Historical Timeline

Key events in Ming Dynasty history during the period covered by Illumine Lingao.

1628 - The Transmigration

Early 1628 - 500 modern people arrive at Lingao County on Hainan Island.

September 1627 - Chongzhen Emperor ascends throne after his brother's death.

1628 - Severe drought begins in northern China, triggering widespread famine.

1629 - Manchu forces raid through the Great Wall, reaching the outskirts of Beijing.

1630 - Rebel leader Li Zicheng begins his uprising in Shaanxi Province.

1631 - Famine spreads across northern provinces.

1633 - Multiple rebel groups active across China.

1635 - Rebel forces control large territories in central China.

1636 - Hong Taiji proclaims the Qing Dynasty, replacing the Later Jin.

1638 - Qing forces capture key cities in Liaodong.

1640 - Ming Dynasty's fiscal situation becomes critical.

1641 - Li Zicheng captures Luoyang, kills the Prince of Fu.

1643 - Li Zicheng declares himself king, establishes Shun Dynasty.

April 1644 - Li Zicheng's forces capture Beijing. Chongzhen Emperor commits suicide.

June 1644 - Qing forces enter Beijing, beginning Qing Dynasty rule.