Qianlong's Response to Lin Shuangwen Rebellion

The Lin Shuangwen rebellion was a significant uprising that highlighted the tensions between the Qing dynasty and the indigenous populations in Taiwan. Following the rebellion, Emperor Qianlong recognized the issues stemming from the administration of fertile lands that were left to the aborigines, which he deemed unproductive. This situation led to an influx of illegal settlers who encroached upon these lands, exacerbating conflicts and instability in the region. The Qing dynasty had historically categorized aborigines into two groups: acculturated (shufan) and non-acculturated (shengfan). The shufan were those who had adopted Han Chinese customs, while the shengfan retained their traditional ways. The Qing's lack of effective governance over the aborigines contributed to the unrest, as they rarely imposed control or sought to integrate these communities into the imperial framework. Qianlong's response to the rebellion indicated a shift in policy, recognizing the need for better management of these lands to prevent further illegal settlement and unrest.