
What we’re about
If the past is prologue, why not get more familiar with the past? I am interested in forming a monthly discussion group that would investigate topics and controversies from history. My primary interest is modern Western history, but those interested in ancient, medieval, and Renaissance eras would receive their due attention. Because famous individuals are a major part of history, we could also include discussions of those who made great contributions in their own times and our own. I know there are people in the Albuquerque area who are interested in the past. If you are one of them, please consider my proposition here. Every topic suggested will be entertained.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- The Boxer Rebellion of Imperial ChinaCherry Hills Public Library, Albuquerque, NM
The Boxer Rebellion was the officially supported peasant uprising in 1900 in China that attempted to drive all foreigners from the country. “Boxer” was the English name given to a Chinese secret society that practiced boxing and calisthenic rituals in the belief that it would make its members impervious to bullets. Support for them grew in northern China during the late 19th century, when China’s people were suffering from growing economic impoverishment and the country was forced to grant humiliating concessions to Western powers. In June 1900, after Boxers had killed Chinese Christians and Westerners, an international relief force was dispatched to quell the attacks. The empress dowager, Cixi, ordered imperial forces to block its advance; the conflict escalated, hundereds of people were killed, and the matter was not resolved until August, when Beijing was captured and sacked. Hostilities were ended with a protocol (1901) requiring China to pay a large indemnity to 11 countries. Britain and the U.S. later returned much of their reparations, the U.S. using its portion to further Chinese higher education.