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Tong Guan

Type Figure Region China Time 1054–1126 Also known as Grand Councillor Tong、Prince of Guangyang

Tong Guan (1054–1126) was a eunuch of the Northern Song who served from Shenzong through Qinzong.…

Timeline

  1. 1096–1100Xi Prefecture · Qinfeng CircuitDuring the Shaosheng era he was sent on missions to Western Xia and inspected military conditions along the Xihe Circuit. Familiar with northwestern defenses and skilled in archery and frontier affairs, he gradually gained court trust, laying the foundation for his favor at the end of the Yuanfu era.
  2. 1102–1125Kaifeng · Kaifeng PrefectureUnder Huizong he was repeatedly promoted to Grand Councillor, setting a precedent for eunuchs commanding armies, and formed a faction with Cai Jing. During the Xuanhe era he directed the joint Jin-Song campaign against Liao, fled after defeat, yet retained military power for long, ultimately leaving the frontier defenses hollow.

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