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Zhu Qizhen

Type Figure Region China Time 1427–1464 Also known as Emperor Yingzong of Ming、Emperor Zhengtong、Emperor Tianshun、Qizhen

Zhu Qizhen (1427–1464), the sixth and eighth Ming emperor with the temple name Yingzong, ascended the throne aged eight in 1435 under the Zhengtong e…

Timeline

  1. 1431–1435Beijing · North ChinaThe eldest son of the Xuande Emperor, he was made crown prince during the Xuande era, receiving education in classics, history, and ritual in the palace in preparation for his early accession.
  2. 1436–1440Beijing · North ChinaHe ascended the throne in the tenth year of Xuande under the Zhengtong era name. Ruling as a child, he was assisted by senior ministers such as the Three Yangs and the empress dowager; growing up between 1436 and 1440, the court largely continued the legacy of the Renzong and Xuande eras.
  3. 1449–1457Oirat · OiratIn the fourteenth year of Zhengtong he personally campaigned against the Oirats and was defeated and captured at Tumu Fortress; during the Jingtai era he returned south as Grand Emperor and was confined, until the Gate Restoration of the first year of Tianshun restored him.
  4. 1457–1464Beijing · North ChinaThrough the Gate Restoration in the first year of Tianshun he regained the throne, changing the era name to Tianshun and ruling again until his death in 1464; in his later years he abolished the practice of burial with the dead and strengthened frontier defenses, leaving a profound impact on mid-Ming politics.

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