Emperor Xuan of Han was the great-grandson of Emperor Wu of Han and the grandson of Prince Li. His father, Prince Li, married Consort Shi and had a son named Prince Shi. Prince Shi married Lady Wang and had Xuan, who was then known as the great-grandson to the Emperor. However, a few months after Xuan was born, he encountered the witchcraft purge. His father, grandmother, grandfather, and mother, Lady Wang, were all killed. This incident is recorded in "The Biography of the Crown Prince." Although Xuan was still a baby at the time, he was placed in the county prison. Fortunately, Bing Ji was the superintendent of the prison and in charge of investigating the witchcraft case. He took pity on Xuan, an innocent child, and arranged for female prisoners Huaiyang Zhao Zhengqing and Weicheng Hu Zu to take turns nursing Xuan, secretly providing him with food and clothing, and treating him especially well.
The witchcraft case dragged on for several years without resolution. In the second year of Emperor Wu's reign, he fell ill and shuttled between Changyang Palace and Wuzuo Palace. Some fortune-tellers said that the emperor's auspicious energy in the Chang'an prison was very strong, so Emperor Wu ordered the execution of all prisoners held in the Zhongdu prison, regardless of their crimes. The palace eunuch Guo Rang ran to the county prison in the middle of the night, intending to kill Xuan as well, but Bing Ji guarded the prison gate and did not allow the executioner to enter, thus saving Xuan's life. Later, there was a general amnesty, and Bing Ji took Xuan to the home of his grandmother, Consort Shi. These events are recorded in "The Biography of Bing Ji" and some other biographies of imperial relatives.
Later, the court ordered Emperor Xuan to be brought to the Yeting for nurturing, and his name was registered in the household registration of the Zongzheng Mansion. Zhang He, the administrator of the Yeting, had previously served the Prince Li, and out of old affection and pity for Emperor Xuan, he took special care of him, even using his own money to hire a teacher for him. When Emperor Xuan grew up, he married the daughter of Xu Guanghan, a minor official. He relied on the influence of Xu Guanghan's family and his grandmother, Lady Shi, to get by. He studied the Book of Songs with Fu Zhongweng from Donghai, showing great intelligence and a love for learning, but he was also into hanging out, cockfighting, and horse racing. He was well-informed about the misdeeds of his neighbors and the performance of officials. He often wandered around the imperial tomb, traveled throughout the Sanfu region, and frequently got lost in the marshes. He particularly liked the area around Duling and Huxian, often staying in Xiadu. When attending court, he lived in Shangguan Li in Chang'an, had hairy legs, and his room was always brightly lit. Every time he bought pastries, the pastry sellers were always so happy, which he found odd.
In April of 74 BC, Emperor Zhao of Han passed away without leaving a son to inherit the throne. The Grand General Huo Guang then asked the Empress to summon Prince Changyi to ascend the throne. On the day of Bingyin in the sixth month, Prince Changyi accepted the imperial seal and the seal of authority, honoring the Empress as Empress Dowager. A few days later, on the day of Guisi, Huo Guang submitted a memorial stating that Prince Changyi's behavior was licentious and requested his removal. For more details, see the *Book of Han*, biographies of Prince Changyi and Huo Guang.
Next, in July, Huo Guang submitted a further proposal, saying: "Proper conduct dictates respecting one's ancestors, which is essential for honoring the family line. Currently, there are no heirs in the imperial clan, so a capable individual should be chosen from the collateral descendants to inherit the throne. The great-grandson of Emperor Xiaowu, Liu Bingyi, was once ordered to be raised in the palace, and now he is eighteen years old. He'd studied the *Shijing*, *Analects*, and *Xiaojing*. He is frugal, kind, and benevolent, and can inherit the throne, serve the ancestors, and benefit the people." The emperor approved his memorial. Officials went to his home, bathed, dressed, and provided him with court robes. He was conveyed in a state carriage to the imperial ancestral temple. On the day of Gengshen, Liu Bingyi entered the Weiyang Palace, paid respects to the Empress Dowager, and was created Marquis of Yangwu. Afterwards, he was presented with the imperial seal and insignia, and he formally ascended the throne and performed the ancestral rites.
On the day of Jisi in the eighth month, Prime Minister Zhang Chang died.
In September, the court granted a general amnesty.
On the day of Renzi in the eleventh month, Emperor Xuan of Han made Lady Xu Empress. The court also rewarded officials and commoners below the princely rank with money, in varying amounts. The Empress Dowager returned to the Changle Palace. The court also began to establish military garrisons.
In January of 73 BC, the court recruited those with over a million in assets in the counties and prefectures to move to Pingling. Envoys were sent to instruct officials of the counties and prefectures, those of two thousand-stone rank and above, to govern justly and with benevolence.
General Huo Guang resigned from his position. The Emperor reappointed him. Based on Huo Guang's contributions in formulating strategies, the Emperor granted him an additional 17,000 households. General Cheqi, Grand Master of the Imperial Palace, and Marquis of Fuping An Shi were also granted 10,000 households. The imperial edict stated: "Former Prime Minister Marquis Anping Zhang Chang and others have served dutifully in their positions, advising together with General Huo and General An Shi, stabilizing the ancestral temples and the state. Unfortunately, their merits were not rewarded before their passing. Now, Zhang Zhong, son of Prime Minister Zhang Chang, as well as Prime Minister Yangping Marquis Zhang Yi, General Duoliao Marquis Zhang Mingyou, former General Longluo Marquis Zhang Zeng, Grand Steward Jianping Marquis Zhang Yannian, Grand Minister Pusi Chang, Adviser Yichun Marquis Tan, Marquis of Dangtu Ping, Marquis of Du Tu Qitang, and Prefect of Changxin Sheng, are all granted additional households, each in varying quantities." Furthermore, the Imperial Inspector Guangming was granted the title of Marquis of Changshui, General Chongguo was appointed as Marquis of Yingping, Grand Minister Yannian was named Marquis of Yangcheng, Prefect Lecheng was titled Marquis of Yuanshi, and Grand Master of the Imperial Palace was promoted to Marquis of Pingqiu. Additionally, Right Fu Fengde, Military Attendant Guo Wu, Court Officer Guang, Imperial Deity Zheng, Grand Herald Xian, Chamberlain Ji, Grand Minister Ji, and Capital Guard Guanghan were all granted the title of Marquis, with Fengde and Wu receiving additional households.
On the day of Gengwu in the fourth month, an earthquake occurred. The Emperor ordered each county to recommend scholar-officials, one person per county.
In the fifth month, a phoenix landed in Jiaodong and Qiancheng regions. The Emperor issued a general amnesty, granting promotions and titles to officials ranging from 2,000 shi officials to marquises, as well as officials of the central government, eunuchs, and officials of 600 shi, with varying ranks from Left Attendant to Wudafu. Every citizen received a higher title, with those who were filial receiving two levels up, and women were granted land, cattle, and wine. Furthermore, taxes for the year were waived.
In the sixth month, the Emperor issued a decree stating: "The former Crown Prince died in Huxian without a posthumous title or a system of sacrifices. It is necessary to discuss the posthumous title and establish a mausoleum for him." The specific details are recorded in the "Biography of the Crown Prince."
In July, the emperor appointed Prince Jian of Yanla as Prince of Guangyang and appointed Hong, the youngest son of Prince Xu of Guangling, as Prince of Gaomi. In the spring of the following year, using the funds from the Water Conservancy Department, Pingling was built, and the people were relocated there to construct houses. The Agriculture Minister, Tian Yannian, committed a crime and took his own life. In May, the emperor issued an edict saying, "Look, I'm just a regular guy, carrying on the family business. I think about the old Emperor Xiaowu all the time. He was a hard worker, a good leader, he beat the Xiongnu, and everyone else fell in line. Peace at the borders, everyone bringing gifts. He started the Imperial Academy, held all the big ceremonies, sorted out the calendar and music, climbed Mount Tai, built the Xuanfang – good stuff kept happening, treasure everywhere! He did so much, it's unbelievable, but his temple music isn't good enough. Let's talk about it!" Then the ministers suggested adding an honorary title to Emperor Xiaowu. On the sixth day of the sixth month, the temple of Emperor Xiaowu was honored as the "Temple of Emperor Shizong," and the music and dance of "Shengde," "Wenshi," and "Wuxing" were played, stipulating that the emperor must be worshipped for generations to come. The counties and states visited by Emperor Wu during his inspections also built temples for him. Every family got a higher rank, and every hundred women received cattle and wine. The Xiongnu were always causing trouble at the border, so the Han army went west to fight the Wusun. The Wusun Kunmi and his princess sent a message saying he'd happily send his best troops against the Xiongnu, but could the Emperor please help his princess?
In autumn, the court mobilized a massive draft of crack troops from the Guan-dong region, selecting officials of the rank of 300 shi or higher, strong and skilled in horseback archery, to join the army. Grand Minister Tian Guangming was appointed General Qilian, Zhao Chongguo became General Pulei, Prefect Tian Shun was appointed General Huya, along with General Fan Mingyou of Duli and former General Han Zeng. In total, five generals led a cavalry of 150,000, with Commander Chang Hui holding the imperial warrant, escorting the Wusun army to march together to attack the Xiongnu.
On the Guihai day in the third year of the reign, Empress Xu died. On the Wuchen day, the five generals led the army to set out from Chang'an.
In May, the army returned triumphantly. General Qilian, Tian Guangming, and General Huya, Tian Shun, were held responsible for their crimes by the court and both took their own lives. Commander Chang Hui led the Wusun army deep into Xiongnu territory, achieving a great victory, and was made a marquis.
That year was marked by severe drought, and many counties suffered greatly, leading to the common people being exempted from paying taxes. Those in the Sanfu region who were experiencing difficulties were temporarily exempted from forced labor until the fourth year.
On the Jichou day in June, Prime Minister Yi passed away.
In the spring of the first month of 69 BC, the emperor announced, "Everyone knows that agriculture is the foundation of the nation! This year's harvest is poor, and I have already sent people to provide relief to the poor. Now I command the palace to reduce food and sacrificial offerings, the imperial music department to reduce the number of musicians, and have them all return to farming. From the prime minister down to the officials, everyone must contribute grain to the state granaries to help the poor. Those who transport grain into the passes by cart or ship will be exempt from paying tariffs."
On the Yimao day in March, Consort Huo was proclaimed Empress. The emperor rewarded everyone from the prime minister down to the officials and clerks with gold, silver, and silk. The rewards varied in amount. A general amnesty was also declared throughout the realm.
On the day of Renyin in April, earthquakes occurred in forty-nine commanderies and counties nationwide, with landslides, the earth cracking open, and flooding in some areas. The emperor decreed, "These disasters are all warnings from the heavens to us! I've inherited my ancestors' legacy, maintained the ancestral temples, and enjoyed the people's support, yet I still haven't brought peace to the land. Recently, earthquakes have occurred in Beihai and Langye, and the ancestral temples have been destroyed. I am very afraid. Prime Minister, Imperial Censor, along with the marquises and second-rank officials, you must consult extensively with Confucian scholars to see if there are any ways to address this, to make up for my shortcomings, and do not hide anything. Order the officials of the three capitals, the Ministry of Rites, and the inner commanderies to each recommend a virtuous and capable official. If there are any laws or regulations that can be modified to appease the people, report them to me. In the areas severely affected by the earthquake, do not collect rent temporarily." A general amnesty was issued. Because the ancestral temples were destroyed, the emperor wore mourning clothes and secluded himself in the main hall for five days.
In May, a phoenix appeared in Anqiu and Chunyu in Beihai.
In autumn, Prince Liu Ji of Guangchuan committed a crime, was deposed, moved to Shangyong, and eventually committed suicide.
In the first month of the first year of Dijie in spring, a comet appeared in the west.
In March, the emperor ordered the fields to be lent to the impoverished for cultivation.
In June, the emperor decreed, "I've heard that Emperor Yao's close ties to his extended family brought stability to the realm. I have received the grace of my ancestors, inherited the foundation of sage wisdom, and have always thought about the royal family members, some of whom have been estranged due to past offenses. If among them there are talented individuals who repent, do good deeds, and accumulate virtue, their royal status will be restored, giving them a fresh start."
In the winter of November, King Liu Yanshou of Chu plotted rebellion and eventually committed suicide.
On the last day of December, a solar eclipse occurred.
In the spring of 74 BC, in the third month, on the day Gengwu, the Grand Marshal Huo Guang passed away. The Emperor issued a decree saying, "Huo Guang, Marquis of Bolou, served Emperor Xiao Wu for over thirty years and assisted Emperor Xiao Zhao for over ten years. He experienced great disasters, always upheld justice, and led the top officials and nobles to establish strategies for stabilizing the country, ensuring peace for the ancestral temples. Thanks to him, the country enjoyed peace and prosperity. His contributions were extremely significant, and I owe him a great debt. I have decided to restore his descendants' titles and estates, which shall not be changed for generations to come. His accomplishments rivaled even those of Xiao He." This is the highest praise the Emperor gave to Huo Guang!
A few months later, in the summer of the fourth month, a phoenix landed in the land of Lu, with many birds following it in flight. The Emperor ordered a general amnesty, a day of universal celebration! However, the good times did not last. In the fifth month, Wang Qian, a high-ranking official, committed a crime and was sentenced to death, dying in prison. Such is life in the court.
The Emperor began to personally handle state affairs while thinking of how to repay the merits of the late General Huo Guang. He reappointed Shan Dan, Marquis of Leping, as the Chief Secretary, and allowed court officials to submit memorials to understand the people's sentiments. The Emperor met with the ministers every five days, listening to reports and assessing their abilities. For those who had merits or outstanding performance among his staff, the Emperor would grant them generous rewards, continuing these rewards to their descendants for generations. The entire court operated in an orderly manner, united from top to bottom, with no slackness.
In March of the second year, the Emperor issued another decree saying: "If merit goes unrewarded and crime unpunished, even sage kings like Yao and Shun cannot govern the world well. Now, Cheng, the magistrate of Jiaodong, has tirelessly increased the number of refugees by more than 80,000, with remarkable achievements. I have specially promoted his official position to 2,000 stones (a high-ranking official position) and granted him the title of Marquis of Guannei." This shows that the Emperor values talents and achievements greatly.
The decree continued: "I pity the poor, the elderly, the infirm, and the widowed. I have previously decreed that they are allowed to borrow public fields and provided them with seeds and food. Now, I will also give them additional fine cloth. Two-thousand-stone officials must ensure their subordinates are properly trained and diligent." This reflects the Emperor's kindness and care for the people.
The Emperor also ordered all counties and states in the country to recommend officials who are honest, capable, and close to the people. On the day of Wushen in the fourth month of summer, the Emperor officially appointed the Crown Prince and once again granted amnesty throughout the land. At the same time, the Emperor rewarded some officials, with the Grand Minister of Ceremonies being appointed as Marquis of Guannei, the Deputy of 2,000 stones being appointed as Right Chief Steward, and all fathers in the country being able to be promoted by one level of title. The Prince of Guangling was rewarded with a thousand pounds of gold, while the other fifteen vassal kings were each rewarded with a hundred pounds of gold, and the eighty-seven marquises in the enfeoffed states were each rewarded with twenty pounds of gold. That's quite a generous handout!
In October, the emperor issued a decree saying, "Last month, on the day of Renshen, an earthquake occurred, and I was deeply troubled. Who can correct my mistakes? Those virtuous officials who are not afraid to offer frank advice should help me make up for my shortcomings without hesitation. My abilities are limited, and I have not been able to comfort the people in distant places, so the border troops have never stopped. Now, additional troops have been sent to garrison, causing prolonged hardship for the people. This is not the way to pacify the world. Therefore, I cancel the orders to station troops for the chariot and cavalry commanders and the right-wing generals." The emperor further decreed, "My unused palaces should be lent to the poor people for use. Palaces and official buildings in various counties and states should no longer be constructed. For those displaced people returning to their hometowns, distribute public land to them, lend them seeds and food, and temporarily refrain from investigating their responsibilities."
In November, the emperor issued a decree saying, "My efforts to uplift the people have been insufficient. I work tirelessly, always worrying about the people of the world, never forgetting the suffering of the common people. I am afraid of failing to live up to the holy virtues of the late emperor, so I have always selected virtuous and upright people to get close to the people. Despite my years of effort, social harmony remains elusive. As the ancients wisely said, 'Filial piety and fraternal respect are the bedrock of a benevolent society!' Therefore, I order each county to recommend a person who is filial to their parents, loving to their siblings, and of noble character."
In December, the court established four new Tingwei Ping (a type of judicial official) officials, with a rank of 600 stones (a unit of rank/salary). At the same time, Wenshan County was abolished and merged into Shu County.
In the fourth year of February, the emperor conferred the title of Boping Jun (a title of nobility) to his maternal grandmother, and also conferred the title of Marquis to the great-grandson of the late Marquis Xiao He, named Jianshi (a title of nobility). The emperor issued a decree saying, "Using filial piety to guide the people will bring stability to the world. Some people are currently experiencing bereavement or natural disasters, but the government's forced labor prevents them from burying their loved ones, hurting the hearts of filial sons. I sympathize with them. Starting from now, those mourning parents or grandparents will be exempt from compulsory labor, allowing them to properly observe their filial duties."
In May, the emperor decreed, "The love between father and son, the way of husband and wife, is part of human nature. Even in times of disaster, one should protect each other and survive. True love is the greatest kindness; how could anyone go against that? From now on, those who hide their parents from their kids, wives from their husbands, and grandchildren from their grandparents will not be held accountable. But parents who hide their kids, husbands who hide their wives, and grandparents who hide their grandkids shall be sentenced to death and referred to the court for handling."
Finally, the emperor appointed the grandson of Prince Huai of Guangchuan as Prince of Guangchuan.
It is said that in the seventh month of autumn, Grand Marshal Huo Yu actually wanted to rebel! The emperor issued a decree saying, "Some time ago, clerk Zhang She from the Eastern Weaving Bureau informed the wealthy Li Jing of Wei County that Huo Yun was plotting a rebellion. Because Huo Yun is a relative of the current Grand General, I let it slide because of our history, thinking he would reform himself. Unexpectedly, now Grand Marshal Huo Yu, his mother, Lady Xuancheng, and his brothers and sisters, including Huo Yun, Huo Shan, and several of his brothers-in-law, such as General Fan Mingyou, Prefect Deng Guanghai, Lang Jiang Ren Sheng, Qiduwei Zhao Ping, and a person from Chang'an named Feng Yin, actually conspired to rebel together! To make things worse, Huo Yu's mother had previously poisoned Empress Dowager Gong Ai and also wanted to poison the crown prince, which is incredibly bold, threatening the entire royal family and the nation! These traitors' crimes are clear, and they'll all pay! Those officials who were deceived by the Huo family and have not yet been discovered, I have pardoned them all."
In August, the empress Huo was deposed.
In September, the emperor issued another decree saying, "I've seen how hard things are for my people. Many local officials aren't doing their jobs, and some are even corrupt and taking bribes, making life miserable for my people. It breaks my heart! Many places have also experienced floods this year, and I have already ordered disaster relief. Salt is a necessity for the people, yet the price of salt is so high now, making life even more difficult. Therefore, I have ordered a reduction in the price of salt nationwide."
He then continued, "No one can undo death, and no one's punishment can be reversed. This has always been emphasized by the late emperor, but the officials below have not adhered to it. Now, many detained individuals have died in prisons from torture, starvation, and freezing, which is inhuman! I am deeply saddened by this! Every county must report annually the names, origins, identities, and addresses of those who have died in prison from torture, starvation, and freezing. The Prime Minister and the Imperial Censor will assess and then report to me."
In December, Prince Qinghe committed a crime, was stripped of his title, and sent to Fangling.
In the first year of Yuankang, Du Dong was chosen as the imperial tomb, Du County was renamed Du Ling, and the Prime Minister, generals, marquises, officials (high-ranking officials), and the wealthiest individuals were all moved to Du Ling.
In March, the emperor decreed, "A few days ago, phoenixes appeared in Mount Tai and Chenliu, and sweet dew fell in the Palace of Weiyang. I haven't yet fully lived up to my late father's legacy, bringing peace to the people and ensuring harmony with Heaven and the seasons. I work diligently day and night, and I dare not be proud or complacent. I frequently reflect on myself and deeply feel the heavy responsibility. Like the Book of Documents says, 'When the phoenix comes, the subordinate ministers will be harmonious.' Therefore, I have decided to grant amnesty to all prisoners in the world, and to promote diligent officials. Officials ranking from 600 to 2000 shi will get a promotion, officials from langzhong to wudafu will be promoted two levels, common people will be promoted one level, and every hundred households of women will receive a gift of cattle and wine. Additionally, there'll be extra cloth for the needy—widows, widowers, orphans, the elderly, those who've shown filial piety, and hardworking farmers. And forget about paying back those old loans."
In May, summer came, and the emperor built an ancestral temple for his father. He also expanded the jurisdiction of the Fengming Garden and established Fengming County.
I've reinstated the ancestral rites for 136 families descended from Zhou Bo, Marquis of Jiang, ensuring their continuation for generations to come. If a family line dies out, collateral relatives will continue the rites.
In August, autumn arrived, and the emperor decreed again, "I'm still learning the Six Arts and the Way, so things like the weather haven't been cooperating lately. Therefore, I want to widely select officials and people. I'll be selecting two people from each category—officials and commoners alike—who show strong moral character, knowledge of Confucianism, and understanding of the ancients' wisdom. High-ranking officials (above 2000 shi) will get one representative each."
In winter, the Jianzhang Weiwei was established.
In the first month of the second year, spring arrived, and the emperor decreed, "The Book of Documents says, 'King Wen's laws had no pardons,' but even with all the hard work, things aren't perfect yet, and that worries me! So I'm granting another amnesty, and urging everyone to work even harder—let's start fresh!"
On the second month's Yichou day, the emperor appointed Wang Shi as the empress and rewarded officials from the prime minister down to the lowest-ranking officials with money and silk, each receiving different amounts.
In the third month, due to the appearance of phoenix and heavenly dew, the emperor issued another decree, promoting officials nationwide by two levels, the common people by one level, granting wine and cattle to every hundred women's households, and providing cloth and silk to widows, widowers, orphans, and the elderly.
In the fifth month, the emperor issued a decree saying: "Prisons are vital; they're meant to stop wrongdoing and protect the people. Only officials who can keep the living without complaints and the deceased without regrets can be considered good officials. However, some officials are manipulating the law, deliberately misinterpreting legal provisions, applying different standards and exaggerating facts to unjustly increase charges. Reports are not truthful, and I have no way to know the truth. This is my oversight, as well as the dereliction of duty of the officials. What should the people do? All officials of the second rank must carefully examine their subordinates and not employ such people. Officials must enforce the law fairly. If someone arbitrarily imposes forced labor, decorates their residence and carriages, and exaggerates the cost of entertaining guests, violating their authority and laws to seek fame, it is like walking on thin ice, waiting for the sun to come out—very dangerous! Many places in the world are currently suffering from the disaster of epidemics, and I am very sympathetic. I command that the counties and prefectures severely affected by the disaster should not collect taxes this year."
Next, the emperor issued another decree: "I have heard that the titles of ancient emperors were difficult to know but easy to avoid taboos. Now many people have been punished for violating taboos by submitting memorials, and I sympathize with them. Therefore, I will amend the rules on taboos. Those who have violated taboos before the promulgation of previous laws shall be pardoned."
In winter, the Prefect of Jingzhao, Zhao Guanghan, committed a crime and was sentenced to be beheaded.
In the spring of the third year, because the celestial birds had gathered multiple times on Mount Tai, the Emperor rewarded kings, prime ministers, generals, marquises, and second-rank officials with gold, and lower-ranking officials and attendants with silk, each receiving rewards of different levels. Officials across the country were promoted by two ranks, the common people by one rank, and every hundred households of women received cattle and wine; widowers, widows, orphans, the elderly living alone, and the very elderly also received silk.
In the third month, the Emperor issued a decree saying, "I have heard that even when the great elephant committed a crime, Emperor Shun still rewarded it, showing no distinction even among close relatives. So, let's make the late King of Changyi, He, the Marquis of Haihun!"
The Emperor further decreed, "Back when I was nothing, Bing Ji, the Grand Minister of Justice, and Generals of the Household Shi Zeng and Shi Xuan, Commandant of Changle Wei Xu Shun, and Grand Master of Splendor Xu Yanshou all showed me great favor. Zhang He, the late Prefect of the Imperial Guards, tutored me in the classics and histories, showing exceptional kindness and great merit. As the Book of Songs says, 'No favor goes unrewarded.' Peng Zu, He's son, grandson, Grand Master, and General, is appointed Marquis of Yangdu, with He being posthumously named Marquis of Yangdu Ai. Bing Ji, Shi Zeng, Shi Xuan, Xu Shun, and Xu Yanshou are all appointed as marquises. From county magistrates to prison guards, all my old friends who had previously helped me will be rewarded with official positions, land, and wealth, based on the depth of their favor."
In the sixth month, the Emperor ordered, "In the previous summer, celestial birds appeared in Yongzhou. This spring, countless brilliantly colored birds flew over the subordinate counties, circling and dancing in the sky, seemingly wanting to land but never doing so. I hereby order that in the Three Frontiers region, it is forbidden to disturb bird nests, take bird eggs during spring and summer, or shoot down flying birds."
Then, the Emperor made his son Qin the Prince of Huaiyang.
In the fourth year of the reign, the Emperor decreed: "I believe that those who are old and weak, have lost their teeth, are weak in blood, and no longer have cruel intentions, but now some are being arrested and thrown into prison for minor reasons, unable to end their days peacefully. I have great compassion for them. From now on, elderly people over the age of eighty, if not accused of false charges or killing others, will not be held accountable for other crimes."
The Emperor sent the Palace Attendant Qiang and eleven others to tour the country, comfort the elderly, assess local conditions and the people's well-being, evaluate the merits and demerits of officials, and select talented and virtuous individuals.
In the second month, Huo Zhongshi and others in Hedong plotted rebellion and were executed.
In the third month, the Emperor decreed: "Recently, countless colorful divine birds have gathered at Changle Palace, Weiyang Palace, Beigong, Gaoding Palace, Ganquan Palace, Taizhi Hall, and Shanglin Park. My virtues are insufficient, yet I repeatedly receive auspicious signs, which are not my own doing. Therefore, officials across the country will be rewarded with a two-level promotion in title, the people with a one-level promotion, and women of every hundred households with cattle and wine. In addition, the Three Elders, exemplary sons, and hardworking farmers will each be rewarded with two pieces of cloth, while widows, widowers, and orphans will each receive one piece of cloth."
In August, the Emperor bestowed one hundred catties of gold upon the son of the former prefect of Youfufeng for his sacrifice. He also rewarded the widows of the meritorious officials with twenty catties of gold each.
On the day of Bingyin, Grand Marshal General An Shi passed away.
These years have seen a bumper harvest, with grain prices as low as five qian per stone.
In the first month of the first year of the Imperial Era, the emperor went to Ganquan to sacrifice to the heavens, and in the third month, he went to Hedong to sacrifice to the earth. The emperor issued a decree saying: "I've inherited the foundation of my ancestors and have been diligently governing the country, but there are still many things I haven't understood. Since the fourth year of Yuankang, there have been abundant harvests everywhere, auspicious signs have appeared, and the Imperial Era has also gathered. Nine stalks of golden lingzhi have grown in the bronze pool of *Handen Hall*. Jiu Zhen County has presented unusual creatures, and the Southern Province has obtained treasures like white tigers and phoenixes. I'm mediocre in talent and feel uneasy in the face of these auspicious signs, so I'm being even more cautious and praying for the blessings of the heavens for the people. When I inspected the east side of the Yellow River, the weather was clear, and there were divine fish leaping in the river. When I arrived at the Longevity Palace, the Imperial Era gathered again. My conduct is insufficient, and I'm worried that I'm not competent, so I've decided to declare the next five years as the first year of the Imperial Era. At the same time, hardworking officials across the land get a two-rank promotion, the people get a one-rank promotion, and every hundred households of women get cattle and wine. Widows, orphans, and the old get cloth and silk. All outstanding loans are forgiven, and no more land taxes in the areas I visited."
The Western Qiang have rebelled, so the emperor called up every available soldier: convicts from the three border regions and the capital, archers, orphaned imperial guardsmen, Hu and Yue cavalry, and elite troops from across the empire – from Sanhe, Yingchuan, Pei, Huaiyang, and Runan, along with cavalry and Qiang horsemen from Jincheng, Longxi, Tianshui, Anding, Beidi, and Shangjun. They were all marching to Jincheng to put down the rebellion.
In April, the emperor sent General Zhao Chongguo and General Xu Yanshou to subdue the Western Qiang. In June, a comet appeared in the east. The emperor immediately appointed Xin Wuxian, the Prefect of Jiuquan, as the General to defeat the Qiang, leading an army with Zhao Chongguo and Xu Yanshou. The emperor decreed, "This military operation will require soldiers to endure hardships and logistical difficulties; therefore, all vassal kings, marquises, and other high-ranking officials who have served at court for two years are temporarily excused from attending court."
In autumn, the emperor rewarded 100 jin (approximately 60 kilograms) of gold to the son of the late Grand Minister Zhu Yi for ancestral sacrifices. General Zhao Chongguo proposed the strategy of military colonization, detailed in "The Biography of Chongguo."
In the second year in February, the emperor decreed, "Last month, on the Yichou day, a phoenix and sweet dew descended upon the capital, followed by thousands of birds. Although my virtues are lacking, I have received blessings from heaven multiple times. I will work harder and not slack off; therefore, I grant amnesty throughout the realm!"
In May, the rebellion of the Qiang people was quelled, with the execution of the rebel leaders Yang Yu and Qiu Feishou. The court established a vassal state in Jincheng and resettled surrendered Qiang people.
In autumn, the Xiongnu Dayu King surrendered with over ten thousand soldiers to the Han court. The court sent the Western Regions Cavalry Captain Zheng Ji to welcome the Dayu King and also defeated the Kingdom of Cheshi. Both were richly rewarded.
In September, the Inspector of the Imperial Censorate, Gai Kuan, committed a crime and was questioned by the court, eventually taking his own life. The incident highlights the dangers of court life.
The Xiongnu Chanyu sent a prominent envoy to pay tribute and celebrate the new year, signaling a reconciliation with the Han court and finally an end to warfare!
In the third year of spring, the emperor began the construction of the Le You Garden, which was a costly undertaking!
On the day of Bingwu in March, the Prime Minister died unexpectedly. Oh, the higher the position, the greater the responsibility and pressure!
In autumn, the Emperor put out a decree saying, "If officials aren't honest and fair, the country's governance will decline. Right now, the grassroots officials are very diligent, but their salaries are too low. It's tough to keep them from skimming off the top! So, let's raise the salaries of officials below a certain rank by fifteen!" Sounds like the Emperor had the people's best interests at heart!
In the fourth year of the second month, the Emperor issued another decree saying, "Recently, the Phoenix and heavenly dew have both descended on the capital; this is an auspicious sign! We must properly worship the Five Emperors and ancient sages, praying for heaven's blessing for the peace and happiness of the people. The phoenixes flew in groups and landed around the altar, shining brightly during the worship—it was amazing! That'll bring good fortune to everyone! Therefore, amnesty is granted to all, titles are bestowed upon the people, women are given cattle and wine, and widows and the elderly are given silk!"
In April, the Prefect of Yingchuan, Huang Ba, was promoted to Zhong Er Qian Shi due to his outstanding achievements and was also granted the title of Marquis of Guannei, along with a reward of about 125 pounds of gold! At the same time, officials and citizens of Yingchuan with good conduct were also rewarded, diligent farmers received rewards, and chaste women and filial daughters were recognized as well.
The Emperor also ordered each county to recommend virtuous and people-loving officials, each recommending one person.
In May, the Xiongnu Chanyu sent his brother Huliu Ruo Wang to meet the Emperor.
In October, the Phoenix appeared eleven times at Duling; this is truly an auspicious sign!
In November, the Prefect of Henan, Yan Yannian, committed a crime and was executed. Ah, the officialdom is like a battlefield!
In December, the Phoenix appeared again in Shanglin Park.
In the first month of the first year of Wu Feng, the Emperor went to Ganquan to worship Taizhi.
The Crown Prince held his coronation ceremony. The Empress Dowager rewarded the Prime Minister, generals, marquises, Zhong Er Qian Shi officials, and others with silk—one hundred rolls each; the wives of the officials received eighty rolls, and the ladies received sixty rolls. The sons of the marquises were also given the title of Wudafu, and the sons who observed filial piety for their fathers were promoted in title.
In the summer, the emperor pardoned the prisoners who were building the mausoleum at Du Ling. On the first of December, there was a solar eclipse. Han Yanshou was executed for his crimes. In the spring of the second year, in the third month, the emperor went to Yongzhou to worship the Five Fairs. On the day of the fourth month of summer, General Zeng, the Commander of the Imperial Guard, died. In the autumn of the eighth month, the emperor issued a decree saying, "Marriage is one of the most important things in life; weddings are celebrations of our traditions. Many county officials now arbitrarily set rules, prohibiting the common people from getting married and holding banquets to celebrate. This will lead to the decline of local etiquette, and the common people will have no joy. This is not the right way to guide the people. Isn't it said in the Book of Songs? 'When the people lose virtue, it is because of the mistakes in governance.' Let's not make things so difficult for our people!" In the winter of the eleventh month, the Xiongnu Chanyu Hushoulei surrendered with his men and horses, and the emperor appointed him as a marquis. In the twelfth month, Marquis Pingtong, Yang Yun, who had previously made mistakes during his tenure as Grand Master of the Palace Attendants, was dismissed from his post and demoted to a commoner. He still didn't repent, complained all day, and acted rebelliously, and in the end, he was executed. On the day of the first month of the third year, Prime Minister Ji died.
In March, I went to Hedong to worship the Earth God. I issued a decree saying, "In the past, the Xiongnu frequently invaded the borders, causing much suffering to the people. Since I inherited the throne, I have not been able to pacify the Xiongnu. The former Chanyu Xulun Quan requested peace, but later fell ill and died. The Righteous King Tuqitang succeeded him. However, his ministers supported the son of Chanyu Xulun Quan as Chanyu Huhanye and killed Tuqitang. The leaders of various tribes declared themselves kings, splitting into five Chanyus and attacking each other, resulting in a death toll in the tens of thousands, with livestock losses of eighty to ninety percent. The people were hungry and cold, fighting over food, even resorting to desperate measures for food. The situation was extremely chaotic. Later, the Chanyu's wife, children, brothers, as well as Hushili Chanyu, various vassals, Yuyizhizi, Qiequ, and other generals below the rank of Danghu, along with more than fifty thousand people, surrendered, expressing their willingness to submit to the court. The Chanyu also pledged allegiance and sent his brother with gifts to meet me. Since the first month, the northern border has been calm, without any wars. I fasted and prayed, worshiping the heavens and earth in the suburbs, as well as the Earth God. The divine light appeared, some rising from the valleys, illuminating the entire palace for more than ten quarters of an hour. Divine dew fell, and divine birds flew in. I have ordered officials to report this to the heavens, earth, and ancestral temples. On the day of Xinchou in March, the phoenix flew to the tree in the eastern gate of Changle Palace, staying for a while before flying away. Its feathers were colorful, staying for over ten quarters of an hour, witnessed by many officials and people. My abilities are limited, and I fear I cannot bear this heavy responsibility. The appearance of these auspicious signs is a gift from the heavens. As stated in the Shujing, 'Even in times of peace, one must not slack off, but continue to work diligently.' I urge all ministers to take this as a warning! Now, I decree to reduce taxes nationwide, pardon criminals below the death penalty, grant the people one rank of nobility, provide women with cattle and wine, and I also decree a five-day national feast, along with additional cloth and silk for widows, widowers, orphans, and the elderly."
We made Xihe and Beidi into protectorates to settle the surrendered Xiongnu people. In the fourth year of the reign, in the first month, Prince Guangling Xu committed suicide after being implicated in a crime. The Xiongnu Chanyu sent his brother, King Guli, to pay tribute and serve me. Because there is no more war on the border, the number of border soldiers has been reduced by about twenty percent. The Grand Minister of Agriculture, Geng Shouchang, suggested establishing a Changping granary to supply the northern border and reduce transportation difficulties. I appointed him as the Marquis of Guannei.
On the last day of the fourth month, there was a solar eclipse. The emperor said, "Looks like the heavens are sending a message – it's my fault, and those underlings aren't doing their jobs!" He then sent people to ask the common people about their grievances and sent the Prime Minister, Imperial Censor, and twenty-four officials to investigate injustices and identify areas with oppressive rule requiring reform.
In the first month of the first year of Ganlu, the emperor went to Ganquan Palace to make sacrifices and also went to Taizhi to worship the heavens. The Xiongnu Chanyu Hu Hanxie sent his son, Prince Yuxian, to serve as an attendant. On the Dingsi day of the second month, General of Chariots and Cavalry Yanshou passed away. In the fourth month, a yellow dragon appeared in Xinfeng. On the Bingshen day, the Retired Emperor's temple burned down. On the Jiachen day, Emperor Xiaowen's ancestral shrine was destroyed by fire. The emperor wore mourning clothes for five days. In the winter, the Xiongnu Chanyu sent his brother, Prince Yuxian, to pay his respects.
In the first month of the second year, the emperor appointed his son Liu Xiao as the Prince of Dingtao. The emperor issued a decree saying, "We've had all sorts of good luck lately—phoenixes, sweet dew, a yellow dragon, even the Ganquan spring's flowing again, and the dead trees are budding! This is truly a good omen!" So he declared a general amnesty, cut taxes by 30%, and showered the nobles and high officials with gold, silver, and jewels—everyone got something different. Every family got a bump up in social standing, and for every hundred households of women, we distributed cattle and wine, while widows, widowers, orphans, and elderly folks received cloth.
In April, the emperor sent the guard captain Lu to lead the army to attack Zhuyai. In September, the emperor appointed his son Liu Yu as the Prince of Dongping. In December, the emperor went to stay at the Yuguang in Fuyang Palace.
The Xiongnu Chanyu showed up at Wuyuan Pass, saying he wanted to bring gifts to meet the emperor in the first month. The emperor asked the ministers to discuss how to handle this matter. The ministers all said, "Our great emperor is a good and just man. He always puts things in order: the capital first, then the rest of the country, and finally, the barbarians on the border. Like the Book of Songs says, 'Follow the rules, and everything will go smoothly.' Your imperial goodness reaches everywhere. The Xiongnu Chanyu's even coming to pay his respects—that's unheard of! The Chanyu isn't our officially recognized ruler; he's a visiting guest. We should treat him like a prince, letting him call himself a subject, bow, and pay respects, with a status below that of the princes."
The emperor said, "I've heard the old emperors weren't always so strict about the rules, and we don't have to be either. Now that the Xiongnu Chanyu claims to be our northern vassal and is coming to pay respects in the first month, it’s my lack of virtue that hasn’t made the world submit to me. So let's treat him like a VIP guest—better than a prince!"
In the third year of the reign, the emperor went to Ganquan to offer sacrifices and also went to Taizhi to worship the heavens. The Xiongnu Chanyu came to court with his officials, claiming to be a vassal and did not dare to address the emperor directly. The emperor rewarded him with imperial seals and other insignia, hats, clothes, chariots, horses, gold, brocade, silk, and other items. The emperor also ordered the officials to arrange for the Chanyu's residence in Chang'an, allowing him to stay in Changping. The emperor himself moved from Ganquan to Chiyang Palace. When the emperor arrived at Changping Slope, he ordered the Chanyu not to come to pay respects. All the officials waiting at the gate came out to watch, with thousands of chiefs and dignitaries from the surrounding tribes welcoming him, lining up on both sides of the road. When the emperor reached Weiqiao, cries of "Wan Sui!" (Ten Thousand Years!) filled the air. The Chanyu arrived at his residence. The emperor hosted a banquet for the Chanyu at Jianzhang Palace and showed him treasures.
In the second month, the Chanyu returned. The emperor sent the Wei of Changle, Marquis of Gaochang, the Commandant of Chariots, Chang, and the Commandant of Cavalry, Hu, to escort the Chanyu with sixteen thousand cavalry. The Chanyu stayed in guest palaces in Muna and Guanglu City. The emperor also ordered food to be distributed on the northern border. Zhizhi Chanyu fled, and the Xiongnu region finally stabilized.
The emperor said, "Recently, a phoenix appeared in Xinchai, surrounded by a flock of tens of thousands of birds! Reward the Prefect of Runan with one hundred bolts of silk, and distribute rewards to elders, exemplary sons, hardworking farmers, and widows and orphans in Xinchai. Second-rank noble titles were bestowed upon the populace. Taxes are exempted this year."
In the third month of Ji Chou, the Prime Minister died.
The emperor ordered the Confucian scholars to discuss the differences in the Five Classics, and the Crown Prince and Grand Tutor Xiao Wangzhi submitted their opinions together, with the emperor making the final decision. It was decided to use the Liangqiu version of the Book of Changes, the Xiaohou version of the Book of Documents, and the Guliang version of the Spring and Autumn Annals as standard textbooks.
In winter, the Princess of Wusun was married.
In the summer of the fourth year, King Guangchuan Liu Haiyang was deposed and exiled to Fangling for his crimes.
On the day of Dingmao in October, the Xuan Shi Pavilion in the Weiyang Palace caught fire.
In the first month of the first year of the Huanglong era, the emperor went to Ganquan Palace on a pleasure trip and made sacrifices to Heaven and Earth at Taizhi.
The Xiongnu Chanyu Huhanye came to see the emperor, and the emperor rewarded him with the same lavish generosity as before. In the second month, the Chanyu returned to his country.
The emperor issued a decree saying, "I have heard that in ancient times, during the prosperous era, the ruler and his ministers were united in purpose, and they could handle matters appropriately. Therefore, there was harmony between high and low, and the country was peaceful. Their accomplishments were truly remarkable! I am not wise enough and have repeatedly issued edicts advising officials to implement lenient policies and show compassion for the suffering of the people, striving to emulate the prosperous era of the Three Kings and inherit the merits of the previous emperors. But now, some officials mistake inaction against evil for leniency, condone criminals as not being harsh, and even treat brutal men as virtuous, all of which have missed the mark. With such flawed teachings, how could things not be absurd? Now the world is peaceful with no troubles, corvée labor has been reduced, there is no war, yet the people are very poor, and thieves are rampant. What is the reason for this? The reported account books are all inflated figures to avoid taxes. The three dukes ignore this; who can I trust? Petitions for reduced military spending and labor demands will be rejected. The Imperial Censor must examine the account books, investigate suspicious entries, and prevent the confusion of truth and falsehood."
In March, there was a star appearing near Wang Liang and the Ge Dao, entering the Purple Palace. (This is an astronomical phenomenon record, not translated)
In April, the emperor issued a decree saying, "Select honest officials; I truly want to obtain genuine talents. Officials with salaries of 600 shi or more, if they commit a crime, must first petition for punishment. Their high salaries reflect their supposed abilities. From now on, they will no longer be considered for promotion."
On the day of Jiaxu in December, the emperor passed away in the Weiyang Palace. On the day of Guisi, the Empress Dowager was honored as the Grand Empress Dowager.
During the reign of Emperor Xuan of Han, man, those were the good old days! "Emperor Xuan was all about fair play – rewards and punishments were clear, and every official, whether they were into politics, literature, or law, was top-notch." Rewards and punishments were fair and square, the government ran like a well-oiled machine, and every official was a top performer. And get this – even the tech guys were way better than under Emperors Yuan and Cheng! "Their skills and craftsmanship blew away anything from the Yuan and Cheng eras," this shows that the common people lived and worked in peace, and the officials were diligent and responsible.
Those Xiongnu were always stirring up trouble. Emperor Xuan's strategy was simple: crush the rebels, and scare the Xiongnu into submission. The Xiongnu's leader was so scared, he came crawling to pay tribute and swear loyalty! "The Xiongnu leader, humbled and terrified, bowed down and pledged his loyalty," this was quite imposing! Emperor Xuan of Han's achievements not only made his ancestors proud but also left a legacy that lasted for generations. "He was a true game-changer, right up there with the best of the Zhou and Shang dynasties!" This guy was a total legend, right up there with King Tang and King Xuan!
