Bao Zheng

Timeline

1. 1027–1036Hefei · Hefei CountyPassed the jinshi examination in the fifth Tiansheng year, appointed as reviewer of the Court of Judicial Review and magistrate of Jianchang, but declined citing his aged parents; transferred to supervise taxes in Hezhou but also resigned to care for them. After both parents died in succession he kept vigil at their graves, only re-entering service when mourning ended early in the Jingyou era.
2. 1037–1039Tianchang County · Tianchang CountyAppointed magistrate of Tianchang in the fourth Jingyou year, his first local post with real authority after mourning. He governed effectively and was known for integrity, laying the foundation for later promotion.
3. 1040–1042Duanzhou · DuanzhouTransferred from Tianchang to Duanzhou in the first Kangding year, his first prefectural office. He curbed excessive exactions in tribute inkstones, limiting production to the tribute quota; built dikes, dug the Bao Gong Well, founded the Xingyan Academy and the Fengji Granary, and left office without taking a single inkstone, earning a notable reputation.
4. 1043–1062Bianjing (Kaifeng) · Eastern Capital Kaifeng PrefectureAfter completing his term in Duanzhou he entered the capital, serving successively as censor, judge of the Revenue Division of the Three Offices, transport commissioner, director of the Remonstrance Bureau, acting prefect of Kaifeng, and commissioner of the Three Offices, repeatedly impeaching powerful figures. He became vice commissioner of the Bureau of Military Affairs in the sixth Jiayou year and died the following year.