A contemporary book, "The New Emperors," provides a well researched look into the present day all-male ruling Chinese Politburo. However, there is an amazing true story of women taking the initiative to obtain total power in male dominated China for 47 years, and in terms of modern history, it was a very recent event. From 1861 through 1908, Empress Dowager Cixi effectively (but unofficially) ruled China. She shared power with Empress Dowager Ci'an from 1861 until Ci'an's death in 1881. During their years of rule, China experienced the aftermath of the Opium Wars, the First Sino-Japanese War and the Boxer Rebellion. Empress Cixi and Empress Ci'an found a way to share power and successfully guide China through troubling times. If you are interested in women who "leaned in," check out this exceptional historical reality.
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