How long did Qianlong hold real power in China?

Although the Qianlong emperor formally abdicated in 1796 to avoid exceeding the 61-year reign of his grandfather, the Kangxi emperor, he continued to hold real power until his death in 1799.1

While his official reign lasted 60 years (1735–1796), the customs of the Qianlong era were maintained within the palace throughout his retirement. Consequently, he effectively exercised imperial authority for approximately 64 years, making his period of actual rule the longest in Chinese history. During his final years, he maintained significant influence, including his continued support for the corrupt courtier Heshen, whose removal from power by the Jiaqing emperor could only occur after Qianlong’s death.12