After Li Zicheng’s exploitation of the weak late Ming Dynasty, the Qing Dynasty was established in 1644. The rulers of the Han Chinese were again foreign–this time Manchus. The Han literati encountered levels marginalization based on ethnicity and few (due to social etiquette) served both dynasties. Individuals thus had to choose to be a remnant subject (one who stays in society and stands the pain of losing former status) or a eremitic subject (one who retreats from society). The literati thus took to resistance. Creative energy among the Hans was at a high at this time and more honest dialogue about previous dynasties occurred. The Han sought to preserve their culture and maintain their positions in society; however, many began to take up different professions beyond official positions and the civil service examination system.