The last dynasty that ruled China before the establishment of the Republic was the Qing Dynasty. It began its rule in 1644 and lasted until the early 20th century, characterized by territorial expansion and cultural richness. However, the Qing faced numerous challenges, including internal rebellions and foreign invasions, leading to its downfall in 1912. The fall of the Qing marked the end of over two millennia of imperial rule in China, paving the way for modernization and the republican movement.