What was the Boxer Rebellion primarily aimed at?

The Boxer Rebellion was primarily aimed at expelling foreign influence from China. This movement, which took place between 1899 and 1901, was a response to the growing presence and control of foreign powers in Chinese affairs, particularly following a series of unequal treaties that favored Western nations and Japan.

The Boxers, a group of Chinese nationals who formed the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists, criticized foreign missionary activities and the intrusion of foreign powers into Chinese society, culture, and economy. They believed that the presence of foreign entities was undermining traditional Chinese values and sovereignty. Therefore, their primary goal was to remove foreign influence and restore what they considered the rightful order in China, which included driving out foreign nationals and closing down foreign-run businesses and churches.

This movement led to violent uprisings and significant confrontation with foreign military forces. While other aims, such as gaining independence or promoting democracy, might have been underlying aspirations for some Chinese nationalists at various times, the Boxer Rebellion distinctly focused on resisting foreign domination and protecting Chinese sovereignty.