The Ming Empire (1368-1644)

In mid-15th century, the Mongol Yuan Empire crumbled under the weight of revolts and rebellions. Zhu Yuanzhang, a Han Chinese military commander, defeated the Yuan in 1368 and proclaimed himself Emperor Hongwu. The Ming Empire survived until 1644 when a rebel warlord conquered Beijing; soon after Manchu armies prevailed and established the Qing dynasty (1644-1912).