and Zhili Province"

The Governor-General was the highest-ranking local official responsible for governing one or several provinces, overseeing administrative affairs within their jurisdiction. The position of Governor-General of Zhili became an established office in 1724 during the second year of Emperor Yongzheng's reign in the Qing Dynasty. Over the course of eight emperors and a span of 187 years, the role was held by 74 individuals across a total of 99 separate terms—earning it the famous saying, "One Governor-General's mansion mirrors half of Qing history." By the mid-to-late Qing period, the Governor-General of Zhili had risen to become the most prestigious among the eight major provincial governors, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the Qing dynasty's rule and driving the nation toward modernization. This exhibition centers on the historical events that occurred during the tenure of each Governor-General of Zhili, showcasing their governance achievements and lasting contributions through four key perspectives: politics, military affairs, economy, and education/culture.

Hall 1 (Xike Room): This exhibit traces the development of the Zhili region, its governors-general, and the administrative headquarters of the governor-general. As a key strategic area near Beijing, Zhili’s provincial governors held particularly significant responsibilities compared to those in other provinces—often chosen directly by the emperor himself. The Zhili Governor-General’s Office is one of the best-preserved provincial government complexes from the Qing Dynasty still standing today. Over the centuries, it has witnessed the reigns of eight imperial dynasties alongside its successive governors, making it an enduring testament to Qing-era history.

Second Exhibition Hall (East Science Room): This exhibit highlights several renowned governors-general of Zhili from the Qing Dynasty and their notable achievements. Many of them were key figures in the imperial court, holding positions of great influence. Some offered candid advice to the emperor and worked to reform and strengthen governance; others bravely resisted foreign invasions, even leading troops into battle firsthand; while others advocated for reforms during the late Qing period, actively supporting modernization efforts.

Exhibition Hall 3: As a critical military stronghold guarding the capital region, Zhili has historically been home to a robust military presence. The Governor-General of Zhili oversaw all provincial military affairs, bearing the vital responsibility of defending the imperial capital. After the First Opium War, however, the existing military system proved increasingly inadequate to meet the growing challenges. In response, successive governors-general gradually implemented military reforms, catalyzing the modernization of China’s military during the late Qing dynasty—and leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of military strategies in later generations.

Fourth Exhibition Hall: During the early and middle Qing dynasty, the Governor-General of Zhili primarily commanded the Green Standard Army to safeguard the capital. By the late Qing period, however, the Governor-General of Zhili also served as the Minister of Beiyang, overseeing the training of a modernized New Army aimed at repelling foreign aggression. In their relentless struggle to uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity, both military personnel and civilians demonstrated an unwavering spirit of resistance.

Exhibition Hall 5: The Zhili region features extensive plains and favorable soil and water conditions, making it highly suitable for agriculture and fostering the development of traditional farming. At the same time, its strategic location along major transportation routes has spurred the growth of handicrafts and a thriving commodity economy. However, the region has long grappled with challenges such as floods, droughts, and frequent warfare. Successive governors have prioritized addressing water-related disasters, investing in irrigation projects, and boosting agricultural productivity—driving the commercialization of crops and fueling broader economic progress.

Exhibition Hall 6: Facing external economic pressures, the Qing government gradually eased its restrictions on trade and Western-style reforms. Under the leadership and initiative of the Governor-General of Zhili, the province's modernization of its economy began with military industries and eventually expanded into civilian enterprises. Meanwhile, management practices shifted from purely government-run operations to a model where the government supervised private businesses.

Exhibition Hall 7: During the Qing Dynasty, the official education system—retaining the structure established during the Ming era and including prefectural, provincial, and county schools—was complemented by the widespread establishment of private institutions like academies. Among these regions, Zhili enjoyed a particularly strong literary tradition and produced a wealth of talented individuals. However, as times evolved, the limitations of the imperial examination system gradually became apparent. Consequently, the Qing government shifted its focus—from preparing candidates solely for exams to cultivating practical, real-world expertise. This marked the beginning of a nationwide movement to establish modern-style schools, with Zhili leading the way in pioneering educational reforms at the time.

Exhibition Hall 8: The Zhili region boasts a profound cultural heritage, with historical documents and artistic works from various dynasties still preserved today. Successive governors often took the lead in compiling local chronicles and writing scholarly works, dedicating themselves to documenting and passing down the region's rich cultural legacy. As a key strategic area near Beijing, Zhili pioneered advancements in several aspects of modern cultural initiatives, with some of its efforts even serving as valuable models for others.