Eunuchs of Imperial China

Note: Thoughtful discussion, comments, or questions are encouraged. However, any profane, irrelevant, or just plain stupid comments will not be allowed! The history of imperial China cannot be understood without knowing the significant role played by the Eunuchs. Often, they were able to use their intimate connection to the Emperor and the royal family to manipulate the throne and enrich themselves. Indeed, several Eunuchs throughout Chinese history became the de facto rulers. This video lecture is a brief introduction to the Eunuchs of Imperial China. For an excellent discussion of the history of Eunuchs within Christianity see "The Practice and Prohibition of Self-Castration in Early Christianity," by Daniel Caner in Vigilae Christianae, vol 51, No. 4 (Nov., 1997), pp. 396-415. http://goo.gl/NIYDaK This video is for use by history classes at Richland Community College. The images and video used in this production are either in the public domain or qualify as fair use under 17 USC § 107 and the TEACH Act of 2002. Background music under license by jewelbeat.com and Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com).