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The Empress Xiaozheyi page suggests that the Tongzhi Emperor died of syphilis and his mother ordered a coverup. This is a popular rumour, supported by anecdotal and circumstantial evidence. However, the evidence supporting the official cause of death (i.e. smallpox) is far more substantial. Medical experts in modern times generally agree that the Tongzhi emperor died of smallpox or of complications arising from smallpox. I'm a writer with a background in academic research; I am thoroughly conversant with the facts of the Tongzhi Emperor's illness, as documented in both Chinese and English-language sources; I too concur that he died of smallpox. My opinion doesn't matter, though; what *does* matter is the reporting of rumour as fact. It's fine to mention the syphilis thing as long as you're clear that it is a rumour, albeit one widely believed. The fact that it *is* such a popular rumour is precisely why it's important to clarify the facts and clearly distinguish truth from rumour. While it makes for a good story, there's been more than enough innuendo and falsehood muddying the waters on this particular issue without adding to it. One reason the syphilis rumour has gained so much momentum at various times over the last 150 years is because it serves the agenda of those seeking to demonise Cixi. Enough is enough. The Tongzhi Emperor died of smallpox. Any rumours to the contrary should be discussed *as* rumours, not as fact. 118.102.94.159 (talk) 11:20, 8 July 2023 (UTC)[reply]
