Sons and Fathers as Prime Ministers

Author: Chen Suoju
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: There have been more than one officials holding the highest position of Prime Minister in various dynasties of China, but it is rare for father and son to both serve as Prime Ministers in the Qing Dynasty, as the Tongcheng natives Zhang Ying and Zhang Tingyu did. The father and son served three emperors of the Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong reigns. Their diligence, patience, humility, and outstanding talent not only earned the trust of the emperor but also had a positive impact on numerous court policies in politics, economy, palace affairs, culture, and other areas. Zhang Ying contributed to suppressing the "Three Feudatories" and the pacification of Taiwan, and served successively as the author of the "Great Unity of the Great Qing Dynasty," earning widespread praise. Zhang Tingyu was the first Grand Secretary of the Grand Council established by Emperor Yongzheng, and all the regulations of the Qing Dynasty were formulated by him. He also completed the compilation of the "History of Ming" as the chief editor. During his 50 years in office, he gained a remarkable reputation. The father and son, as Prime Ministers, suppressed villains and promoted loyal officials, upheld integrity in office, and were deeply concerned about the people, serving as an exemplary model. The perils of serving a ruler like accompanying a tiger, the patience and negotiation in and outside the palace, the open and hidden struggles among princes and high ministers, and the ups and downs of a career in the political arena all form the dramatic story of the book. The delicate and elegant writing style makes the entire book vibrant with spirit.