Origins & Early Life

Xu Shichang (Chinese: 徐世昌; pinyin: Xú Shìchāng; Wade–Giles: Hsü2Shih4-ch'ang1; courtesy name Juren (Chinese: 菊人; pinyin: Júrén; Wade–Giles: Chu-jen); 20 October 1855 – 5 June 1939) was a Chinese politician who served as the President of China from 10 October 1918 to 2 June 1922. A member of the Anhui clique, he was the only permanent president of the Beiyang government to be a civilian; his presidency was also the longest of the Warlord Era. Previously, he was Minister of the Cabinet of the Imperial Cabinet during the Qing dynasty. Xu Shichang's ancestral hometown was Yinxian County (current Yinzhou District), Ningbo, Zhejiang.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Born in Weihui, Henan, he was Yuan Shikai's closest friend. He was at one time the Viceroy of the Three Northeast Provinces, served as minister of the cabinet in Prince Qing's Cabinet, and tutored the final Qing Emperor, Puyi. At the end of the Qing dynasty, Xu was made chief of the general staff despite being a civilian. Following the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the Republic of China, he was appointed minister of state by Yuan Shikai in 1912, as the latter hoped that this would appease the pro-Qing Royalist Party. Xu...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

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