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Zhang Bangchang

Type Figure Region China Time c. 1081–1127 Also known as Zhang Yuanji

Zhang Bangchang (c. 1081–1127), a late Northern Song minister. After the Jingkang Incident, the Jin installed him as emperor of the puppet Chu state,…

Timeline

  1. 1110–1126Dongping Prefecture · Tai'an CityZhang Bangchang passed the jinshi examination and served in prefectures and counties, rising to Minister of Revenue before Jingkang. During the Jin siege of Bianjing he took part in peace negotiations, and was detained by the Jin as a hostage together with Prince Kang Zhao Gou and others.
  2. 1127Eastern Capital Kaifeng Prefecture · Kaifeng CityIn March 1127, Emperor Taizong of Jin installed Zhang Bangchang as emperor, with the state name Great Chu and the capital at Bianjing. Though ordered to ascend the throne, Zhang avoided the inner chambers and did not sit in the main hall, secretly maintaining contact with former Song officials. After Emperor Gaozong of Song acceded at Nanjing in May, Zhang abdicated; the puppet Chu lasted only thirty-odd days.
  3. 1127Tanzhou · Changsha CityAfter abdicating, Zhang Bangchang was summoned by Gaozong to Nanjing, then demoted to Tanzhou. In September he was ordered to death on charges of deceiving the sovereign and usurping the throne. His death was closely tied to the dispute over Song legitimacy during the Jingkang Incident and Gaozong's suspicion of former northern officials.

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