Dressing for power. Scholars' robes, school uniforms and military attire in China

Like political leaders the world over, those of China’s dramatic 20th century sought to dress in styles they anticipated would connote their authority and legitimacy to rule or signify particular ideological inflections of their rulership. As China moved from a Qing monarchy, to Asia’s first and very fragile Republic, through to a communist state its leaders adopted a wide range of different fashion styles that reflect fundamental principles underlying the political culture of 20th century China.

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