IT was to throw the past away according to china's ruler.> See related link below .
They were attempts to rid China of the increased number of foreigners that were taking over the lands of China.
It was based on religious motivations.
sudden change of mind different perspectivesany influences
the boxers were unhappy about droughts and high unemployment they also were mad about the foreign economic activities in China at the time (recent treaties with Britain and other countries)