The primary factor contributing to the collapse of the Ming Dynasty in China was a combination of internal strife, economic troubles, and external pressures. The dynasty faced significant challenges, including widespread corruption, peasant rebellions, and fiscal mismanagement. The most notable rebellion was the Qing dynasty's rise during the 17th century, which exploited the Ming's weakening authority. Additionally, natural disasters, such as floods and droughts, exacerbated the hardship faced by the populace, leading to societal unrest. By 1644, the Ming Dynasty ultimately fell, allowing the Manchus to establish the Qing Dynasty, which significantly transformed China's political landscape.