The Qianlong Emperor, born Hongli (25 September 1711 – 7 February 1799) is the sixth emperor of the Manchu-led Qing Dynasty, and the fourth Qing emperor to rule over China proper.

The fourth son of the Yongzheng Emperor, he reigns officially from 11 October 1735 to 8 February 1796.1 On 8 February, he abdicates in favor of his son, the Jiaqing Emperor – a filial act in order not to reign longer than his grandfather, the illustrious Kangxi Emperor.

Despite his retirement, however, he retains ultimate power until his death in 1799.

Although his early years see the continuation of an era of prosperity in China, his final years see troubles at home and abroad converge on the Qing Empire.