Song+Dynasty

Song Dynasty (960-1279)

After the fall of the Tang Dynasty, China was, for years, politically unstable. Then, in 960, a general named Zhao Kuang-yin seized power, and started a dynasty that would run strong for 300 years.



Zhao Kuang-yin had been a leading general of the previous dynasty, Hou Zhuo. In 959, emperor Shi Zong died, leaving a 7 year old heir. Kuang-yin, like many others, believed that the people needed a stronger leader than what a child could provide. A rumor started in 960, that the northern Khitan were going to invade the Hou Zhuo. Zhao Kuang-yin was assigned to direct the counter attack. He set off with his troops. The next morning, under the direction of Kuang-yin's brother and secretary, the troops surrounded their general's tent and, cheering, dressed him in yellow robes, declaring him their emperor. They marched back to the capital of Kaifeng and peacefully usurped the throne.

In the years to come, the Song would conquer many cities in southern China, and make peace deals with the stronger nations up north. Zhao Kuang-yin would reign for 16 years over a prosperous China. For more information on Zhao Kuang-yin, use [|this link].