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First siege of Kaifeng

Type Event Region Kaifeng Time 1126

In 1126, Jin commander Wanyan Zongwang led the eastern army south to the Northern Song capital Kaifeng;…

Timeline

  1. 1126Kaifeng · HenanIn early 1126, Zongwang's eastern Jin army broke through Song defenses and drove straight for Kaifeng. Emperor Huizong had already abdicated to crown prince Zhao Huan (Emperor Qinzong) and fled south, leaving the city in panic.
  2. 1126Kaifeng · HenanLi Gang was appointed overall commander of the defense, tidying up the city's fortifications, boosting morale, and organizing soldiers and civilians to repel repeated Jin assaults; the Jin besieged the city for over a month without breaching it.
  3. 1126Kaifeng · HenanThe Song court's peace faction gained the upper hand, sending envoys to negotiate with Jin, promising to cede three garrisons and pay annual tribute; the Jin then lifted the siege and withdrew north. Li Gang was later ousted from court, and Northern Song missed its chance to reorganize and prepare.

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