Chinese warlords were military leaders who gained control over specific regions of China, particularly during the early 20th century, following the fall of the Qing Dynasty. They often commanded their own armies and operated independently, leading to a fragmented political landscape. This period, known as the Warlord Era, lasted from the 1910s to the late 1920s. These warlords were often involved in conflicts with each other, as well as with the Nationalist Party and the Communist Party. Their power was based on military strength, local support, and control of resources, which contributed to instability and civil strife in China during this tumultuous time.