Hanlin Academy of the Ming Dynasty

Timeline

1. 1368–1402Nanjing · JiangsuIn the early Ming, the Hanlin Academy was established in Nanjing, with posts such as academician, reader-in-waiting, and lecturer-in-waiting, responsible for drafting edicts, compiling state histories, and lecturing at the classics lectures, serving as an important literary and advisory body beside the emperor.
2. 1421–1430Beijing · North ChinaAfter the Yongle emperor moved the capital, the Hanlin Academy relocated to Beijing; most Grand Secretariat Grand Secretaries were men of Hanlin background, and the Hanlin became a training ground for future chancellors, participating in draft endorsements and major policy decisions.
3. 1465–1644Beijing Hanlin Academy · BeijingThe Ming developed a system of selecting shujishi from newly minted jinshi to study further in the Hanlin Academy; after three years of instruction they were appointed to office, further consolidating the Hanlin Academy's position as a training base for central civil officials.