Nurhaci reorganized and united various Jurchen tribes (the later 'Manchu'), consolidated the Eight Banners military system, and eventually launched attacks on Ming China and Joseon Korea. Nurhaci was part of the Aisin Gioro clan, and reigned from 1616 to his death in September 1626. Nurhaci was a Jurchen chieftain who rose to prominence in the late 16th century in Manchuria. The Qing Dynasty was founded by ethnic Manchus who took over China. They form the largest branch of the Tungusic peoples. The Manchu are an ethnic minority in China, and the people from whom Manchuria derives its name.
