Xianfeng Emperor died; Zaichun became Tongzhi Emperor.
On August 22, 1861, the Xianfeng Emperor died, leading to the ascension of his son, Zaichun, at just five years of age, as the Tongzhi Emperor. This transition created a power vacuum that Concubine Cixi capitalized upon, situating herself as a co-regent and effectively governing on behalf of her young son. Her political acumen ensured she became one of the most powerful figures in Chinese history.