How did population growth and expanded farmland contribute to Qing power in the 18th century?

In the 18th century, the Qing dynasty reached its zenith of power, a status supported by a combination of administrative stability, significant agricultural expansion, and rapid population growth.1

Agricultural Expansion and Economic Base

The Qing government prioritized the restoration of agriculture to ensure a healthy tax base. Early in the dynasty, the state incentivized the resettlement of refugees on abandoned lands by offering tax exemptions and providing essential resources like tools, seeds, and oxen. This reclamation was bolstered by extensive water-control projects, which were vital for managing irrigation in the south and controlling the Huang He in the north.2

The introduction of New World crops—such as corn (maize), sweet potatoes, and peanuts—allowed for the cultivation of previously marginal hilly lands and provided a vital buffer against famine. These agricultural advancements, alongside the commercialization of the economy, generated the surpluses that enabled the Qing state to fund numerous military expeditions and maintain internal prosperity throughout the 18th century.2341

Population Growth

The population tripled from the beginning of the Qing dynasty to the mid-19th century. This growth was facilitated by the stable agrarian foundation and the increased food security provided by new crops. By 1762, the population exceeded 200 million. While this growth initially fueled the dynasty's power, the resulting land hunger and the eventual exhaustion of state surpluses in the late 18th century contributed to later fiscal and social challenges.34256