About Book

Robert D. Jenks presents a comprehensive and nuanced account of the so-called "Miao Rebellion" in Guizhou (1854–1873), a major uprising during the Qing dynasty. Unlike traditional narratives that classify the conflict strictly along ethnic lines—as a Miao (an ethnic minority) revolt—Jenks critically revisits archival materials and contextual evidence to argue that the rebellion was far more complex. He shows that the uprising stemmed from deep-rooted structural issues including social fragmentation, economic distress, local governance failures, and tensions between Han Chinese settlers and various ethnic communities. This book brings to light the interplay of ethnicity, state failure, and regional unrest, and moves beyond ethnic reductionism to a broader understanding of insurgency in historical China. Relevance in the Current Era & Community Engagement Mechanism This study has strong contemporary relevance, especially in discussions about the causes of internal insurgency, the role of marginalized ethnic groups in state formation, and the risks of mischaracterizing rebellions based solely on identity. The insights from this rebellion mirror similar modern insurgencies where ethnic grievances overlap with broader socio-political breakdowns. By re-framing the Miao Rebellion as a case of social disorder and failed governance rather than ethnic conflict, Jenks’ work invites comparative analysis with today’s internal conflicts, including those driven by both real and perceived state neglect. The book also reinforces the importance of community engagement, as it highlights how exclusion, misunderstanding, and top-down policies without consultation often fuel rebellion. This underscores the modern-day need for inclusive governance, conflict-sensitive development, and dialogue-based rehabilitation in post-conflict societies. • Scholarly Rigor: High. Grounded in extensive archival research and critical historiographical revision. Target Audience • Scholars of Asian Studies, history, and ethnic conflict • Experts in counterinsurgency and political violence • Students of comparative rebellion and peasant uprisings • Practitioners interested in state legitimacy and peacebuilding • Innovation: Challenges dominant ethnic narratives and broadens understanding of historical insurgencies. • Usefulness for Repository: Highly relevant for peace, conflict studies, counter-insurgency history, and ethno-political discourse.