Before the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), Han Chinese men traditionally combed their hair backward and shaved their foreheads. This hairstyle was deeply rooted in Han culture, which made up 98% of China’s population. However, when the Manchu-led Qing Dynasty overthrew the Ming Dynasty in the 17th century, they imposed their own hairstyle under threat of execution. The mandated queue required men to shave the front of their heads while growing and braiding the remaining hair into a long ponytail. This decree sparked widespread resistance, leading to violent rebellions, as it was seen as a forced symbol of submission to the Qing emperor. Over time, as the dynasty ruled for nearly three centuries, the queue became ingrained in society. The tradition finally ended in 1922 when the last emperor cut his queue, marking a shift away from imposed customs.
