Hong Xiuquan proclaims the Taiping Rebellion at Jintian

Background. The conflict originated in Guangxi due to religious persecution of the God Worshipping Society. A famine in 1849 and local threats in 1850 intensified tensions. By 1850, Hong Xiuquan had between 10,000 and 30,000 followers. Leaders directed followers to converge in Jintian, amassing a significant force. This buildup set the stage for armed confrontation with Qing authorities.

Outbreak. In late December 1850, a small-scale battle occurred. In early January 1851, a 10,000-strong rebel army organized by Feng Yunshan and Wei Changhui routed Qing forces in Jintian. An imperial offensive was launched on the 1st day of the first lunar month of 1851. The uprising was formally declared on 11 January 1851, coinciding with Hong Xiuquan's birthday.

Proclamation. On 11 January 1851, Hong Xiuquan declared himself the Heavenly King of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. This declaration formalized the uprising and established the rebel state. The event is known as the Jintian Uprising, named after the rebel base in Jintian, a town in Guangxi within present-day Guiping.