During the Qing Dynasty's rule over Taiwan, various rebellions broke out, reflecting the complicated dynamics between different ethnic groups and the state. In 1723, aboriginal tribes along the central coastal plain and Han settlers in Fengshan County separately revolted, underscoring the tensions between local populations and Qing governance.

In 1720, the Zhu Yigui rebellion emerged as a response to increased taxation, illustrating the economic pressures felt by the local population. Zhu Yigui and Hakka leader Lin Junying led the rebels in a sweeping victory over Qing forces across Taiwan. However, their alliance was short-lived, and a Qing fleet under Shi Shibian was dispatched to crush the rebellion. Zhu Yigui was captured and executed, extinguishing one of the most significant anti-Qing uprisings in Taiwan during this period.

In 1786, a new revolt broke out led by Lin Shuangwen of the Tiandihui society, sparked by the arrest of society members for tax evasion. The rebellion initially gained momentum, with many rebels consisting of new arrivals from mainland China who struggled to find land. Despite attempts to enlist support from the Hakka people, the Qing managed to suppress the uprising by 1788 with 50,000 troops led by Li Shiyao, and later, additional forces led by Fuk'anggan and Hailanqa. Unlike previous revolts, the Tiandihui's rebellion was not motivated primarily by national or ethnic grievances but was more a sign of broad social unrest. Lin Shuangwen was executed, marking the end of another significant challenge to Qing authority in Taiwan.

Throughout the 200 years of Qing rule, it is noted that the plains aborigines were mostly non-rebellious and mountain aborigines were largely left alone until the final decades of Qing administration. Most revolts were initiated by Han settlers, often for reasons such as taxation or social discord rather than ethnic or national interests.