The Strategy of Yongzheng

Author: Zheng Baoye
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-06-01
Features: The strategic wisdom of an emperor who pioneered a golden age. Emperor Yongzheng is perhaps one of the most legendary emperors in history, reigning from 1723 to 1735. If emperors had terms of office, with a five-year rotation, he could be considered to have served an extra term before passing away, which covered the flaws and added color to his long-reigning father, while also leaving a historical space for his son to develop in terms of governance and military achievements. The time was neither too long nor too short; it should be said that it was just right. During these (about ten years), he was resolute and capable, with deep and far-reaching strategies, making numerous innovations in politics and the economy, and laying a foundation for the Kangxi and Qianlong reigns of the Great Qing Dynasty. Emperor Yongzheng's skills in governance and strategic art were truly remarkable. In autocratic politics, whether it was competing for power, exercising power, or holding onto power, Emperor Yongzheng's political art had a certain exemplary quality. It can be said that the lessons he provided for governance could be read as having profound meaning.