The dynasty that succeeded the Ming Dynasty in China was the Qing Dynasty. Established in 1644, the Qing Dynasty was the last imperial dynasty in China, ruling until the abdication of the last emperor in 1912. The Qing emerged from Manchuria and expanded China's territory significantly, becoming one of the largest empires in history. This era witnessed significant cultural exchanges, economic growth, and challenges such as the Opium Wars, which would eventually lead to broader reforms and changes in Chinese society and governance.