Late Yuan court power struggle

Timeline

1. 1355–1357Dadu · North ChinaAfter the Battle of Gaoyou, Emperor Shun stripped Tuotuo of military command; the loss of a capable minister left central decision-making in chaos. Powerful officials like Hama and Toghto Temür seized the opportunity, with court affairs controlled by a few favorites and military-civil commands inconsistent.
2. 1357–1358Dadu · North ChinaEmperor Shun and Crown Prince Ayushiridara openly clashed over state affairs and the succession, each gathering followers and dismissing the other's trusted officials. The court split into imperial and princely factions, severely weakening coordination against the Red Turban Army.
3. 1358–1359Dadu · North ChinaOfficials like Hama monopolized court affairs, even plotting an inner abdication, provoking greater political upheaval. Frequent personnel changes disrupted relief and military pay, while regional warlords and Semu and Mongol nobles harbored their own ambitions; the Yuan central authority existed in name only.