Emperor Taizu of Song, Zhao Kuangyin

Author: Zhang Xu, Mei Hua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-01
Features: This book is part of the "Chinese Emperors Series" and focuses on "Zhao Kuangyin, the First Emperor of Song." Zhao Kuangyin was a warrior emperor. In his youth, he adhered to the belief that "in chaos, use martial might; in peace, use literature," and, joined the army under Guo Wei, contributing greatly to the establishment and consolidation of the Later Zhou Dynasty. Due to his outstanding military achievements, he gained the favor of the second emperor of Later Zhou, Li Rong, and was enfeoffed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Guard, holding significant power over the elite forces. After Li Rong's death, his young son, Zhao Zongxun, ascended to the throne. Under the plotting of his advisor Zhao Pu and his younger brother Zhao Kuangyi, Zhao Kuangyin launched the historically famous "Xincheng Coup," seizing power and establishing the Great Song Dynasty. Later, to prevent loyalists from seizing the throne, he promoted civilian officials and, with great reluctance, relieved his sworn brothers Murong Yanzhao, Han Lingkun, Shi Shouxin, and others of their positions in the Imperial Guard, transferring them to regional appointments—a move known as "Unfurling the Later Power with a Cup of Wine." He never forgot the unification of the nation. With great courage and boldness, supported by Prime Minister Zhao Pu, he swiftly crushed the rebellion of the "Two Li" and, in one go, annexed the independent states of Nanping, Wuping, Later Shu, Nanhan, and Nan Tang, ending the chaos of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms and largely achieving unification. This book portrays the group of warrior figures such as Guo Wei, Li Rong, Zhao Kuangyin, Murong Yanzhao, Han Lingkun, and Shi Shouxin, revealing their significant roles before and after gaining power. It depicts not only the grand scenes of their battles but also the ruthless political struggles and subtle diplomatic conflicts. It also touches upon the romantic affairs between Zhao Kuangyin and the Flower Boudoir Lady and the Golden City Lady, as well as the decadent court life of figures like Li Yu, the Last Emperor of Nan Tang, and Liu, the Last Emperor of Nanhan.