In the first month of the year 209 BC, on the eighth day of Xinsi (in the lunar calendar), our great army gathered in Zhuojun. The Emperor appointed Duan Wenzhen, the Minister of War, as the Left Guard General. The next day, on Renwu day (in the lunar calendar), the Emperor issued an imperial edict:
(The imperial edict content should be provided here for further translation)
The heavens operate justly, and autumn frost is a natural occurrence; the sage and benevolent ruler must also resort to the army in the penal code.
Thus, the harshness of nature serves the purpose of fairness; the emperor uses the army as a last resort.
From ancient times, those who pacified rebellions and overthrew tyranny did so by following the will of the people. Just as the Xia dynasty swore allegiance in Gan Ye, inheriting the legacy of Emperor Yu; the Shang dynasty punished outside the capital, fulfilling King Wen's aspirations. Having carefully studied history, I believe it is now my turn.
Our great Sui dynasty, favored by heaven, governs the world, with vast territories stretching from Xiliu and Pantao to Zitong and Huangzhi, all submitting to us. The country is stable, and the world is at peace; it is meant to be this way.
The Korean fools, ignorant and disrespectful, gather between the cliffs of Bo, relying on the Liao state. Although the Han and Wei dynasties once punished them, their nests were only temporarily destroyed, and before long, they rose from the ashes. They have lived in that land for generations, with an ever-increasing population occupying fertile soil, yet they act like barbarians. Over the years, their transgressions have accumulated, and heaven is about to punish them; signs of their impending doom have already appeared.
Disorderly and morally corrupt, they cannot be fully depicted; they conceal their wickedness and harbor treachery, yet the light of heaven has shone too little. Stern warnings have been issued, but they have never faced the consequences for their actions; no one is willing to personally attend the court ceremonies. They entice traitors and accept them, unaware of the limits, filling the borders with unrest, urgently troubling the watchmen, making the borders unstable, and causing people to abandon their livelihoods. In the past, their raids have already slipped through the heavenly net; they have delayed capturing and punishing those who deserve it and have not executed those who should have been subdued. They have not valued mercy but turned to long-lasting evil, forming alliances with the Khitan, sincerely guarding the Liu Hai region, adopting the attire of the Mohe people, and encroaching upon the western Liao. Moreover, the outer regions of Qingqiu diligently pay their tributes, and along the shores of the blue sea, they share the same imperial decree, thus resuming their confiscation of treasures and blocking trade, inflicting cruelty upon the innocent, and they are truly facing disaster.
They have long been causing chaos, marked by moral decay, deception, and concealment; their crimes are countless. They disregard the court's warnings, refuse to appear before the court, and even collude with defector officials. Rebellious forces are everywhere along the borders, with the fires of war burning continuously, and the common people cannot live in peace and contentment. The punishments imposed in the past were far too lenient, which has only emboldened them further; they even colluded with the Khitan, adopted the attire of the Mohe people, and invaded the Liao West region. Even the nations along the coasts of Qingqiu and Bihai pay tribute to us, but they seize the tributes, cut off communications, and harm innocent civilians; they have truly brought this upon themselves!
When our envoy traveled to the eastern sea, the banners and flags were set up, but they blocked the roads and refused the royal envoy. Such blatant disregard for the king's authority is unworthy of a subject! If this is tolerable, then what can we not endure? Moreover, the laws are harsh, and the taxes burdensome; powerful officials and noble families wield power, factionalism is rampant, and bribery is as common as market goods, with grievances unaddressed. Coupled with years of disasters and famine, people are starving, wars are unceasing, and forced labor is endless, exhausting the populace to the point of collapse. The common people are suffering; who can they turn to? The nation is filled with despair, overwhelmed by its troubles. Looking back at the situation, everyone is worried for their lives, with the elderly and young alike sighing in anguish. Observing the customs and trends, we are forced to bend to the situation, mourning and seeking justice, without waiting for another opportunity.
We sent envoys to Goryeo, but they blocked the roads and refused to meet us, showing no appearance of a subject! Can this still be tolerated? Moreover, their laws are brutal, taxes heavy, powerful officials and noble families control the government, factional strife is prevalent, and bribery is rampant, leaving the common people with nowhere to voice their grievances. Adding to this are years of natural disasters, with the people starving, wars ongoing, and forced labor unending; the populace is exhausted and struggling to survive. The suffering of the common people is unbearable; who can they turn to for help? Throughout the country, there are complaints everywhere, and the situation has become intolerable. Witnessing all of this fills my heart with sorrow.
Therefore, the six divisions of the kin are established, with the ninth division leading the attack, rescuing those in peril, aligning with the will of heaven, eradicating the filth, and carrying on the previous strategy. It is now time to adhere to the regulations and commence, dividing the routes with flags, concealing the rivers and striking with thunder, sweeping with lightning. Compare the weapons and armor, vowing to advance only after the troops, repeatedly issue orders, and only fight after ensuring victory. The first army on the left will take the Fangdao, the second army will take the Changcendao, the third army will take the Haimingdao, the fourth army will take the Gaimadao, the fifth army will take the Jian'andao, the sixth army will take the Nansudao, the seventh army will take the Liaodongdao, the eighth army will take the Xuantudao, the ninth army will take the Fuyudao, the tenth army will take the Chaoxiandao, the eleventh army will take the Wojiudao, the twelfth army will take the Lelangdao. The first army on the right will take the Nianchandao, the second army will take the Hanzidao, the third army will take the Hunmidao, the fourth army will take the Lintundao, the fifth army will take the Houchengdao, the sixth army will take the Tixidao, the seventh army will take the Tadundao, the eighth army will take the Sushendao, the ninth army will take the Jieshidao, the tenth army will take the Dongxidao, the eleventh army will take the Daifangdao, the twelfth army will take the Xiangpingdao.
Therefore, I personally lead the army to attack Goryeo, save them from danger, act in accordance with heaven's will, defeat these rebels, and inherit the great achievements of our ancestors. Now, we should mobilize the troops in accordance with the law, divide them at various intersections, and launch a swift attack that cuts through like a hot knife through butter. Before the army departs, we must prepare thoroughly, take an oath, issue clear orders, and secure victory. Left army: First Army will take the Loufang Road, Second Army will take the Changcen Road, Third Army will take the Haiming Road, Fourth Army will take the Gaima Road, Fifth Army will take the Jian'an Road, Sixth Army will take the Nansu Road, Seventh Army will take the Liaodong Road, Eighth Army will take the Xuantu Road, Ninth Army will take the Fuyu Road, Tenth Army will take the Korea Road, Eleventh Army will take the Woju Road, Twelfth Army will take the Lelang Road. Right army: First Army will take the Nianchan Road, Second Army will take the Hanzai Road, Third Army will take the Hunmi Road, Fourth Army will take the Lintun Road, Fifth Army will take the Houcheng Road, Sixth Army will take the Tixi Road, Seventh Army will take the Tadun Road, Eighth Army will take the Sushen Road, Ninth Army will take the Jieshi Road, Tenth Army will take the Dongxi Road, Eleventh Army will take the Daifang Road, Twelfth Army...
It will cost a total of 1,133,800 guan, referred to as 2 million guan, but the actual transportation costs are double that. In the Guiwei year, the first army set out, taking a full forty days to mobilize all the forces. The army's flags stretched for miles, a scale unprecedented in modern history.
In the Yiwei year, Wei Xuan was appointed as the Minister of Punishments. In the Jiachen year, the Prefect of Jingzhao, Yuan Shou, died. On the day of Jia Yin in the second month, the emperor issued a decree stating that he personally led the troops to the Yan area border to fight against the enemies of Liaodong. The officials and soldiers worked together, with every soldier stepping up bravely. Everyone actively joined the army to serve the country, abandoning their homes and businesses to enlist, with hardly anyone storing food or even thinking about farming. The emperor was deeply concerned day and night about a lack of military supplies. Even soldiers who were well-fed and clothed were wholeheartedly devoted to the country, and to encourage them, they should be treated well. Officials below the first rank and the families of soldiers should receive regular support from local officials. Those with insufficient food should be given assistance, and those who are poor and cannot cultivate their land can be encouraged to seek help from wealthy families. Those left behind should have sufficient resources, while those going to war should have no worries. In the Renxu year, Wang Xiong, the Minister of Works, the Right Guard General, and the Left Grand Master of Splendor, passed away. On the day of Xinmao in the third month, Duan Wenzhen, the Minister of War, passed away. In the Guisi year, the emperor personally went to the front lines. On the day of Jiawu, his entourage crossed the Liao River. On the day of Wuxu, the army was ambushed by the enemy and could not cross the Liao River. The Right Guard General and the Left Grand Master of Splendor, Maitezhang, and the warriors Qian Shixiong and Meng Jincha all fell in battle. On the day of Jiawu, a fierce battle broke out on the east bank against the enemy, leading to a decisive victory and the siege of Liaodong City. On the day of Yiwei, the army set up camp and spotted two enormous birds, over ten feet tall, with pristine white feathers and bright red feet, leisurely flying in the sky. The emperor found this quite strange and ordered the artisans to sketch them and penned an inscription in their honor.
On the Renwu day in May, Chancellor Yang Da passed away. At that time, all the generals were carrying out their orders and did not dare to act independently. However, the cities of Goryeo held firm and did not surrender, leading to a prolonged siege. On the Jiwuwei day in June, the Emperor personally visited Liaodong to reprimand the generals. He stationed himself a few miles west of Liaodong City and inspected Liuhe City. On the Renyin day in July, Yu Wenshu and others were defeated in the Battle of Sui River, and Right Tunwei General Xin Shixiong was killed in battle. All nine armies were utterly routed, resulting in over two thousand cavalry casualties. On the Guimao day, the army returned to the imperial capital. On the Gengchen day in September, the Emperor arrived at the Eastern Capital.
On the Jichou day, the Emperor issued an edict that stated: "Military and state affairs differ, and the roles of civil and military officials are also distinct. Suppressing rebellions and pacifying the people are key to the prosperity of a hegemony; educating the populace and stabilizing society are fundamental to the prosperity of a monarchy. During times of turmoil, even common merchants can rise to official positions; in times of peace, only those well-versed in the classics can hold office. At the beginning of Fengdu's establishment, Confucian scholars did not participate in political affairs; during the Jianwu period, meritorious officials also did not hold positions. Since the world has not yet been unified and wars rage across the four seas, there has been no time to develop cultural education, and only military achievements have been valued. Appointments are rarely made based on ability, and those in the court are promoted based on military merit, most of whom are warriors forged in battle; they do not study culture and do not understand political affairs, leading to corruption and bribery, which in turn harms the people through mismanagement of governance. This is the root cause of these issues. From now on, all officials who are granted titles of nobility shall no longer hold civil or military positions. I aim to emulate the reforms of ancient times, to adjust matters as one would tune a lute, to operate within the system without undermining its integrity. If the Ministry of Personnel makes unauthorized appointments, the Censor should bring charges against them."
On October 1st, Yuwen Kai, the Minister of Works, passed away. On November 11th, Princess Huarong was married to the King of Gaochang. On December 3rd, Han Shou, the Grand Master of Splendor, passed away. On January 4th, defeated generals Yuwen Shu, Yu Zhongwen, and others were demoted to civilians, and Liu Shilong, the Deputy Minister of Works, was executed to appease public anger. That year, there was a severe drought and an outbreak of epidemic diseases, resulting in many deaths, especially in the Shandong region. The Emperor secretly ordered the inspection of young women in the Jianghuai region, selecting those with beautiful appearances for annual tribute.
In the year 617 AD, the Emperor ordered a nationwide conscription of elite soldiers to assemble in Zhuo County. A few days later, bandits like Du Yanbing and Wang Run raided Pingyuan County, looted, and then fled. Subsequently, the court established positions for commanders like Zhechong, Guoyi, Wuyong, and Xiongwu to command these newly recruited elite soldiers. A few days later, Li Deyi of Pingyuan County raised a force of tens of thousands, who called themselves the "Uncle Bandits," looting and pillaging in Shandong. At the same time, Bai Yu of Lingwu also called themselves the "Slave Bandits," plundering horses and colluding with the Turks, inflicting significant damage in the Longyou region. The court sent General Fan Gui to suppress them, but after years of fighting, they had still not been defeated. In the first month of that year, the court declared a general amnesty. Subsequently, the Emperor appointed Prince Yang You and Wei Xuan, the Minister of Justice, to defend the capital. Li Hun was appointed as the Grand General of the Right Vanguard.
In February, Han Jinluo from Jibei gathered tens of thousands of people to become outlaws. The court restored the official titles of Yu Wen Shu and others, and conscripted soldiers to prepare for an expedition against Goryeo. In March, Meng Haigong from Jiyin also rose in rebellion, with tens of thousands following him. The emperor ordered the conscription of 100,000 young men to construct Daxing City. After that, the emperor personally led a campaign to Liaodong, leaving King Yue Yang Tong and Minister of Civil Affairs Fan Zigai to defend the Eastern Capital, Luoyang. Guo Fangyu from Beihai gathered 30,000 followers and declared himself Duke Lu, capturing the prefectural city, plundering before making a quick escape. In April, the emperor crossed the Liao River. The court dispatched Yu Wen Shu and Yang Yichen to assault Pyongyang.
In May, the comet appeared in the Southern Dipper constellation (an astronomical phenomenon). Zhen Baoche from Jibei also gathered over 10,000 people, burning, killing, and looting throughout the region. In June, Minister of Rites Yang Xuangan raised an army in Liyang to rebel. Yang Xuangan quickly advanced toward the Eastern Capital, Luoyang, where Pei Hongce from Henan Zhanwu put up a resistance but was ultimately defeated by Yang Xuangan. Husi Zheng, the Minister of War, fled to Goryeo. The court quickly dispatched troops to suppress the rebellion, and the Goryeo army took the opportunity to attack the rear troops. The emperor appointed Li Jing as the general for rear defense. At the same time, he sent Yu Wen Shu, Qu Tuitong, and others to urgently mobilize troops to suppress Yang Xuangan. In July, the court ordered the mobilization of troops from various regions to bolster city defenses. Liu Yuanjin from Yuhang also raised an army in rebellion, with tens of thousands at his command.
In August, Yu Wenshu and others finally defeated Yang Xuange in Wenxiang, beheaded him, and subdued his remaining followers. Zhu Xie from Wu and Guan Chong from Jinling led over 100,000 troops, declaring themselves generals, causing unrest in the Jiangzuo region. The court ordered tax exemptions for the families of the Xiangguo soldiers. It also ordered that any road between cities and counties that exceeds five li must be modified. The court also mandated the confiscation of thieves' property. Chen Zhen led 30,000 troops to capture Xinan County. The Minister of Agriculture Zhao Yuanshu was executed for his crimes. In September, Wu Hailiu from Ji Yin and Peng Xiaocai from Donghai also rebelled, each commanding tens of thousands of followers. Liang Huishang led 40,000 troops to capture Cangwu County. The Emperor arrived in Shanggu, and due to a lack of military funds, he was furious and dismissed officials, including Governor Yu He. Li San'er from Dongyang and Xiang Danzi also rebelled, each commanding over 10,000 followers.
In October, the emperor arrived in Boling, overwhelmed with emotion, saying that he had accompanied the late emperor here when he was eight years old, and now more than thirty years had passed. The past was painful to recall, and he couldn't help but shed tears, and the guards couldn't help but cry along. "I once accompanied the late emperor here at the tender age of eight; time passes swiftly, and in the blink of an eye, three decades have gone by. Reflecting on the past, it is no longer attainable!" In October, Lu Mingxing led thousands of people to besiege Dongjun, but was killed by General Fei Qingnu. The emperor issued a decree saying, "Boling was once Dingzhou, an important geographical location. The late emperor stationed here multiple times, and the royal virtue spread far and wide from here. Therefore, this place can be compared to the splendor of the 'Book of Songs' and the virtuous actions of Yao Yi. As I surveyed the people and gazed at the countryside here, reminisced about the late emperor, and sought ways to extend blessings to the people, to honor my ancestors. Thus, I have renamed Boling to Gaoyang County, pardoned criminals with sentences below death, and reduced taxes for a year." Then, the emperor summoned the old ministers from the time of Gaozu and arranged positions for them based on their abilities. Su Wei was appointed as Minister of State, holding the title of San Si. Zhu Xie and Guan Chong supported Liu Yuanjin as emperor. The court dispatched Tu Wanxu and Yu Juluo to conduct military campaigns, but despite years of fighting, they failed to achieve victory. In the region of Qi, Meng Rang, Wang Bo, and others led over a hundred thousand troops to occupy Changbai Mountain and attacked various counties. Zhang Jincheng from Qinghe also led tens of thousands to rebel, while Ge Qian from Bohai proclaimed himself King of Yan and Sun Xuanya claimed to be King of Qi, each commanding an army of a hundred thousand, inflicting great suffering on the people of Shandong. Guo Rong was appointed as the General of the Right Guard.
In November, Feng Xiaoci went to suppress Zhang Jincheng but was defeated and killed. In December, Yang Xuangan's brother Jishan and over ten others were executed by quartering, and their bodies were burned and their ashes scattered. Xiang Haiming rebelled in Fufeng, claiming the title of emperor and adopting the era name Baiwu, but was defeated by Yang Yichen.
It is said that ten years ago, on the first day of the first month, known as Jia Yin, the emperor bestowed the title of Princess of Faith and Loyalty upon a member of the royal family, marrying her to the Turkic Khagan Hesuona.
Not long after, on the day of the second month of the year of Xinyou, the emperor summoned all the ministers to discuss the matter of attacking Goryeo. Several days passed, but no one dared to speak up. The emperor was anxious, and finally, on the day of Wuzi, he issued an edict full of helplessness and reflection: "For the country, everyone has put in their best efforts to fight, risking their lives. Everyone is loyal and dedicated. However, the deaths on the battlefield and the bones left in the wilderness, every time I think about it, I feel extremely sad. When we set out to attack, we were about to reach the border of Liaodong; the plan was well thought out, victory seemed assured, and we had a clear strategy for retreat. However, because of that fool Gao Qiang, he is foolish and incompetent, he doesn't understand the outcome of war at all, and he is arrogant and reckless, lacking in strategy, leading soldiers into battle like playing at war, disregarding soldiers' lives and ignoring the rules of engagement, resulting in many soldiers dying in battle, without even a chance to bury them. Now, we should send people to collect the bones of these soldiers, establish an altar in Liaoxi, and construct a temple to honor the souls. Only in this way can we comfort the souls of the deceased and demonstrate the court's compassion." On the day of Xinmao, the emperor issued another edict... The Yellow Emperor fought fifty-two battles, King Tang fought twenty-seven battles; only then could they implement good governance and command the world. Look, Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang personally led troops to attack the minor rebel Lu Fang, Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu even personally went to Longxi to suppress the remnants of Wei Xiao! Don't they want to eliminate rebellion, stop war, and only after labor can they obtain ease?
I have inherited the ancestral legacy, ruling the world. In all the lands where the sun and moon shine and the winds and rains blow, which one is not my subject? Only Goryeo, this small territory, situated on the periphery, is as fierce as an owl and as greedy as a wolf, with no regard for others, arrogant and rude, repeatedly invading my borders, raiding my towns. So last year, I dispatched troops to launch an offensive against Goryeo, defeated their main forces at Xuanfu, and killed their leader in Xiangping. Our army is as fast as the wind, as swift as lightning, chasing the fleeing enemy troops all the way to the Bei River, crossing the sea by boat, striking at the heart of the enemy, burning their cities, sacking their palaces. Gao Yuan quickly knelt down to beg for mercy, offering gifts, requesting an audience with me, admitting guilt and accepting punishment. Recognizing his willingness to repent, I ordered the army to return to the capital.
But these guys have not repented at all, instead becoming more arrogant and ruthless. Is this something I can tolerate? What more can I endure? Now, I have resolved to split the troops into six divisions and launch a simultaneous attack. I will personally command the army, organize the troops in Wandu, review the troops on the Liao River, following the will of heaven, exterminating the enemies overseas, saving the people in dire straits. Using war to correct them, using benevolence to win them over, eliminate the instigators; I will not care about anything else. If they can recognize the line between survival and destruction, understand the key to safety, quickly turn back, submit to me, and seek blessings for themselves; if they remain stubborn and continue to resist the royal army, then, like a spark that can set a prairie ablaze, I will punish them severely! The relevant authorities must swiftly relay my message to all, so that all are aware!
In the Dingyou year, Tang Bi, a resident of Fufeng in Shaanxi, led a rebellion, proclaiming Li Hong as emperor and declaring himself king, titled King of Tang. On Renzi Day in March, they went to Zhuojun. On Guihai Day, the troops camped at Linyu Palace, where Li Hong personally donned military attire, worshiped the Yellow Emperor, and sacrificed some traitors as a rallying gesture to bolster morale.
On Xinwei Day in April, an outlaw named Zhang Dabiao appeared in Pengcheng, rallying tens of thousands and occupying Xuanbosh Mountain as a raider. The court sent Dong Chun, the governor of Yulin, to deal with him, which led to the death of Zhang Dabiao. On Jiawu Day, the emperor's carriage arrived in Beiping. On Gengzi Day in May, the emperor ordered each county to recommend ten individuals who demonstrated filial piety, friendship, and integrity. On Renyin Day, the bandit leader Song Shimo took Langya County. On Gengshen Day, Liu Jialun from Yan'an also rebelled, claiming the title of emperor and changing the era to Dasheng.
On Xinwei Day in June, bandit leaders Zheng Wenyang, Lin Baohu, and others, commanding 30,000 troops, captured Jian'an County, resulting in the death of Governor Yang Jingxiang. On Guichou Day in July, the emperor's carriage arrived in Huaiyuan Town. On Yimao Day, the state of Cao sent envoys to pay tribute with goods. On Jiazi Day, the kingdom of Goryeo sent envoys to surrender, bringing along the traitor Hushi Zheng. The emperor was very pleased. On Jisi Day in August, the army returned to the capital. On Gengwu Day, the Right Guard General and Left Minister Zheng Rong passed away.
On Dingmao Day in October, the emperor arrived in the Eastern Capital. On Jichou Day, he returned to the capital. On Bingshen Day in November, the emperor ordered Hushi Zheng's execution outside Jinguang Gate. On Yisi Day, the emperor conducted a sacrifice in the southern suburbs. On Jiyou Day, bandit leader Sima Chang'an captured Changping County. On Yimao Day, Liu Miaowang, a Hu man from Lishi, rebelled, claiming the title of emperor, with his brother Liu Er being granted the title of King of Yong'an, commanding tens of thousands. General Pan Changwen was dispatched to put down the rebellion but was unsuccessful. That month, bandit leader Wang Derun, commanding tens of thousands, took over Linlv Mountain.
On the Ren Shen day in December, the emperor left the Eastern Capital again, and on the same day, he issued a general amnesty. On the Wu Zi day, the emperor arrived in the Eastern Capital. On the Geng Yin day, the rebel leader Meng Rang seized Duliang Palace with an army of over ten thousand. The magistrate of Jiangdu, Wang Shichong, was sent to attack and won a decisive victory, capturing all of Meng Rang's army.
In the year 690 AD, in the first month of the year, Wu Zetian hosted a banquet for civilian and military officials. Envoys from various countries such as the Turks, Silla, Mohe, Bidashi, Hedu, Chuyue, Wunaho, Poluo, Tuhuoluo, Julujian, Hulun, Mohe, Heduo, Peihan, Kucha, Shule, Yutian, Anguo, Caoguo, Heguo, Mugu, Bi, Yimi, Shifanyan, Qiazhel, Khitan, and others came to pay tribute, creating a lively atmosphere. On the Wu Xu day of this month, General Gao Jianpi defeated the rebel general Yan Xuanzheng in Qi county, capturing thousands of people. On the Yi Mao day, Wu Zetian once again hosted these foreign envoys with great grandeur, even performing the grand "Yulong Manyan" music and presenting gifts tailored to each country’s status.
On February 26th in the year of Wuchen, rebel chief Yang Zhongxu led over ten thousand troops to attack Beiping, but was fortunately defeated and killed by Li Jing, the governor of Huazhou. On the day of Gengwu, Wu Zetian issued a decree, stating: "Building defenses in strategic locations to protect the country is an age-old practice; establishing numerous checkpoints to combat rebellion is also a strategy of our predecessors, all of which are for the stability of the country and the consolidation of its foundation. However, in recent years, with continuous wars, the people have been displaced, the fields have been abandoned, and the city defenses have fallen into disrepair, resulting in more idle people and an ongoing presence of thieves. Now that the realm is peaceful, everyone should be concentrated in the cities, with nearby fields allocated for farming, allowing the strong and the weak to help each other, sharing the workload. This way, those who want to commit crimes will have nowhere to hide, and the fleeing thieves will not be able to gather. Relevant authorities need to come up with specific measures to make this happen." On the day of Bingzi, Wang Xuba from Shanggu rebelled, proclaiming himself the "Sky King" and establishing the "Yan" Kingdom; the rebel chief Wei Diaor proclaimed himself "Lishan Fei," and both led over a hundred thousand troops each, colluding with the Turks in the north while assaulting Zhaozhou in the south.
On the Dingyou day in May, Wu Zetian executed General Li Hun of the Right Imperial Guards and Li Min, the Supervisor of the Imperial Workshops, and exterminated their entire families. On the Guimao day, the bandit leader Sima Chang'an attacked and captured the Western River Commandery. On the Jiyou day, Wu Zetian went to the Fenyang Palace in Taiyuan to avoid the summer heat. On the Jihai day in July, Zhang Qixu from Huainan raised a rebellion, gathering more than thirty thousand followers. On the Xinchou day, the Grand Minister of Grace, General Zhang Shou of the Right Imperial Guards, passed away. On the Yichou day in August, Wu Zetian inspected the northern border defenses. On the Wuchen day, the Turkic Khagan Shibi led hundreds of thousands of troops, attempting to ambush the Emperor's procession, and Princess Yicheng sent a messenger to report this. On the Renshen day, Wu Zetian's convoy quickly rushed to Yanmen Pass. On the Guiyou day, the Turkic army surrounded Yanmen Pass, and the officials and soldiers failed in battle multiple times. Wu Zetian was extremely alarmed and wanted to lead elite cavalry to break out, but fortunately, the Minister of Civil Affairs Fan Zigai strongly advised against it, and she ultimately abandoned the idea. Prince Qi, Li Dan, stationed his rear army in Guoxian. On the Jiashen day, Wu Zetian ordered the recruitment of soldiers from all counties and commanderies across the nation, and thus, local garrisons mobilized to provide support. On the Jiachen day in September, the Turkic forces lifted the siege and withdrew. On the Dingwei day, Wu Zetian ordered the pardon of criminals sentenced to death and lesser offenses in Taiyuan and Yanmen commanderies.
On the 10th day of the 10th lunar month, Wu Zetian arrived in the eastern capital of Luoyang. On the 4th day of the 4th lunar month, Wei Qilin, a man from Pengcheng, gathered more than 10,000 troops to rebel, attacking Lu County. On the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, rebel leader Lu Mingyue gathered over 100,000 troops, attacking the area between Chenzhou and Ruzhou. The pirate leader Li Zitong from Donghai led his army across the Huai River, proclaiming himself the "King of Chu," renaming the era to "Mingzheng," and attacking Jiangdu. On the 1st day of the 11th lunar month, rebel leader Wang Xuba broke through Gaoyang County. On the 1st day of the 12th lunar month, a huge meteor, the size of the Big Dipper, fell on Mingyue's camp, smashing their war chariots. On the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, Wu Zetian ordered Fan Zigai, the Minister of Civil Affairs, to mobilize troops from Guanzhong to suppress the rebels Jingtanduo and Chaibaochang in Jiang County, but they could not be defeated after a long battle. Zhu Can, a man from Qiao County, gathered hundreds of thousands of troops and attacked the Jingxiang region, claiming himself the "Emperor of Chu," renaming the era to "Changda," and occupying many counties in southern Han. In January of the year 617, during the first month of the Jiawu year, Zhai Songbai from Yanmen rebelled in Lingqiu, gathering tens of thousands of troops, attacking nearby counties. On the day of the 5th lunar month, envoys from Zhenla brought tribute. On the night of the 1st day of the 1st lunar month, two large birds, resembling eagles, flew into the Great Yedian of the imperial palace and perched in the emperor's tent until dawn before flying away. On the 12th day of the lunar month, the pirate Lu Gongxian from Donghai occupied Cangshan with over 10,000 troops. On the 4th day of the 4th lunar month, Xianyangmen caught on fire. On the 12th day of the lunar month, Wei Diao'er's subordinate Zhen Zhaier rebelled under the banner of "Lishan Fei," leading 100,000 troops to attack Taiyuan. General Pan Changwen went to suppress him but was defeated by Zhen Zhaier, resulting in Pan Changwen's death. On the 1st day of the 5th lunar month, there was a solar eclipse. On the 12th day of the lunar month, a very large meteor fell in Wu County, turning into a stone. On the day of the 9th lunar month, the emperor gathered fireflies in Jinghua Palace, collecting several bushels, and released them while touring the mountains at night, illuminating the valleys with the fireflies' light.
Fan Zigai, the Minister of Civil Affairs and Grand Master of Splendor, Duke of Jibei, passed away in July of the year Ren Xu. On the Jia Zi day, the Emperor left Jiangdu Palace, leaving Prince Dong of Yue, Grand Master of Splendor Duan Da, Minister of Works Yuan Wendu, Acting Minister of Civil Affairs Wei Jin, General Huangfu Wuyi of the Right Wuwei, and Right Chamberlain Lu Chu in charge of harem affairs. The Imperial Messenger Cui Minxiang submitted a memorial stating that bandits were rampant, which greatly angered the Emperor. He first had him mutilated and then executed. On the Wu Chen day, Sun Hua, a man from Fengyi, declared himself the commander and rebelled. The Governor of Gaoliang, Tong Xibao, also rebelled, and many tribes in the mountainous areas of Lingnan responded to him. On the Ji Si day, the Yinghuo Imperial Guard remained for a month before departing. The Emperor's chariot arrived at Sishui, and the Imperial Messenger Wang Airen advised the Emperor to return to the Western Capital because of the growing number of bandits. The Emperor was greatly angered and had him killed before continuing on. In August, on the Yi Si day, the bandit leader Zhao Wanhai led hundreds of thousands of troops in an attack on Gaoyang from Mount Heng. On the Ren Zi day, a massive meteor streaked across the Wangliang Pavilion Road, sounding like a collapsing city wall. On the Gui Chou day, a meteor as large as a water tank flew over the Yinghuo Imperial Guard. In September, on the Ding You day, individuals from Donghai, including Du Yangzhou and Shen Midui, rebelled, with a number reaching tens of thousands. Right Imperial Guard General Chen Leng defeated them. On the Wu Wu day, two curved arrows shot out from the Beidou Kui star, curving like snakes towards the Nandou. On the Ren Xu day, Lifu Shixiong, a man from Anding, killed the magistrate of Linjing, rebelled, and proclaimed himself a general.
In October of the Year of the Earth Ox, the Minister of State holding the same rank as the Three Excellencies, Grand General of the Left Guard, and Noble of the Court, Lord Xu Yuwen Shu passed away. In December, the bandit Cao Tiancheng from Poyang raised an army to rebel, claiming the title of King Yuanxing and the era name of Shixing, capturing Yuzhang Commandery. On the day of Yiyou, Right Grand General Lai Huer was appointed as Minister of State, holding the same rank as the Three Excellencies, and Acting Grand General of the Left Guard. On the day of Renchen, Lin Shihong from Poyang proclaimed himself emperor, naming his state Chu and adopting the era name of Taiping, capturing Jiujiang and Luling Commandery. Duke Tang defeated Zhen Zhaier in Xihe, capturing thousands of men and women as prisoners.
In January of the year 617, bandit Du Fuwei from Qijun crossed the Huai River with his forces, breaking through Liyang Commandery. In the same month, bandit Dou Jiande from Bohai established an altar in Hejian Leshou, claiming the title of King Changle and adopting the era name of Dingchou. A few days later, the bandit leader Xu Yuanlang led thousands of troops and broke through Dongping Commandery. In Honghua, an individual named Liu Qicheng gathered a force of over ten thousand to become a bandit, inflicting suffering on the nearby commanderies and counties.
In February, the Shuo Fang individual Liang Shidu killed the county magistrate Tang Shizong, occupied the commandery, and rebelled, claiming the title of Grand Chancellor. The court dispatched the Silver-Blue Noble of the Court, Zhang Shilong, to suppress him, but was instead defeated by Liang Shidu. In this month, bandit leader Wang Ziying broke through Shanggu Commandery. Subsequently, Liu Wuzhou, a captain from Mayi, killed the governor Wang Rengong and rebelled, colluding with Turkic forces, claiming the title of Ding Yang Khan. Li Mi and Zhai Rang attacked and broke through Xingluo Granary. King Yue Yang Tong sent Liu Changgong and Fang Zhan to suppress them, but they were defeated again, resulting in significant casualties, estimated at around fifteen to sixteen thousand. Li Mi proclaimed himself Duke Wei and established an era name, and opened the granary to aid the bandits, quickly gathering over a hundred thousand followers, with several commanderies and counties in Henan coming under their control. Liu Wuzhou defeated Wang Zhibian in Sanggan Town, and Wang Zhibian was killed during the battle.
In March, Zhang Zilu of Lujiang also raised an army in rebellion, and the court dispatched Chen Ling to quell the rebellion. Li Tongde led an army of 100,000 to attack Lujiang but was defeated by Zhang Zhenzhou. In April, Xue Ju, the captain of Jincheng, rebelled, who proclaimed himself the Overlord of Western Qin, and renamed the era Qin Xing, capturing several counties in Longyou. Meng Rang sneaked into the outskirts of the Eastern Capital at night, set fire to Fengdu City before escaping. Li Mi captured the East Warehouse of Huiluo. Fang Xianbo captured Ruyin County. During this month, Pei Renji, Zhao Tuo, and others surrendered their forces to Li Mi. In May, a meteor, as large as a water tank, fell from the sky at night, landing in Jiangdu. Tang Gong Li Yuan raised an army in Taiyuan. Thousands of Turks attacked Taiyuan but were defeated by Li Yuan.
In July, the comet was positioned in the heart of the constellation (astronomical phenomenon). In August, Li Gui raised an army to rebel in Wuwei, capturing several counties in Hexi, claiming the title of King of Liang and changing the era name to Anle. In August, Li Yuan defeated and executed Song Laosheng in Huoyi. In September, the court gathered the widows from Jiangdu to serve as wives for the soldiers. Yuan Baozang, the county magistrate of Wuyang, surrendered along with his counties to Li Mi, and he and Li Wenxiang together broke through Liyang Warehouse. A comet appeared in the sky. In October, Yang Shiluo from Taiyuan gathered more than ten thousand people, burning, killing, and pillaging throughout the land. Xiao Xian raised an army to rebel in Luoxian, and Dong Jingzhen answered the call by raising an army in Poyang, supporting Xiao Xian as King of Liang and capturing nearby counties. Gao Bi defeated the bandit Zhen Baoche from Jibei County.
In November, Li Yuan entered the capital, Chang'an. Li Yuan honored Yang Guang as the Retired Emperor and supported Yang You as the emperor, changing the era name to Yining. Yang Guang left Chang'an, preparing to go to Jiangzuo. At this time, a black magpie built a nest in the tent, which could not be driven away. The comet was in the Taiwei constellation (astronomical phenomenon). A stone drifted down the Yangtze River and floated into the Yangzi River. The sunlight scattered, looking like blood. Yang Guang found this extremely distasteful.
In March of the year 618 AD, General Yǔwén Huàjí, along with Sīmǎ Dékān, Yuánlǐ, and other military commanders, guarded the palace gates and the Imperial Library. Yǔwén Zhì, Zhào Xíngshū, Mèng Jǐng, Yuán Mǐn, Lǐ Fù, Niú Fāngyù, and the Li Xiào brothers (Li Xiào Zhi) of the Thousand Cows Guards, as well as Xǔ Hóngrén, Xuē Shìliáng, Táng Fèngyì, and the court physician Zhāng Kǎi, led a rebellion and stormed into the palace. The Emperor passed away in his private chamber at the age of fifty. Empress Xiāo had the bedding removed from the bed and fashioned into a simple coffin to bury the Emperor.
After the rebellion led by Yǔwén Huàjí, General Chén Léng moved the Emperor's coffin to the Chéngxiàng Hall and then buried him under Wú Gōngtái. When the burial began, the Emperor's appearance looked as if he were still alive, which puzzled everyone. Later, after the Tang Dynasty subdued the south, the Emperor's tomb was moved to Léi Táng.
Initially, the Emperor himself felt that as a prince, he should not inherit the throne. He often pretended and acted hypocritically to gain a good reputation, while secretly plotting to seize the throne. At that time, Emperor Gāozǔ had great trust in Empress Wénxiàn and was wary of his other concubines. The Crown Prince Yǒng had many favored concubines and fell out of favor. The Emperor did not raise any of the children in the palace to show that he was not favoring anyone and to please the Empress. The influential ministers all maintained friendly relations with him. The eunuchs in the palace treated him with great respect, regardless of their rank, and gave him many gifts. Even the palace maids praised him for his filial piety. He frequently sneaked into the palace to conspire with Empress Xiāo, and Yáng Sù and others also stoked the flames, ultimately leading to the abdication incident.
After Emperor Gaozu fell seriously ill and passed away, during the mourning period, he engaged in debauchery and excessive indulgence; he began to embark on travels. Because the world had been at peace for a long time and the army was strong, he admired the accomplishments of Qin Shi Huang and Han Wu Di, so he initiated grand construction projects, indulged in extravagance, recruited envoys, and sent them to remote areas. Those foreign envoys who came to pay tribute were generously rewarded, but if any envoy disobeyed, he would send troops to subdue them. He intensively developed military farms outside Yumen Pass and Liu City. He also levied taxes from wealthy households nationwide to buy warhorses, each costing over a hundred thousand coins, leading to the ruin and impoverishment of over ninety percent of the nation’s wealthy households.
The emperor was naturally suspicious and cunning, and he did not want anyone to know whom he favored. Whenever he arrived at a place, he would set up camp in several locations, and various delicacies and aquatic products had to be fully prepared, with merchants from all over vying to sell. Officials from various regions competed to offer food as tribute; those who offered generously were promoted, while those who offered meagerly were punished. Corrupt officials ran rampant, the national treasury was empty, and the common people lived in misery. At that time, the state affairs were numerous and complicated, but the emperor was arrogant, lavish, and hedonistic, unwilling to handle political matters, resulting in a backlog of wrongful cases and few memorials being approved. He was also suspicious of his ministers, refusing to entrust them with important tasks; if any courtier displeased him, he would fabricate charges and annihilate their entire family. Therefore, figures like Gao Jiong and He Ruobi, who were once trusted by the late emperor and involved in military and state affairs, as well as old ministers who had loyally served him, were among those targeted.
Political chaos, rampant bribery, and no one dares to speak the truth; people can only watch each other warily. The military exercises continue, and massive construction projects are underway. Those who go out do not return, while those who remain at home are left unemployed. People are turning against one another, villages have become ruins, but the emperor remains indifferent. He wanders around, constantly moving, often due to insufficient funds, imposing additional taxes on the populace for several years. Wherever he goes, he is so preoccupied with pleasure that he barely has a moment to spare with his palace concubines. He hires brothel madams and prostitutes, engages in lewd conversations throughout the day, and even engages in immoral relationships with young men and palace maids, indulging in such behavior. There is a surge of banditry across the country, with thieves robbing officials and slaughtering cities. Courtiers cover for one another, concealing the number of bandits and daring not to report honestly. If someone claims there are many bandits, they will be severely reprimanded. Everyone just wants to protect themselves, deceiving each other, and each military expedition ends in failure. Soldiers fight to the death, but do not receive rewards; innocent people are slaughtered. The people complain loudly, the world is in chaos, and even when captured, the emperor remains oblivious.
Historical records say that Emperor Yang of Sui was famous when he was young; he pacified the Wu Yue region in the south and repelled the Xiongnu in the north, distinguishing himself among his peers. However, he later masked his true nature and indulged in corrupt behavior, which is why he won the empress's favor and earned the emperor's respect. Just as chaos was about to emerge in the world, he ascended the throne.
After becoming emperor, his territory was even larger than that of the previous three dynasties, and his reputation spread throughout the world. The Xiongnu Chanyu bowed to him, and envoys from the distant country of Yueshang came to pay tribute. The rivers in Chang'an overflowed, and food was stockpiled in vast quantities, as national strength reached its peak. But he was insatiable, did not follow the systems of the Yin and Zhou dynasties, nor did he adhere to the rules of the Qin and Han dynasties. Arrogant and malevolent at heart, relying on his talents, he pretended to be calm and composed on the surface, using extravagant clothing to mask his deceit and dismissing advisors to hide his mistakes.
He was debauched and extravagant, the laws grew more and more draconian, the moral fabric of society decayed, the punishments were brutal, relatives were killed, loyal subjects were slaughtered, those who were rewarded were oblivious to their supposed merits, and those who were killed did not know what crimes they had committed. He waged multiple wars, initiated large-scale construction projects, repeatedly marched north, imposed various taxes, and corrupt officials ran rampant, leaving the common people in dire straits. He issued oppressive edicts, oppressed the populace with severe punishments, and used force to intimidate the people. Throughout the country, there were widespread grievances, and the populace struggled to survive.
Soon, Yang Xuangan raised an army in Liyang to rebel, and the Xiongnu surrounded Yanmen Pass, yet Emperor Yang of Sui abandoned the central plains and fled to the south. Malicious opportunists seized the chance to sow chaos, the strong attacked the weak, the passes and roads were choked, and the emperor's carriage went out but could not return. Coupled with war and famine, the common people were uprooted, countless were killed or injured, and a staggering eight or nine out of ten perished. Consequently, uprisings erupted across the land; large factions seized control of states and prefectures, claiming emperorship or kingship; smaller groups gathered in thousands or hundreds, attacking cities and seizing land, rivers ran red with blood, corpses lay everywhere, there was no time to give the dead a proper burial, and people could not even care for their children.
The whole world turned into a battlefield, and the common people became mere fodder. News of battles constantly arrived from all directions, yet Emperor Yang of Sui dismissed it as mere petty crime, not worth worrying about. The upper and lower ranks deceived each other, no one bothered to think about restoring order, and everyone was focused on pleasure. Ultimately, the Sui Dynasty perished, chaos ensued, and Emperor Yang of Sui died at the hands of a minor figure. There was not a single person in the entire country who felt grateful, nor was there a loyal force to rally for the dynasty; his descendants were all killed, their bodies abandoned and left to rot, the state was overturned, and the clan was exterminated. Since recorded history, such widespread chaos and suffering had never before caused a downfall as catastrophic as that of the Sui Dynasty.
The Book of Documents says: "Disasters from heaven can be avoided; but when people commit wrongdoings, there is no escape." The Zuo Commentary says: "Good fortune and misfortune are determined by oneself; disasters do not occur without reason." It also says: "War is like fire; if not controlled, it will burn oneself." Just look at the rise and fall of the Sui Dynasty; this statement is incredibly accurate!
Ah, this really proves the old saying, "what goes up must come down!" At the beginning of the Sui Dynasty, everything was so good: the country was unified, flourishing, and the people lived in peace and contentment; it felt like paradise. But what happened later? Yang Guang became the emperor, and man, he was such an incompetent and tyrannical ruler! He squandered resources on massive projects like the Grand Canal, which brought immense suffering to the people. Complaints were everywhere.
Just think about it: when the common people rise up in rebellion, can the country really stay peaceful? Those rebels were like they were on fire, unstoppable. The Sui Dynasty's army, originally the strongest in the land, couldn't hold up without the people's support and eventually collapsed completely! This truly illustrates the saying, "water can carry a boat, but also overturn it." The Sui Dynasty reaped the bitter fruits of its own wrongdoings in the end.
So, whether you're a good person or an emperor, you can't be too greedy; you can't just chase personal pleasure, but also think about the people's well-being to keep the country stable and the people safe. Otherwise, like the Sui Dynasty, no matter how powerful you are, you will eventually be overthrown! "Do not refrain from doing good because it seems small, do not commit evil because it seems small"; this principle has held true throughout history!
