The Qing dynasty was the last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912. It was established by the Manchu people, who conquered the Ming dynasty. The Qing expanded China's territory significantly, incorporating regions like Tibet, Xinjiang, and Mongolia. During its reign, the Qing dynasty experienced cultural flourishing and economic growth, but it also faced internal strife and external pressures. The dynasty struggled with issues such as the Opium Wars and the Taiping Rebellion, which ultimately contributed to its decline and the eventual establishment of the Republic of China.