Evaluate the extent to which foreign involvement led to the collapse of the Qing Empire.

The collapse of the Qing Empire was influenced by a variety of factors, both internal and external. Foreign involvement played a significant role in this collapse, but it was not the sole cause. Here's a step-by-step evaluation:

1. Opium Wars and Unequal Treaties: The Opium Wars (1839-1842 and 1856-1860) between China and Britain marked the beginning of significant foreign intervention in China. The defeat of the Qing Empire led to the signing of unequal treaties, which not only ceded territories like Hong Kong to Britain but also granted extraterritorial rights to foreign powers. This undermined the authority of the Qing Empire and led to a loss of faith in the government among the people.

2. Taiping Rebellion: While the Taiping Rebellion (1850-1864) was primarily a domestic issue, foreign powers played a role in its suppression. The rebellion was a major threat to the Qing Empire, and the government's reliance on foreign powers to suppress it further weakened its authority.

3. Sino-Japanese War: The Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) was another significant blow to the Qing Empire. The defeat of China at the hands of a smaller Asian power, Japan, further undermined the Qing Empire's authority and led to more territorial and economic concessions.

4. Boxer Rebellion: The Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901) was a violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising. The intervention of foreign powers to suppress the rebellion, and the subsequent Boxer Protocol, further weakened the Qing Empire both economically (due to the heavy indemnity) and politically.

5. Influence of Foreign Ideas: The influx of foreign ideas, such as democracy and nationalism, also played a role in the collapse of the Qing Empire. These ideas led to increased dissatisfaction with the imperial rule and contributed to the 1911 Revolution, which eventually led to the collapse of the Qing Empire.

In conclusion, while foreign involvement played a significant role in the collapse of the Qing Empire, it was not the only factor. Internal issues, such as corruption, natural disasters, population growth, and economic problems, also contributed to the collapse.