Emperor Taizu of Song, originally named Zhao Kuangyin and nicknamed "Che'er," was the younger brother of Emperor Taizong of Song, Zhao Guangyi. He was born in Jingkou in 407 AD (the third year of Emperor Yixi of Jin'an). At that time, Lu Xun was in rebellion, and young Zhao Kuangyin was only four years old. His father, Zhao Hongyin, sent Liu Cui to take him to the capital for safety.
In 415 AD (the eleventh year of Emperor Yixi), Zhao Kuangyin was appointed Duke of Pengcheng. Later, when his father went to fight against the Qiang tribe and passed by Pengcheng, he left Zhao Kuangyin there to guard the area. The Jin Dynasty court also promoted him, appointing him as the commander of military affairs in Xu, Yan, Qing, and Ji provinces, as well as the governor of Xuzhou, while retaining his position as a general. After the pacification of Guanzhong, his father returned to Pengcheng and promoted him again, appointing him as the commander of military affairs in Sizhou, Yuzhou, Huai Xi of Henan, Guangping of Yanzhou, and Chenliu of Yanzhou, as well as the general of the front, governor of Sizhou, and commander, sending him to guard Luoyang. This was not the end, as he was later appointed as the commander of military affairs in six provinces including Jing, Yi, Ning, Yong, Liang, and Qin, as well as the governors of Henan, Guangping of Yanzhou, Yicheng of Yangzhou, and Songzi, and the general of the Western Central Army, governor of Jingzhou, and commander, while still holding the position of commander.
In 420 AD (the first year of Yongchu), Zhao Kuangyin was appointed Prince of Yidu, with a fief of three thousand households granted to him. He was then sent to guard the northern Qin region, overseeing the seven provinces. He was promoted again, being appointed General of the West, and he was also given a ceremonial guard. Later, he was sent to guard Xiangzhou. That year, at the age of fourteen, he visited the court. He was seven feet and five inches tall (about 1.8 meters), well-versed in various books, and skilled in clerical calligraphy.
In the middle of the seventh month of the second year of Jingping, the young emperor was dethroned. A large group of officials, in formal ceremony, welcomed the new emperor to the throne.
The troops arrived in Jiangling, presenting the emperor's jade seal and seal. Attendant Chen Xiu, Attendant Chen Yi, Chief Secretary Chen Liang, Left Guard General Chen Jingren, Prosecutor Chen Long, Yue Cavalry Captain Chen Gang, Prosecutor Chen Kung, Attendant Chen Liu Siko, External Attendant Chen Pan Sheng, Chief Secretary Chen He Shang, Yulin Supervisor Chen Xiao Sihua, Shangshu Left Deputy Chen Sun Kang, Ministry of Personnel Chen Zhang Maodu, Yicao Chen Xu Changlin, Cangbu Chen Yu Junzhi, Duguan Chen Yuan Xun, and many other officials together submitted a memorial, stating: "We have heard that the rise and fall of fortunes is a cyclical process, and when things develop to the extreme, changes will occur. This is the law of nature and the principle of dynastic change. Recently, the national fortune has declined, the royal family is in difficulty, and the people across the land have nowhere to settle, and the territory established by the founding emperor is on the verge of collapse. Fortunately, Your Majesty is both virtuous and respected, and with the support of heaven and the people, the state is stable, and the people can live in peace. We believe that Your Majesty possesses the qualities of an emperor, with wisdom, martial valor, and filial piety that resonate throughout the realm, and the spirit of benevolence and righteousness prevailing everywhere. Therefore, auspicious signs have been frequently observed, and the omens are ever-present. The spirits of our ancestors bless Your Majesty, and the people across the land eagerly anticipate Your Majesty's arrival. We are fortunate to serve Your Majesty and participate in welcoming Your Majesty's actions, to usher in a new era of prosperity and restore peace and stability. We have arrived in Jiangling, looking towards the capital, with excitement that is hard to put into words, and we have come to present this memorial."
The new emperor replied, "The nation is enduring great difficulties and challenges; the situation is tumultuous and uncertain. I hold great admiration for my ancestors' accomplishments, reflect on the late emperor's aspirations, and feel profound sorrow for his absence. Thanks to the blessings of our ancestors and the assistance of loyal ministers and wise scholars, we have been able to turn peril into peace and restore order. I lack the virtue required for this great responsibility, and I feel anxious and unsure of how to carry it out. I plan to temporarily return to the capital to pay respects at the tomb of the late emperor and discuss state affairs with the wise scholars. I hope everyone can empathize with my feelings and not place too much emphasis on formalities." Officials from various provinces and cities referred to themselves as subjects, requesting to have welcoming signs for the new emperor put up at the city gates according to the standards of the court, but the new emperor did not agree.
On the day of Jiaxu, the emperor set out from Jiangling. On the day of Bingshen in August, the imperial carriage arrived at the capital. On the day of Dingyou, the new emperor paid respects at the tomb of the late emperor, returned to the imperial palace, and officially ascended the throne.
In the year 424 AD, on the eighth day of the eighth month in the first year of Yuanjia, an auspicious day, the court granted a general amnesty across the realm, changing the year from the second year of Jingping to the first year of Yuanjia. Both civil and military officials were promoted, and all outstanding taxes and debts were forgiven. A few days later, Xie Hui was appointed General Who Calms the Army and Governor of Jingzhou. Following that, Xu Xianzhi was appointed Minister of Works, Wang Hong as Minister of Works, Fu Liang was also granted the title of Left Guanglu Daifu and appointed Secretary of the Palace, and Xie Hui was promoted to Guard General. Tan Daoji was also promoted, from General Who Guards the North to General Who Conquers the North. The emperor also posthumously honored his mother, Hu Jieyu, as Empress Dowager and conferred upon her the posthumous title of Zhanghou. Prince Yikang of Pengcheng was promoted to General of Chariots and Cavalry, Prince Yigong was promoted to General Who Calms the Army and also granted the title of Prince of Jiangxia. The emperor also conferred the title of Prince of Jingling on his sixth younger brother and Prince of Hengyang on his seventh younger brother. Later, Liu Cui was transferred to Governor of Yongzhou, Guan Yizhi took over as Governor of Yuzhou, and Dao Yanzhi became the Commandant of the Central Army. To alleviate the burden on the people, the court also decided to halve the tax levy for Jingzhou and Xiangzhou this year. On the third day of the ninth month, the emperor appointed Lady Yuan as his Empress.
In the spring of the second year, on the second day of the first month, Xu Xianzhi and Fu Liang submitted a petition to the emperor to return to political power, and the emperor began to rule directly. On the seventh day of the first month, the emperor went to the southern outskirts to conduct sacrifices and declared another nationwide amnesty. On the twenty-second day of the third month, Wang Zhongde was appointed General of Anbei. On the fifth day of the fifth month, Xie Dan died. In the eighth month of autumn, on the seventh day, the court relocated the displaced people from Guanzhong to Hanchuan and established counties like Jingzhao, Fufeng, and Fengyi. On the eighth day of the eighth month, Prince Yikang of Pengcheng was appointed Palace Supervisor, the newly appointed Wang Hong was appointed Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Jiang Heng was appointed Governor of Guangzhou. On the twenty-eighth day of the eleventh month of winter, Yang Xuan was appointed General of the Western Expedition and Inspector of Beiqinzhou.
In the year XXX AD, in the spring, on the first few days of the first month, Xu Xianzhi and Fu Liang got into trouble and were executed. The emperor sent Dao Yanzhi and Tan Daoji to deal with the Governor of Jingzhou, Xie Hui. The emperor led a large army westward and declared a nationwide amnesty. The next day, Wang Hong was appointed Minister of the Left, Prince Yikang of Pengcheng became Governor of Jingzhou, and Prince Yigong of Jiangxia became Governor of Southern Xuzhou. A few days later, Zhao Lunzhi was promoted. On a certain day in the leap month, the emperor's son, Shao, was born. On the second day of the second month, all the prisoners were pardoned. A few days later, Wang Jinghong and Zheng Xianzhi were appointed Supervisor of the Left and Right, respectively. Pan Sheng got into trouble and was executed. A few days later, Fan Tai was promoted, and the emperor departed from the capital that same day. A few days later, Dao Yanzhi and Tan Daoji defeated Xie Hui at Yinji. The emperor returned from Wuhu. Then, Xie Hui was captured, taken back to the capital, and executed. On a certain day in the third month, the emperor returned to the palace.
One day in May, Tan Daoji was promoted, Yanzhi Dao was also promoted. Prince Yixin of Changsha was also promoted. Juqu Mengxun was also promoted. The emperor issued an edict stating: "A wise king ruling the world must have a broad understanding of the people's sentiments, just as one inspects mountains and rivers and investigates local areas, in order to understand the real situation and so that people from afar can also feel the emperor's benevolence. My abilities are limited, yet I have inherited a great legacy. Although I have always wanted to govern the country well, my abilities are limited, and I do not fully understand the suffering of the people. Therefore, I will personally visit various places to understand the people's feelings. Now that the world is peaceful, it is time to recognize talent and promote learning. Therefore, I will send envoys to inspect various places, record the good officials, good people, and good deeds. If corrupt officials and lawless individuals are found, they must be reported. For the elderly, widows, orphans, and the sick, relief must be provided. Gather public opinions widely, adopt good suggestions, and make sure to inform me of these matters, as if I had witnessed them myself." One day in June, the emperor held court at Yanxian Hall. A few days later, the emperor went to Yanxian Hall to hold court again. And a few days later, the emperor was still holding court at Yanxian Hall. Wang Hua served as the chief military officer. One day in November, Ji Han and Liu Daochan received separate promotions. Liu Zunkao was also promoted. One day in December, Xiao Sihua was promoted. One day, Xu Peizhi rebelled, and he and his accomplices were all killed. In the spring of a certain year, on the first day of the first month, known as Yihai day, the emperor granted amnesty to criminals within a hundred-mile radius of the capital. A few days later, on Xinsi day, the emperor personally went to the southern suburbs for a sacrificial ceremony.
On the Yimao day of the second month, the emperor went undercover to visit Dantu and also paid respects at Jingling. On the Bingzi day of the third month, the emperor issued a decree saying, "Dantu is my hometown, and my career started here. Returning here now, I am overwhelmed with feelings! Thinking back to the Southern Inspection of Emperor Zhang of Han, who even bestowed grace upon Yuanshi County, my connection with the people of Dantu runs even deeper. I must surpass Emperor Zhang of Han. To show my grace and comfort the people, I hereby exempt Dantu County from rent and taxes for this year, and pardon all those who have committed minor crimes that are less than five years old. The soldiers who defended the city in three battles and their families will also receive appropriate compensation based on the actual situation." On the Dinghai day, the Right Chancellor, Zheng Xianzhi, passed away. On the Renyin day, the emperor prohibited the practice of sacrificing five silkworm cocoons during the summer solstice, as proposed by the magistrate of Fuyang County, Zhuge Chan. On the Gengxu day in the fourth month, the emperor appointed Wang Hui, the Right Minister of Justice, as the Inspector of Jiaozhou. On the Renwu day in the fifth month, the Central Protector Wang Hua passed away. An outbreak of plague occurred in the capital. On the Jiawu day, the emperor sent officials to care for the sick and provide medical assistance; if the deceased had no relatives, the court would supply a coffin. On the first day of the sixth month, on the Guimao day, a solar eclipse occurred. On the Gengshen day, the emperor appointed the Grand Minister of Glorious Fortune, Yin Mu, as the General of the Guard.
In the spring of the fifth year of the era, on the Yihai day of the first month, the emperor issued a decree saying: "I respectfully inherit the legacy of my ancestors, leading the people across the seas. However, education has not been widely spread, and there are still many aspects of governing the country that I do not understand. I am worried day and night, restless, seeking solutions to the problems. Recently, there have been imbalances in yin and yang, continuous droughts and plagues. I realize that this is a warning from heaven, and the responsibility weighs heavily on me! I am working hard to reflect on myself, handle affairs with seriousness, formulate punishments, hoping to respond to the condemnation of heaven and alleviate the suffering of the people. All ministers and officials, you must express your own opinions, point out my faults and shortcomings frankly, and do not hold back!"
In the first month of Jia Shen, the emperor went to Xuanwu Hall to review the army. On the day of Wuzi, a big fire broke out in the capital, and the emperor also sent people to inspect and comfort, and ordered relief for the victims. In the fourth month of Jihai, the emperor appointed Xiao Mo, the Southern Barbarian Colonel, as the Governor of Xiangzhou; on the day of Wuwu, he appointed Xu Huo, the Prefect of Shixing, as the Governor of Guangzhou. In the fifth month of Jimao, Zhang Shao was promoted from the Governor of Xiangzhou to the Governor of Yongzhou. In the sixth month of Gengxu, the Left Minister, Wang Hong, was demoted to the Guard General and granted the title of Household Secretary. In the sixth month of that year, there was a flood in the capital; on the day of Yimao, the emperor sent people to inspect the disaster and distribute relief grain. At the same time, Cheng Daohui, the Interior Minister of Jiangxia, was appointed as the Governor of Guangzhou.
In the eighth month of Renxu in autumn, the Grand Master of Joy, Fan Tai, passed away. In the tenth month of Jiachen in winter, the emperor personally tried cases at Yanxian Hall. In the intercalary month of Guiwei, Liu Dewu was promoted from the Right Army Sima to the Governor of Yuzhou. In the month of Xinmao, Duke Zhou Ji of Anlu was appointed as the Governor of Ningzhou. In the twelfth month of Gengyin, the Grand Master of Joy and the General of the Army, Zhao Lunzhi, passed away. In that year, the Kingdom of Tianzhu also sent envoys to offer a selection of exotic treasures.
In the first month of the sixth year of 452 AD, on the first day of the month, which fell on a Xinchou day, the Emperor personally went to the southern suburbs to offer sacrifices. Then, on the third day of the month, Prince Pengcheng Liu Yikang, who was then the General of Chariots and Cavalry and Governor of Jingzhou, was appointed as the Minister of Personnel, overseeing the Ministry of Personnel, and was also concurrently appointed as General Who Pacifies the North and Governor of Nanxu; his official rank rose significantly. On the day of Dingsi in the third month, the Emperor appointed his son Liu Shao as the Crown Prince, which was a significant event. On the fifth day of the third month, a general amnesty was declared across the realm, and civil and military officials were all promoted by one level. On the eighth day of the third month, General of the Left Guard Yin Jingren was appointed as the Central Army Commander. On the day of Guihai in the fourth month, Wang Jinghong, the Minister of the Left Shangshu, was promoted to Minister of the Left, Prince of Linyi Liu Yiqing took over as the Minister of the Left, and the Minister of Personnel Jiang Yi became the Minister of the Right. On the first day of the fifth month, which was the day of Renchen, there was a solar eclipse, which was quite alarming. On the second day of the fifth month, the newly appointed Minister of the Left Wang Jinghong was further appointed as a Special Advancer and Left Guanglu Daifu, truly advancing step by step! On the third day of the fifth month, Liu Daoji was appointed as the Governor of Yizhou. On the fifth day of the fifth month, Fengyi County was established in Yongzhou, marking an adjustment in administrative divisions. On the day of Jiyou in the seventh month, the Minister of the Left Cheng Kongmo was appointed to develop the southern region. In this month, the King of Baekje also sent envoys to present some tributes. On the day of Wuwu in the ninth month, Longxi County and Songkang County were established in Qinzhou, continuing the adjustment of administrative regions. On the day of Renshen in the tenth month, due to a death in his family, Central Army Commander Yin Jingren resigned from his official position and returned home for mourning. On the first day of the eleventh month, which was the day of Jichou, there was another solar eclipse; ancient people must have experienced a lot of these celestial phenomena. On the day of Dinghai in the twelfth month, the Kings of Henan and Hexi both sent envoys to present tributes, suggesting that various regions were relatively stable. In the first few days of the first month of 444 AD, the Emperor appointed the Tuoba leader Murong Gui as General of the Western Expedition, concurrently serving as the Governor of Shazhou. In the same month, the King of Japan also sent envoys to present tributes.
One day in March, the Emperor sent the Right General to Yan Zhi to fight in the north, and the navy also advanced into the Yellow River. Later, the former General who had previously led campaigns against the Lu was appointed as the Governor of Sizhou; then, the former General of the Leading Army, Yin Jingren, became the Leading Army General. One day in April, the Kingdom of Helodan also sent envoys to pay tribute. In June, Champion General Yang Nandan was appointed as the Governor of Qinzhou.
One day in July, the Suolu, a northern ethnic group, abandoned their defense of Qiaoao and fled. A few days later, the Military Advisor Zhen Fahuo was appointed as the Governor of Liangzhou and South Qinzhou. Later, the Suolu also fled from Huatai. Afterwards, the Lin Yi Kingdom, Heluo Tuo Kingdom, and Shizi Kingdom all sent envoys to pay tribute.
One day in October, the court dissolved Nanyu Province, incorporating it into Yuzhou. At the same time, Left General Prince Yixuan of Jingling was appointed as the Governor of Xuzhou. A few days later, a coinage institution was established, and the minting of four-zhu coins commenced. Not long after, Jinyong City fell to the Suolu! On a day in November, Hulao City was also breached by the Suolu! Afterwards, the Emperor dispatched Grand General Tan Daoji northward to engage in battle, while the Right General Yan Zhi retreated from Huatai.
One day in December, the Governor of Nanyuan Province, Prince Yixin of Changsha, was appointed as the Governor of Yuzhou, and the Minister of the Ministry of Rites, Sima Jihan, was appointed as the Governor of Sizhou. On the same day, a fire broke out in the capital, and the fire spread to the north wall of Taisha. Zhu Lingshu, the Governor of Yanzhou, was executed for his crimes.
In the year 452 AD, on the seventh day of the first month, the court reestablished the Zhuyajun district in Jiaozhou. On the tenth day of the same month, Shen Xuan was appointed Governor of Yanzhou. On the fourteenth day, Grand General Tan Daoji defeated the Suolu at Dongpingshouzhang.
On the second day of February, Wei Lang was appointed as the Governor of Qingzhou. On the fifth day, Jiangyi was appointed as the Governor of Xiangzhou. On the eighth day, Huatai City was captured by the Suolu. On the tenth day, General Tan Daoji led his troops in retreat. On the fourteenth day, Xiao Sihua, the Governor of Qingzhou, abandoned the city and fled. Liu Zunkao was appointed as the Governor of Nanyuan Province.
On the first day of March, the emperor personally presided over a trial at the Yanxian Hall. On the fifth day, the emperor issued a decree that read: "In recent years, there have been continuous wars, national expenditures have soared, the national treasury is empty, and the rules and regulations are too cumbersome. They should be streamlined to adapt to the actual situation. All officials, both internal and external, must take this seriously and practice thrift." On the first day of April, Ruan Wanling was appointed governor of Xiangzhou. On the second day, Xu Zunzhi was appointed governor of Yanzhou. On the second day of June, the court issued a decree granting amnesty nationwide. On the sixth day of June, Jinling County in the Jiangnan region and Yangzhou came under the jurisdiction of Nanxuzhou, while the northern region came under the jurisdiction of Yanzhou. At the same time, Prince Yixuan of Jingling was appointed governor of Nanxuzhou, and Sima Jihan was appointed governor of Xuzhou. On the twentieth day of the leap month, the emperor issued another decree that said: "In recent years, agricultural production has been slack, there are many idlers, uncultivated land has not been reclaimed, and urging cultivation has had little effect. If drought or flood strikes, food shortages will follow. Without prioritizing agricultural production, we can't expect to have enough food and clothing. The county magistrates and prefects are responsible for taxation and managing the people; they should take this seriously and guide the people on the right path, encouraging everyone to work hard, avoid wasting land, cultivate crops, raise silkworms, plant trees, and do their part. If someone owns a lot of land but leaves it uncultivated, they must submit a list at the end of the year." In the same year, Yangzhou suffered from a drought. On the twenty-second day, the court dispatched an imperial censor to inspect the prisons and revise the corvée system. On the twenty-third day, Liu Daochan was appointed governor of Yongzhou. On the third day of August, Prince Yiqing of Linchuan resigned as Supervisor of the Left. On the sixth day, Qin County in Yuzhou came under the jurisdiction of Nanxuzhou. In December, the court dissolved Xiangzhou and incorporated it into Jingzhou.
In the year 450 AD, on the Gengxu day of the third month, General Wei Wang Hong was promoted to the position of Grand Guardian and concurrently served as the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat. In the same year, on the Dingsi day, General Tan Daoji, the Grand General of the South and Governor of Jiangzhou, was promoted to the position of Minister of Public Works. On the Yihai day of the fourth month, General Yin Mu was promoted to the position of Special Advisor, Right Guanglu Daifu, and was also granted the title of Duke of Jianchang County; while Zhi Yan was appointed as General of the Guards.
On the Renshen day of the fifth month, sadly, news arrived that Wang Hong, the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, Recorder of the Imperial Secretariat, General of Wei, and Governor of Yangzhou, died. On the Jiaxu day of the sixth month, Shen Xuan was appointed as Governor of Qingzhou. The court also carved out a portion from Qingzhou and established Ji Province. On the Wuyin day, Prince Yikang of Pengcheng resigned as Minister of Public Works and was appointed as Governor of Yangzhou. On the Jimao day, Cui Yi was appointed as Governor of Ji Province. On the Rengwu day, Murong Yan of the Tuyuhun was granted the title of General Who Pacifies the East, Shi Qian as General Who Pacifies the North, and Hui Fa as General Who Guards the Army. On the Guiwei day, the Emperor issued a decree saying, "The regions of Yizhou, Liangzhou, Jiaozhou, and Guangzhou are distant from the capital, with complex situations; there may be management discrepancies, leading to potential issues. Therefore, special envoys should be sent to inspect and see what difficulties the common people are facing." Afterwards, the court established the positions of General of Archery and General of Crossbows.
On the Yiwei day, Murong Gui of the Tuyuhun was promoted to Grand General of the West, also held the position of Governor of West Qin and Hezhou, and was granted the title of King of Longxi. Yang Nandang, a Di tribal leader and Governor of North Qin, was also promoted to General of the West. On the Renyin day, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia was promoted to General of the North, with the title of Director of Households with Equal Rank, and also appointed as Governor of South Yanzhou; Prince Yiqing of Linchuan was appointed as General Who Pacifies the West and Governor of Jingzhou; Prince Yixuan of Jingling was appointed as Chief of the Imperial Secretariat and General of the Central Guard; and Prince Yiji of Hengyang was appointed as Governor of South Xuzhou.
On the seventh day of the seventh month in the year of Wuchen (戊辰), Wang Zhongde was appointed General of the Northern Frontier and Governor of Xuzhou. On the day of Gengwu, Yin Jingren was appointed Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, and Liu Zhan replaced Yin Jingren as General Commander. On the day of Renshen, envoys from Henan Guo and Hexi Wang presented various treasures as tribute. In the ninth month, a bandit named Zhao Guang emerged in Yizhou, causing chaos everywhere and seizing several counties, but he was eventually brought under control by the provincial military. On the day of Renzi in the eleventh month, Zhen Fachong was appointed Governor of Yizhou. On the day of Guichou, Song Kang County was founded in Guangzhou. On the day of Jiaxu in the twelfth month, Li Xiuzhi was appointed Governor of Jiaozhou. On the day of Gengyin, the Emperor named his fifth son Prince of Luling, and Lang, the son of Prince Yigong of Jiangxia, was appointed Prince of Nanfeng County. It is said that on the first day of the first month of a certain year, which was a Jiayin day, Prince Yixuan of Jingling was renamed Prince of Nanqiao. At the same time, General of the Northern Frontier and Governor of Xuzhou, Wang Zhongde, was additionally appointed Governor of Yanzhou; the Administrator of Huainan, Duan Hong, was appointed Governor of Qingzhou. On the day of Jiwu, the court granted a general amnesty to elderly widows and individuals suffering from six serious illnesses who were unable to take care of themselves, providing each with five hu of grain. In addition, the General and Governor of Yuzhou, Prince Yixin of Changsha, was promoted to General of the Garrison.
On the fifth day of the fourth month in the year Wuxu, Duan Hong, Qingzhou's governor, also took on the position of governor of Jizhou. Xiao Sihua, who had previously been granted the title of Marquis of Yangxian County, was appointed governor of Liangzhou and Nanqinzhou. In the fifth month, envoys from the Linyi Kingdom came to offer various exotic treasures. On the day of the sixth month Yihai, Wei Lang, the former governor of Qingzhou, was transferred to governor of Guangzhou. At the same time, envoys from the Helodan Kingdom from Shapo Zhou also came to offer tribute. On the day of the seventh month of Wuxu, the court granted amnesty to the provinces of Yizhou, Liangzhou, and Qinzhou. Two counties, Songning and Songxing, were established in Yizhou. On the day of the eighth month of Dingchou, Taiyuan County was established in Qingzhou. On the day of Xinsi, Dao Yanzhi, the General of the Guard, passed away. In the eleventh month, Nandang from Diyang led troops to raid the Hanchuan area. On the day of Dingwei, Zhen Fahud, the governor of Liangzhou, abandoned the city and fled, allowing Nandang to occupy Liangzhou.
In the second year of the first month, a fugitive called Ma Daxuan, along with several hundred accomplices, rebelled in the Taishan area, but was quickly put down by local officials and troops. On the day of the second month of Guiyou, Li Dan, the Prefect of Jiaozhi, was appointed governor of Jiaozhou. In the fourth month, Xiao Sihua, the governor of Liangzhou and Nanqinzhou, defeated Nandang of Diyang, and the conflict in Liangzhou was also resolved. On the day of the fifth month of Dingmao, the court granted amnesty to the region north of Jiange in Liangzhou and Nanqinzhou. On the day of Wuyin, Maoqian Dajuqu was appointed as the Grand General of the West and the governor of Liangzhou. In that month, the capital also suffered a major flood. On the day of the sixth month of Dingwei, the court disbanded Weijun. That year, envoys from the Linyi Kingdom, Funan, and Helodan all came to pay tribute.
On the eighth day of the first month in 434 AD, the emperor decreed a general amnesty. On the sixteenth day of the first month, the emperor personally went to the southern outskirts to offer sacrifices. On the twentieth day of the first month, Feng Hong was appointed the ruler of Yan. On the second day of the fourth month, Minister of Works Yin Jingren was promoted to Central Guardian. On the same day, the emperor issued a decree saying, "The stability of the Zhou Dynasty and the prosperity of the Han Dynasty both rely on the selection of talented individuals. I have always been eager to find talented individuals, and I find this regrettable, as those truly talented people are rarely given important positions. Many talented individuals are overlooked among the common people, and many positions remain unfilled in the court, which weighs heavily on my conscience. Therefore, you are encouraged to recommend any talented individuals you know, as Confucius said 'to select talents'; this has long been the tradition of appointing officials. Now, you can recommend talents from within and outside the court, and I will assess their abilities according to the rules." That night, an earthquake occurred in the capital city.
In June, regions such as Danyang, Huainan, Wuxing, and Yixing suffered from floods, with the streets of the capital flooded, forcing people to travel by boat. On the sixth day of June, the emperor ordered millions of shǐ of grain from the provinces of Xuzhou, Yuzhou, Yanzhou, and Kuaiji and Xuancheng counties to be distributed as relief to the people of five counties affected by the disaster. That month, the emperor also imposed a ban on alcohol. In the same month, envoys from the Kingdom of Lion paid tribute. On the eighth day of July, envoys from the Shaposhada Kingdom and the Funan Kingdom also presented tributes. On the ninth day of August, South Jinshou, South Xinba, and North Baxi counties were established in Yizhou. On the twelfth day of August, taxes were waived for those in disaster-stricken areas who owed them. In September, the bandit Zhang Xun wreaked havoc in Shu County. In November, Gou Daofu was appointed governor of Jiaozhou.
On the 10th day of the 1st month in 435 AD, the emperor fell ill and did not attend court. On the 6th day of the 3rd month, the Minister of Works and Jiangzhou Governor, Tan Daoji, was guilty of a crime and was executed. On the 7th day of the 3rd month, the emperor issued a general amnesty across the realm and appointed Prince Yixuan of Nanqiao as General of the South and Governor of Jiangzhou. On the 5th day of the 5th month, General of the North and Governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou, Wang Zhongde, was promoted to Grand General of the North. On the 7th day of the 5th month, Wang Fangpai was appointed Governor of Yanzhou. In the 6th month, envoys from the Kingdom of Goguryeo and the King of Wudu presented tribute. On the 6th day of the 7th month, the Empress Dowager of Lingling passed away and was posthumously granted the title of Empress Jin, with a burial conducted according to empressial rites. On the 2nd day of the 8th month, Yin Jingren was appointed as Protector-General. On the 10th day of the 9th month, the second prince, Prince Xun, was established as Prince of Shixing, and the third prince, Prince Jun, was established as Prince of Wuling.
In the 1st month of the 14th year, the emperor personally went to the southern suburbs to offer sacrifices, and promoted all civil and military officials by one rank; elderly widows and those who were severely ill or unable to care for themselves were each granted five bushels of grain. On a certain day in the 2nd month, Liu Daozhen was appointed as Governor of Liangzhou and Nanqinzhou. On a certain day in the 4th month, Zhou Jizhi was appointed as Governor of Yizhou. On a certain day in the 8th month, Xu Senzhi was appointed as Governor of Jiaozhou. At the end of the year, on a certain day in the 12th month, the celebrations were called off because of the snowfall. Envoys from the Kingdom of Henan, the King of Hexi, and the Kingdom of Heluo sent gifts.
On a certain day in the second month of the fifteenth year of the reign, Tuoba Yuhun Murong Yan was appointed as General of the West, concurrently serving as the Governor of Qinzhou and Hezhou. On a certain day in the fourth month, the King of Yan sent gifts. Then, Lady Yinshi was named Crown Princess, and the Emperor rewarded officials below the rank of nobility, with varying degrees of rewards. On the same day of that month, the King of Wo was appointed as General of Pacification. On a certain day in the fifth month, Yin Mu, a Senior Grandee and Right Minister of Rites, died. On the same day of that month, Wang Zhongde, General of the North and Governor of Xuzhou, also died. On another day, Liu Zunkao was appointed as Governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou. On a certain day in the seventh month, there was an earthquake. On the same day of that month, Xu Xun was appointed as Governor of Ningzhou. On a certain day in the eighth month, Zhao Bofu was appointed as Governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou. On the same day of that month, Lu Hui was appointed as Governor of Guangzhou. On another day, Wang Fangpai was appointed as Governor of Qingzhou and Jizhou. That year, envoys from Wudu, Henan, Goryeo, Wo, Funan, and Linyi all brought gifts.
On the first few days of the first month, the Emperor held a military parade in the Northern Suburbs, which was quite a sight to behold!
On the day of Gengyin, Prince Yikang of Pengcheng was promoted to the position of Grand General while continuing to serve as Minister of State, with no change in other positions. Prince Yigong of Jiangxia was also promoted, from General Who Conquers the North to Minister of State, with his position as Governor remaining the same. In addition, Wang Jinghong was granted the honorary title of Specially Advanced Palace Attendant, which was quite impressive. On the day of Guisi, the court divided the territory of Jingzhou and established a new Xiangzhou.
On the day of Jihai in the second month, Prince Yiji of Hengyang was appointed as General of the West and Governor of Jingzhou. On the day of Dingwei, Prince Jun of Shixing was appointed as Governor of Xiangzhou. On the day of Guihai, the court divided Baixi, Zitong, Nandangqu, and Nanhanzhong of Liangzhou, as well as Nan'an and Huaining of Nanqinzhou, transferring them to the jurisdiction of Yizhou. At the same time, a new Balingzhou was established by separating it from Changsha and Jiangxia Commanderies, falling under Xiangzhou's jurisdiction.
In April, Prince Yixuan of Nanqiao was appointed as the General of the Northern Campaign and the Administrator of Nanxu Province; Prince Yiqing of Linqian was appointed as the General of the Guard and the Administrator of Jiangzhou. In June, Murong Yan of Tuyuhun in Longxi was appointed as the King of Henan. In July, Shi Yin and Fan Nuo of Tuyuhun were respectively appointed as the General Who Pacifies the West and the General Who Pacifies the Army. In August, the Emperor designated his fourth son as the King of Nanping. In the intercalary month, King Yixin of Changsha passed away; he had been the General Who Guards the Army and the Administrator of Yuzhou during his lifetime. In September, the court divided the Huainan region from Yuzhou and established Nanyuzhou. In October, Liu Zunkao was appointed as the Administrator of Yuzhou. In November, King Jun of Shixing was transferred as the Administrator of Nanyuzhou, and King Jun of Wuling took over as the Administrator of Xiangzhou. In December, the Crown Prince held his coming-of-age ceremony, and the Emperor proclaimed a general amnesty, celebrating across the realm! That year, envoys from Wudu, Henan, Linyi, and Goguryeo all came to pay tribute and brought a wealth of valuable tributes.
In a certain year (specific year needs to be supplemented according to historical records), on the first day of the fourth month of summer, which fell on the day of Wuyu, a solar eclipse occurred. On the tenth day of the fifth month, General Liu Zhan's mother passed away, prompting him to resign and return home to mourn. By the eighth day of the seventh month in autumn, the court appointed Du Ji as the governor of Qingzhou. On the tenth day of the seventh month, Empress Yuan passed away. In August, the provinces of Xuzhou, Yanzhou, Qingzhou, and Jizhou all faced severe flooding. On the sixth day of August, the court dispatched officials to assess the disaster and provide relief to those affected. On the tenth day of September, Empress Yuan was laid to rest in Changning Tomb. On the sixth day of October in winter, the former governor of Danyang, Liu Zhan, was implicated in a crime, and all those involved were executed. The court declared a general amnesty, promoting both civil and military officials by one rank. Prince Yikang of Pengcheng, who had previously served as Grand General, Minister of Works, Recorder of Imperial Documents, and Governor of Yangzhou, was transferred to the governorship of Jiangzhou while retaining his title as Grand General. Prince Yigong of Jiangxia, who had previously held the positions of Minister of Works and Governor of South Yanzhou, was promoted to Minister of Works and took over the responsibilities of the Imperial Secretariat. On the eighth day of October, Prince Yiqing of Linchuan continued in his role as Guard General while also serving as Governor of South Yanzhou; Yin Jingren remained as Supervisor of the Imperial Secretariat while also serving as Protector General and Governor of Yangzhou. On the twenty-eighth day of November, Liu Yirong was appointed as the leading general, and Xu Zhanzhi was appointed as the Central Protector General.
On November 29th, the emperor issued a decree stating: "The land, food, and seeds previously distributed to the people of Yangzhou and Southern Yuzhou, as well as the rent and food that have been exempted in Yanzhou, Yuzhou (both Yuzhou), Qingzhou, and Xuzhou in recent years, those that should have been collected will now be reduced by half. If there are still outstanding amounts after the reduction, they will be completely waived. All debts in arrears must be considered for reduction. The taxes and market inspections in various prefectures are often too heavy and harsh; the benefits of mountains and rivers are often prohibited; corvée labor and conscription even extend to children and the weak. These issues undermine the governance of the country and threaten the people. From now on, all matters must be carried out in accordance with the law, and leniency must be exercised. If there are any inconveniences, they can be reported separately based on specific circumstances, without compromising the original intention of being compassionate towards the people. Relevant departments must clearly convey this and comply with my intentions." On November 31st, the Minister of the Left and Governor of Yangzhou, Yin Jingren, passed away. On December 29th, Wang Qiu was appointed as the Minister of the Left. On December 30th, Prince Xian of Shixing was appointed as the Governor of Yangzhou, Prince Jun of Wuling was appointed as the Governor of Southern Yuzhou, and Prince Shuo of Nanping was appointed as the Governor of Xiangzhou. That year, the kings of Wudu, Henan, and the Kingdom of Baekje all sent envoys to present tribute items. In the spring of the year 442 AD, on the second day of February, Yu Deng was appointed as the Governor of Jiangzhou. In the summer, on the seventh day of May, Prince Liu Yiqing of Linchuan and Prince Liu Yixuan of Nanqiao were each appointed as Guard General and Governor of Southern Yanzhou and General Conquering the North and Governor of Southern Xuzhou, respectively, both concurrently holding the title of Yitong Sanqi; their positions were quite significant! On the thirteenth day of May, the court established Songxi County in Jiaozhou. That month, the Mian River flooded many areas. On the sixth day of June, the emperor sent officials to assess the situation and provide aid to those affected by the disaster. On the ninth day of June, General Liu Yirong passed away.
On the eighth day of the seventh lunar month, General-in-Chief Zhao Bofu was appointed, having previously served as the governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou. On the tenth day of the tenth month in winter, Zang Zhi succeeded Zhao Bofu and became the governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou; he was previously the governor of Badong County and Jianping County. On the fourteenth day of October, the court abolished the counties of Nanyan, Puyang, and Nanguangping under South Xuzhou jurisdiction. On the fifth day of November, the Minister of Personnel Wang Qiu passed away. On the sixth day of November, Meng Yi took over as the Minister of Personnel.
This year was not peaceful; the Di and Yang tribes attacked the Hanchuan region once again. On the nineteenth day of December, the court sent General Longxiang Pei Fangming and the governors of Liangzhou and Qinzhou, Liu Zhendao, to quell the uprising. In the same month, the Prefect of Jinning, Gong Cuansong, staged a rebellion but was quickly subdued by the Ningzhou governor Xu Xun. This year, the countries of Sute, Goryeo, Sumila, and Linyi all sent envoys to offer tribute, bringing many rare treasures.
On the Yisi day of the first month in the nineteenth year of the era, the Emperor issued a decree saying, "Establishing a solid foundation is essential; this reflects the profound teachings of the sages. Only with a solid foundation can success be achieved, and emphasizing learning is the most important. Therefore, we issue this decree to promote the three virtues, emphasize the four arts, and to guide behavior according to established laws. In governing a flourishing nation, one must adhere to these principles. Since I ascended the throne, I have consistently advocated for the profound teachings, wanting to influence all the people and unify various customs. I had already issued decrees to vigorously establish schools, but due to repeated wars, they were not built in time. I have always admired the achievements of the previous emperor and wanted to further promote them. Now that the border is stable and all ethnic groups have submitted to the court, broadening education for our youth is of utmost importance. Thus, we can adhere to this precedent and promote the great achievements of the previous emperor."
On the day of Jiaxu in the fourth month of spring, the Emperor began to hold sacrifices and ordered a general amnesty for the world after recovering from a long illness. In the fifth month of Gengyin, the Governor of Liangzhou and Qinzhou, Liu Zhendao, and the General Longxiang, Pei Fangming, defeated the Di and Yang rebellious forces, restoring peace to the Chouchi region. During the intercalary month, there was rain in the capital; on the day of Dingsi, the Emperor sent envoys to tour various places for disaster relief. In the sixth month of Renwu, Dajuqu Wuhui was appointed Grand General of the Western Expedition and Governor of Liangzhou. In the seventh month, Liu Zhendao was appointed Governor of Yongzhou, and Pei Fangming was appointed Governor of Liangzhou and Southern Qinzhou. At the end of the month of Jiaxu, a solar eclipse occurred. In the tenth month of Jiashen, the Rui Rui state sent envoys to pay tribute. On the day of Jihai, Jinning Prefect Zhou Wansui was appointed as the Governor of Ningzhou. In the twelfth month of Bingshen, the Emperor issued a decree stating, "Students have just entered school, and their studies are just beginning. It has been almost a thousand years since the teachings of the sages were interrupted. I reflect on these matters, miss those individuals, and feel deeply moved. The descendants of Confucius should promptly discuss the inheritance of the title. A temple should be specially built at the site of our ancestors' temple, officials for sacrifices should be appointed according to the old customs, and sacrifices should be conducted in spring, autumn, winter, and summer. Confucius' old residence in Queli has suffered from wars, and the school has been destroyed. The Lu County was ordered to repair the school buildings and enroll students. In ancient times, the wise and virtuous had their tombs protected, especially considering the enduring legacy of Nifu (Confucius) through the generations; yet his tomb has been neglected, overgrown with thorns, and left untended. Taxes near the tomb should be exempted for a few households, who should be responsible for maintaining the tomb." Five households, including Kong Jing, residing near Confucius' tomb in Lu County, were exempted from taxes and given the responsibility of maintaining the tomb, and they planted six hundred pine and cypress trees. That year, the Po Huang state sent envoys to pay tribute.
In the twentieth year of the first month, Wanchun Gate and Qianqiu Gate were newly opened on both sides of Taicheng, which was a big deal! In early February, Yu Dengzhi was promoted to be the Central Protector, and shortly after, Prince Lu Ling Shao succeeded him as the governor of Jiangzhou. Oh, the Chouchi region was seized by the Suolu. In a few days, the emperor held a military review at Baixia, and the scene must have been spectacular. One day in March, Prince Hengyang Yiji was promoted and received a salary increase, becoming the Grand General of the West and also the governor of Jingzhou. Shen Tan was also promoted, from the governor of Baxi and Zitong to directly the governors of Liangzhou and South Qinzhou; the speed of his promotion is truly enviable! In April, the emperor named his sixth son as the Prince of Guangling. Yu Dengzhi passed away in May. In July, Yang Wende was appointed as the General of the West and the governor of North Qinzhou, and was also granted the title of King of Wudu. In a few days, Xiao Sihua became the governor of Yongzhou. A few days later, the former governor of Yongzhou, Liu Zhendao, and the governors of Liangnan and South Qin, Pei Fangming, were imprisoned and ultimately died as a result of their crimes. In August, Tao Minzu was appointed governor of Guangzhou. In December, at the end of the year, Tan Hezhi was appointed as the governor of Jiaozhou.
The emperor also issued a decree, the content of which was: "The country is based on the people, and the people rely on food. Therefore, if one man neglects the fields, hunger will ensue; when the granaries are full, social norms will improve." In plain terms, this decree means that the country should prioritize the common people, and the most crucial thing for the people is to have enough to eat. If one person neglects the fields, it will lead to many people going hungry; only when the granaries are full will society prosper. The emperor continued, saying that in recent years, the people have been struggling financially, with no reserves at home, heavy taxes, and everyone suffering. If there is a bad harvest year, then every household will struggle to put food on the table. This all stems from poor governance, as well as insufficient farmland and low land resource utilization. Local officials have not done a good job of guiding, and the common people have not worked hard enough. The emperor said that this issue must be properly addressed. Although many orders have been issued, the results are not good. We cannot just wait for crops to grow on their own! Therefore, we must effectively carry out existing policies, urge everyone to work hard in farming, and put the idle to work. Reward those who deserve it and punish those who deserve it. The emperor also mentioned that ancient emperors personally tilled the fields to show their emphasis on agriculture. We should also learn from our predecessors, plan the land properly, and choose a good day to start farming. The emperor intended to lead a trip to the countryside for a sacrificial offering, hoping for divine protection so that the common people can all have enough food to eat. That year, envoys from the countries of Hexi, Goryeo, Baekje, and Wa all came to pay tribute. Unfortunately, various regions experienced continuous droughts and floods that year, resulting in poor harvests and widespread hunger throughout the population. The emperor had no choice but to open the granaries and distribute seeds.
In the first month of the year 447 AD, on the Ji Hai day, the court ordered a ban on brewing alcohol in the southern areas of Xuzhou, Yuzhou, and the western part of Zhejiang in Yangzhou. At the same time, the court announced a general amnesty, forgiving all debts that had been owed for the past nineteen years. In areas with poor harvests last year, the court would reduce taxes based on the actual circumstances. For particularly difficult areas, the court would send relief to those in need. Those wishing to farm but lacking seeds would be provided with loans and seeds by the court. Officials managing a thousand acres of fertile land received varying amounts of cloth as rewards. On the Wu Wu day, General Wei, King Yiqing of Linchuan, passed away. On the Xin You day, Liu Yizong was appointed governor of Nanyanzhou. On the second day of the second month, Zhao Bofu was appointed governor of Yuzhou. On the Ji Chou day, King Yigong of Jiangxia was promoted to Grand Commandant and concurrently appointed as Minister of Works. On the Geng Yin day, Shen Yanzhi was appointed as the Chief of Staff. On the Xin Mao day, the seventh prince was appointed as Prince Jianping. On the Jia Wu day, Prince Dan of Guangling was appointed governor of Nanyanzhou. In April, the people of Yanling in Jinling donated a thousand hu of grain for disaster relief. On the Ren Xu day in May, He Shangzhi was appointed as the Central Protector, and Liu Daoxi was appointed governor of Guangzhou. In June, it rained continuously. On the Ding Hai day, the emperor issued a decree stating: "The continuous rainfall has caused flooding, and the people's savings are already scarce, which makes it easy for them to fall into poverty. All county officials and departments must carefully take stock of supplies, distribute firewood and rice, and ensure that everyone receives their fair share."
On the 7th of July in the Ding You year, Wang Jun of Shixing was appointed as the General of Military Affairs, while Wang Zan of Wuling was appointed as the Middle Army General. On the day of Yi Si, the Emperor issued a decree stating, "In recent years, there have been poor harvests and frequent natural disasters, which is partly due to improper farming methods. Effective immediately, all counties in Nanxuzhou, Yanzhou, Yuzhou, Yangzhou, and the western region of Zhejiang must encourage the people to cultivate wheat to address the food shortage. The existing wheat seeds in Pengcheng and Xiapi counties should be transported as soon as possible, with the governor overseeing the distribution of loans. Although Xuzhou and Yuzhou have many paddy fields, the locals primarily grow dryland crops. They should be ordered to repair the old irrigation facilities in both towns, take the lead in building water conservancy projects, reclaim wasteland, and strive for a good harvest next year. All prefectures must make efforts to develop agricultural production, encourage everyone to grow food, raise silkworms, and plant hemp, each doing their part instead of simply waiting for directives from above." On the 8th of August in the Wu Chen year, Wang Yiji of Hengyang was appointed as the Grand General of the Northern Expedition, the Palace Attendant of the Three Excellencies, and the Governor of South Yanzhou; Wang Yixuan of Nan Qiao was appointed as the General of Chariots and Cavalry and the Governor of Jingzhou. Wang Dan of Guangling was appointed as the Governor of Nan Xuzhou. On the 1st of September in the Jia Chen year, Juqu Anzhou was appointed as the General of the Western Expedition and the Governor of Liangzhou, and was granted the title of King of Hexi. On the 10th of October in the Ji Mao year, Xu Qiong was appointed as the Governor of Yanzhou, and Shen Tian was appointed as the Governor of Jizhou. On the 1st of the 1st month in the year 443 AD, which fell on a Xin Mao day, the court decided to implement the "Yuanjia New Calendar" formulated by He Chengtian. Then, on the 9th of the 1st month, Wang Zan was reassigned as the Governor of Yongzhou Province, while Wang Shuo replaced Wang Zan as the Governor of South Yuzhou. On the 8th of the 2nd month, Wang Senglang was appointed as the Governor of Xiangzhou. On the 13th of the 1st month, the Emperor established his eighth son as the Prince of Donghai, and his ninth son as the Prince of Yiyang. By the 8th of the 6th month, Wang Shuo, who was previously the Governor of South Yuzhou, was promoted to the Governor of Yuzhou, advancing another rank in his official position.
On the sixth day of the seventh month (Jiwei day), Meng Yi was promoted to the position of Left Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, while He Shangzhi became the Right Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites. Wuling Wang, who is now the Governor of Yongzhou, led troops to fight against the local tribes in the Mian River basin and relocated over 14,000 local tribal civilians to the capital. On the eighteenth day of the seventh month (Yiyou day), the official position of Prince Yiji of Hengyang was reassigned from General Who Conquers the North and Governor of South Yanzhou to Governor of Xuzhou. On the sixth day of the ninth month (Jiwei day), the court announced that the ban on alcohol was lifted, allowing everyone to drink freely.
In October, the court began to reclaim the abandoned fertile lands in the Lake Shu area. On the twenty-seventh day of the twelfth month (Yiwei day), a significant event took place: the Crown Prince's Attendant, Fan Ye, rebelled, and he was executed along with his accomplices. On the twenty-ninth day of the twelfth month (Dingyou day), the Grand General and Prince of Pengcheng, Yi Kang, was dismissed from his position and reduced to commoner status. On the thirty-first day of the twelfth month (Gengxu day), Zhao Bofu, who previously served as the Governor of Yuzhou, was appointed as the General of the Guards.
In the year 446 AD (23rd year of Emperor Yuanjia of Song Xiaowu), on the fourteenth day of the first month, Lu Hui was appointed as the Governor of Yizhou. On the seventeenth day, the Left Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites, Meng Yi, resigned. The court relocated refugees from Hanchuan to areas near Mianyang.
On the ninth day of the second month, Liu Yibin was appointed as the Governor of South Yanzhou. In the third month, the Sogdian invaders invaded Yanzhou, Yuzhou, Qingzhou, and Jizhou, but Governor Shen Tian successfully repelled them. On the fourteenth day of the fourth month, the court proclaimed a general amnesty. On the first day of the sixth month, a solar eclipse occurred. Tan Hezhi, the Governor of Jiaozhou, launched an attack and defeated the kingdom of Linyi.
On the twenty-second day of the seventh month, Du Tan was appointed as the Governor of Qingzhou. On the ninth day of the eighth month, bandits from Jieyang attacked Jian'an County and set fire to the county office. On the second day of the ninth month, the Emperor visited the Imperial College to inspect and personally examine the students; a total of fifty-nine students were examined.
On the twenty-seventh day of October, the emperor issued a decree stating: "The schools have been established for many years, and the students have excelled in their studies. Recently, I personally conducted an examination and saw that you are all talented individuals. It reminds me of the rivers Zhu and Si, the hometown of Confucius. The students' responses offer much to learn from. The teachers will also be rewarded." Afterwards, the emperor rewarded everyone with varying amounts of silk.
On the twenty-second day of December, Xiao Jingxian was appointed as the governor of Jiaozhou. That year saw a bountiful harvest across the land. The court also built the Northern Dyke, completed Xuanwu Lake, and constructed Jingyang Mountain in the Hualin Garden.
In the spring of the year 224, on the first day of the first month, the court issued a general amnesty throughout the country, promoting civil and military officials by one rank. Those who were imprisoned or in debt had their penalties or debts reduced according to their circumstances. Each elderly widower and person unable to care for themselves due to six serious illnesses was granted five bushels of grain. This year's land tax was halved for the counties of Jiankang and Moling.
On the third day of the third month, the General of the Guard Zhao Bofu was reassigned. On the first day of the fifth month, the Governor of Qingzhou, Du Tan, was promoted to the Governor of Jizhou. In June, an epidemic broke out in the capital. On the tenth day of the tenth month, the court ordered all counties, military camps, and government offices to strictly implement epidemic prevention measures and distribute medicine. Due to the soaring prices that month, the court minted new "big coins," with each big coin worth the equivalent of two old coins.
On the first day of the seventh month, the court distributed the gold and silver treasures seized from Linyi according to the size of their contributions. On the fifth day of the eighth month, the General of the Northern Expedition and Xuzhou Governor, Prince Yiji of Hengyang, passed away. On the ninth day of the ninth month, Liu Yibin was appointed as the Governor of Xuzhou. On the tenth day of the tenth month, Shen Yanzhi was appointed as the General of the Army. On the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the Prince's Minister Xu Zhanzhi was appointed as the Governor of Nanyanzhou.
On Renwu Day in October, Hu Dan from Yuzhang led a rebellion and killed Governor Huan Longzhi. Tan He, who had formerly served as the governor of Jiaozhou, passed through Yuzhang on his way south and incidentally quelled the rebellion. On Renchen Day, Jianping Wang Hong was appointed as the Central Guardian. On Jiayin Day in November, the tenth prince, Hun, was appointed as the King of Ruyin.
In the first few days of January in the year 550 AD, the emperor ordered, "Recently, there have been several days of ice and snow, and the prices of firewood and grain have skyrocketed. Many impoverished families can barely afford a meal. Investigate the two counties near the capital and government departments, and distribute firewood and rice relief to them."
On a day in February, the emperor issued another order, "Being mindful of potential dangers even in times of peace is a universal principle of governing the country and safeguarding the state. Military training and preparedness are fundamental strategies for the nation's long-term stability. Therefore, military discipline must be enforced, and both officers and soldiers must understand the rules. Although military training has been intensified recently, the orders have not been clear enough. Now that Xuanwu Field is ready, large-scale military drills are ready to commence immediately. Take advantage of this opportunity to practice military exercises during the upcoming hunting event and explain military affairs."
On a day in the intercalary month, a large-scale search was conducted at Xuanwu Field. On a day in March, the emperor led a team to participate in a hunting expedition. On a day in April, Changhe Gate and Guangmo Gate were constructed, the former Guangmo Gate was renamed Chengming Gate, and Yang Gate was renamed Jinyang Gate. On the same day, Prince Wuling was appointed as the General of Anbei and the governor of Xuzhou. On another day, Xiao Sihua was appointed as the governor of Yongzhou. On a day in May, the practice of exchanging large coins for two smaller ones was abolished. On a day in June, Prince Sima Yuan Yu of Lingling died. On the same day, Prince Wuling was also appointed as the governor of Yanzhou. On another day, Prince Yixuan of Nanqiao was promoted to Minister of Works. On a day in July, Wang Jinghong died. On a day in August, Liu Xiuzhi was appointed as the governor of both Liangzhou and Nanshuzhou. On the same day, the eleventh prince Yu was named the King of Huaiyang. On a day in September, He Shangzhi was promoted to Left Deputy Minister of Personnel, Shen Yanzhi was reassigned, and Liu Zunkao took over as the Leading General.
In January of the year 426 AD, the emperor personally went to the southern outskirts to offer sacrifices. In February, the emperor traveled by carriage to Dan Tu to pay respects at the tomb of the capital's ancestors. In March, the emperor issued a decree saying, "I have been away from the capital for over twenty years. Although not far, I have never had the opportunity to come back and visit. Now that the world is peaceful and the crops are abundant, I can finally return to honor my ancestors' graves, express my longing, host a feast for the elders of my hometown, and reminisce about the past. My feelings for my hometown are deeper than those of ordinary people, and my feelings for Pei County are deeper than those of ordinary people for their hometown; I am overwhelmed with emotion. In order to show my kindness and extend my kindness to the people, I hereby decree a general amnesty throughout the land, exempting half of the taxes for the immigrants in Dan Tu County this year. All the counties I have passed through will have half of their land rent waived. The two thousand officials who have diligently served the country will also be rewarded. The families of the generals and soldiers who have defended the city walls on three occasions, as well as those who have sacrificed in battle, and the elderly and infirm, should all receive special care. I will send envoys to visit people in various regions, learn about their hardships, and for the widows, orphans, and those incapacitated by illness, each will be given five measures of grain." Then, the emperor sent envoys to pay respects at the tomb of He Wuji, the Jin Dynasty's Minister of Works.
Afterwards, the emperor ordered the reinstatement of the administrative divisions of the Nanbei Pei and Xiapi counties. The emperor issued a decree saying, "Jingkou has been considered a place of good fortune since ancient times and has been famous in recent times. It is located in a prosperous area, with convenient transportation that controls key routes along the Huai River and the sea. The city is grand and majestic, the people are warm and honest, and its geographical location is exceptional. It is truly a famous city. It once established the foundation of the royal family and made the royal family prosperous. In recent years, due to wars, the people here have been displaced, and the houses have been dilapidated, not what it once was. This is the royal family's ancestral home, holding significant importance, and it should be restored to its former glory. We can recruit thousands of households from other states who are willing to relocate here, land and housing will be allocated to them, and they will be exempt from taxes." In May, the emperor issued another decree, saying, "I was born in this city. When Lu Xun rebelled, this place also suffered great damage. The late emperor regarded this place as the foundation, sharing weal and woe with the people here. I grew up here and experienced the hardships this place endured. I have deep feelings for this place, and I remember everything here in good times and bad. Time flies; over thirty years have flown by in the blink of an eye. The people from those days are now either old or have passed away. Reflecting on this fills me with deep emotion. The officials, military officers, and people who are still alive should be identified and their names documented. For those who have passed away, if their descendants are still around, they should receive generous rewards."
The emperor returned to the capital from Dantu in early June. The states of Po Huang and Po Da sent envoys to pay tribute. In July, the emperor appointed Prince Shao of Luling as the Governor of Nanxu, and Prince Dan of Guangling as the Governor of Yongzhou. In August, the emperor appointed General Wang Jun of Shixing from Yangzhou as General of the North and Governor of both Yuzhou and Xuzhou, while Prince Shao of Luling was appointed as Governor of Yangzhou. In October, Prince Dan of Guangling was renamed as Prince of Suijun.
On the eighth day of the first month of 454 AD, the court ordered that Jiaozhou and Ningzhou temporarily adopt the administrative structure of the counties, and officials' salaries would be distributed according to the court's regulations. On the twenty-eighth day of the same month, Baekje sent envoys to offer various special products. On the eighth day of the second month, Prince Shuo of Nanping was promoted to General of Pingxi and concurrently appointed as Governor of Yuzhou. On the fourteenth day of the second month, the Suolu, a northern ethnic group, invaded Runan and other counties. The magistrates of Chenjun and Nandun in Runan County, Zheng Kun, and Guo Daoyin in Ruyang County and Yingchuan County abandoned their posts and fled. The Suolu attacked Xuanhu City, where Chen Xian, acting as the representative of Runan County, mounted a defense. Due to the needs of the war, the court ordered all officials to reduce their salaries by one-third.
On the fourth day of the third month, Zhuge Chan, the Governor of Huainan, requested salary cuts, along with all the officials of the court. Subsequently, the prefects and magistrates from different states and counties followed suit with salary cuts. On the seventh day of the third month, the court abolished the National University. On the thirteenth day of the third month, the newly appointed Minister of Personnel, Xiao Sihua, was named General of the Guard. On the ninth day of the fourth month, Prince Zan of Wuling, the General of Peace in the North and Inspector of Xuzhou and Yanzhou, was demoted to General of the Garrison. On the fourth day of the sixth month, Xiao Bin, the Palace Attendant, was appointed Inspector of Qingzhou and Jizhou. On the seventh day of the seventh month, the court sent General Wang Xuanmo of Ning Shuo on a northern expedition. The Grand Commandant, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia, arrived in Pengcheng to command the various armies. On the twentieth day of the seventh month, the Sulu forces surrendered the garrison at Qiaoyi, abandoned the city, and fled.
On the twenty-ninth day of the leap month, Wang Xuanmo attacked Huatai but was unable to capture it and was instead defeated by the Sulu, retreating back to Qiaoyi. On the sixth day of the twelfth month, the Yongzhou Inspector, following Wang Dan's orders, sent troops to attack Hongnong City and captured it. On the tenth day of the twelfth month, they also took Guan City. On the fifth day of the eleventh month, the Sulu attacked and captured Zoushan, where Cui Xie, the Prefect of Lu and Yangping Counties, was killed in action. On the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the forces dispatched by Wang Dan also took Shancheng. On the eighteenth day of the eleventh month, the General of the Left Army, Liu Kangzu, fought against the Sulu at Wushu in Shouyangwei and was killed in action. On the twenty-second day of the eleventh month, the court issued a general amnesty. On the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, martial law was strictly enforced both inside and outside the court. On the twentieth day of the twelfth month, the Rongcong Attendant, Hu Chongzhi, the Prince of Jinyu, Zang Chengzhi, and the General of Jiawei, Mao Xizuo, fought against the Sulu at Xuyi and were killed in action. On the twenty-fifth day of the twelfth month, the Sulu pseudo-master led a large army to reach Guabu. On the twenty-seventh day of the twelfth month, martial law was strictly enforced both inside and outside the court once again.
On the first day of the first month of the year 628 AD, with the enemy closing in, the court couldn't hold a regular meeting. The following day, the enemy forces pulled back from Guabu. They then went on to attack Xuyi City. During this month, General Wang Xuanmo of Ning Shuo retreated from Qiaoyi to Jinan.
On the 3rd day of the 2nd month, the enemy retreated from Xuyi. On the 9th day of the 2nd month, the emperor issued a decree that read: "The enemy forces are strong, invading several provinces, keeping me awake with worry day and night. Now that the enemy has been defeated and scattered, the affected people need timely reassurance and relief. All affected provinces should allow their people to return home to rebuild their homes, bury the dead, and provide aid to the hungry. Spring plowing is about to begin; we must encourage the people to start farming, and they should be given sufficient loans and assistance. Those who fled to the Jianghuai region should be allowed to settle there without having to pay taxes."
On the 12th day of the 2nd month, the Grand Commandant and Minister of State, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia, was demoted to General of Chariots and Cavalry and given the title of Household Counsellor. On the 19th day of the 2nd month, General of the Guard and Inspector of Xuzhou and Yanzhou, Prince Wuling, was demoted to General of the North Central Army. On the 20th day of the 2nd month, the emperor inspected Guabu and lifted martial law that same day. On the 5th day of the 3rd month, the emperor returned to the palace. On the 12th day of the 3rd month, General of the North, Prince Jin of Shixing, resigned from his position as Inspector of Nanyanzhou. On the 18th day of the 3rd month, Deputy State General Zang Zhi was appointed as Inspector of Yongzhou. On the 22nd day of the 3rd month, Prince Wuling was appointed as Inspector of Nanyanzhou. On the 27th day of the 3rd month, General of Army Protection, Xiao Sihua, was appointed as General of Army Pacification and Inspector of Xuzhou and Yanzhou.
On April 9th, the Bodao Kingdom sent envoys to pay tribute. The enemy's false general Lu Shuang and Lu Xiu surrendered to the imperial court. On April 14th, Lu Shuang was appointed as the governor of Sizhou. On May 5th, the fugitive Sima Shun declared himself King of Qi and occupied Liangzhou City. On May 7th, the Po Huang Kingdom sent envoys, and on May 10th, the King of Henan sent envoys as well. On May 12th, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia was appointed as the governor of South Yanzhou. On May 22nd, He Shangzhi was appointed as the Minister of Personnel, and Xu Zhanzhi was appointed as the Minister of State and concurrently serving as the General of the Guard. On May 26th, Wang Dan of Sui was appointed General of Annan and Governor of Guangzhou. On June 26th, Prince Wuling was appointed as the governor of Jiangzhou, and Liu Xingzu was appointed as the governor of Qingzhou and Jizhou.
On July 3rd, Wo King Wo Ji was promoted to Grand General of Andong. On August 8th, Liangzhou City fell, and Sima Shun was beheaded. On October 8th, Goryeo sent envoys to pay tribute. On November 20th, the court issued a general amnesty for the six provinces of Yanzhou, Xuzhou, Yuzhou, Qingzhou, and Jizhou. During that winter, the court relocated refugees from Pengcheng to Guabu and from Huaixi to Gushu, amounting to over ten thousand households.
On the fifteenth day of the first month in 458 AD, the emperor issued a decree: "After the wars in the six provinces, the people's homes remain unreconstructed, and now they are facing floods, droughts, and subsequent famine. Promptly notify all towns to increase relief efforts. Now is the busy farming season, so fully utilize the land's resources. If seeds are needed, distribute them based on current needs." On the twenty-seventh day of the second month, the enemy leader, Tuoba Tao, passed away. On the first day of the third month, the twelfth prince, Xiu Ren, was designated as the Prince of Jian'an. On the twenty-seventh day of the fourth month, the state of Hulodan sent envoys to pay tribute. Zhang Yong was appointed as the Prefect of Jizhou. On the first day of the fifth month, Xiangzhou and Jingzhou were dissolved, and the counties of Shixing, Linhe, and Shian were reassigned to Guangzhou. On the third day of the fifth month, the emperor issued a decree: "Those who commit evil will ultimately face their demise. Wars and rebellions are a constant, and ruthless enemies have always existed. Before they could even wield their weapons, they were already condemned by the heavens. Their descendants are killing each other, trusted aides are betraying their loyalty and morals. The impostor leaders in Guanzhong and Luoyang are covertly demonstrating their allegiance, and the refugees north of the Yellow River are earnestly seeking to serve. Now is the time to rescue the people and cleanse the corruption. Notify the Cavalry General and the Minister of Works, mobilize their respective forces to launch a dual assault from the east and west. Those who pledge their loyalty and contribute will be rewarded based on their merits." This month, the capital city experienced rainfall.
On June 27th, officials were dispatched to inspect various locations, distribute firewood and rice, and provide boats. General Xiao Sihua led the army on a northern expedition. Liu Yu was appointed governor of Yizhou. On July 21st, King Hun of Ruyin was renamed as King Wuchang, and King Yu of Huaiyang was renamed as King Xiangdong. On July 26th, the positions of Grand Minister of Agriculture, Prince's Attendant, and Court Supervisor were abolished. On August 22nd, Xiao Sihua attacked Qiaoao but was unsuccessful and had to withdraw his troops. On September 21st, General Tuyuhun Shiyin was appointed General of Anxi and governor of Qinzhou and Hezhou. On September 23rd, Xiao Sihua, the General of the Army and governor of Xuzhou and Yanzhou, was appointed governor of Jizhou, while retaining his position as governor of Yanzhou. On October 21st, Lu Shuang, the governor of Sizhou, attacked Hulao but was unsuccessful and had to withdraw his troops. On November 10th, Wang Shao, the governor of Yangzhou, passed away. On December 27th, Wang Yigong, the General of Cavalry and governor of Nanyanzhou, was appointed Grand General and governor of Nanxuzhou, retaining his previous duties.
In a certain year (Spring of the 30th year, Wuyin, i.e. February 10, 454 AD), the emperor appointed Wang Yixuan of Nanqiao as Minister of Personnel, General of the Central Army, and concurrently as governor of Yangzhou. At the same time, Nanyanzhou and Nanxuzhou were merged. On February 12, 454 AD, Liu Zunkao was promoted to General of Pingxi and governor of Yuzhou. On February 14, 454 AD, Wang Jun of Shixing became the Guard General and governor of Jingzhou. On February 18, 454 AD, Wuling King led the army to attack the Western Yang tribes. On February 23, 454 AD, Wang Shuo of Nanping was appointed as the General of the Army and concurrently as the General of the Army. Ah, during that time, Qingzhou and Xuzhou faced famine.
On the Renzi day in February (March 17th, 454 AD), the emperor sent people to deliver food to aid disaster victims. On the Jiazi day (March 19th, 454 AD), the emperor died in Hanzhang Hall at the age of forty-seven. He was posthumously titled Emperor Jing and given the temple name Zhongzong. On the Guisi day in March (April 11th, 454 AD), the emperor was buried in Changning Mausoleum. After the new emperor ascended to the throne and changed the Taizu Emperor’s posthumous title and temple name.
Historians note that Emperor Taizu was exceptionally talented in his youth. Although he did not receive strict education, he was naturally intelligent and kind-hearted, possessing the qualities of a monarch. During his lengthy reign, the country was well-governed with clear and strict laws, distinct rewards and punishments, and titles were not given lightly. Therefore, the country enjoyed peace and prosperity. The Jianwu and Yongping periods of the Han Dynasty were known as prosperous times, and since then, people often compared them to the Yuanjia period, showing the prosperity of that time!
The emperor often appointed generals in violation of the military command system. Although his abilities were slightly inferior to Emperor Guangwu, he could command the army remotely in battle. Even in times of war, the generals had to obey the emperor's orders. Although there were failures in battles at times, the generals were not incompetent, and the prolonged disturbances along the borders had their reasons. In his later years, those around the emperor became increasingly difficult to manage, although these troubles were unforeseen by the emperor, they had their own causes. Alas, it is indeed a great pity!
