Li Hongzhang was an important figure in the Cixi period of the late Qing Dynasty. This play tells the story of Li Hongzhang's time. The wars in China, the Reform Movement of 1898 that we are familiar with, the Sino-Japanese War, and the Revolution of 1911 all originated from this period of modern history. In the 20th year of Guangxu, the Empress Dowager Cixi ushered in her 60th birthday. Although Guangxu was in power, Cixi was still in control late. Qing supreme dominion
In disregard of the minister’s objection, Cixi spent huge sums of money to build the Summer Palace to celebrate her birthday, which directly led to the annihilation of the entire Beiyang navy. Li Hongzhang Signed the infamous Treaty of Shimonoseki with the Japanese. Kang Youwei, Liang Qichao and other sons jointly wrote to the imperial court. After the incident failed, Sun Yat-sen launched the Revolution of 1911. However, the fruits of victory were stolen by Yuan Shikai in order to realize the ideal republic. He made a difference to history, but he was too hotheaded to restore himself as emperor. The play ends with Sun Yat-sen's impassioned speech reflecting on the past, reflecting on history, and inspiring the world.