JOURNAL ARTICLE

Never a "God in China": Frederick Townsend Ward and China's Taiping Rebellion.

  • Published In: Historical Journal of Massachusetts, 2025, v. 53, n. 1. P. 57 1 of 3

  • Database: America: History and Life with Full Text 2 of 3

  • Authored By: ZHENMAN YE 3 of 3

Abstract

The article delves into the involvement of Frederick Townsend Ward, a Massachusetts native, in leading a foreign mercenary corps during China's Taiping Rebellion from 1860-62. While Ward's troops achieved some victories, they were not crucial in securing Shanghai or influencing the conflict's outcome. The Qing Court acknowledged Ward's efforts but viewed him as a loyal subject, attributing his success to divine will or his superiors. American biographers have exaggerated Ward's significance in the conflict, overshadowing his role in defending Shanghai. The text also discusses the establishment of a memorial temple for Ward in China and the American Legion's role in maintaining it in the early 20th century. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Historical Journal of Massachusetts. 2025/01, Vol. 53, Issue 1, p57
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Law
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0276-8313
  • Accession Number:182249306
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