Chiefdom of Lithang
Chiefdom of Lithang, or Chiefdom of Litang, was an autonomous Tusi chiefdom ruled Litang during Qing dynasty. Lithang, Bathang, Chakla and Derge were called "Four Great Native Chiefdom in Kham" by Chinese.
At first Lithang was ruled by Khoshut Khanate. Lamas of Lithang Monastery were appointed the desi to govern here. In 1719, a Chinese army under Yue Zhongqi marched to conquer Tibet, Lithang lama surrendered to Chinese. 7th Dalai Lama's stepfather was appointed the chieftain by China; Lithang lama was appointed the vice chieftain. In 1725, Lithang was separated from Tibet. From then on, it was under the jurisdiction of Sichuan.
Lithang revolted against Qing China in 1905. However, the rebellion was soon put down by Zhao Erfeng. The last chieftain was killed in action, and vice chieftain committed suicide. Lithang was annexed by China in the next year.
