Reforms of Emperor Shun of Yuan

Timeline

1. 1340–1341Dadu · North ChinaEmperor Shun of Yuan consolidated imperial power after the coup, reappointing Toqto'a as right chancellor, forming a joint rule of emperor and powerful minister that laid the political foundation for a series of Zhizheng-era reforms.
2. 1343–1345Dadu · North ChinaIn Zhizheng 5 the imperial examinations were restored, rebuilding the selection system interrupted for years; simultaneously an edict ordered compilation of the histories of Liao, Jin, and Song under Toqto'a's supervision, completed successively in Zhizheng 5, an important Yuan cultural achievement.
3. 1344–1349Yuan-ruled territories · ChinaToqto'a directed Yellow River works and printed more paper currency to cover river works and military expenses; salt policy adjustments failed to fundamentally relieve the fiscal crisis. The reforms restored institutions and culture somewhat, but heavy conscription and inflation intensified popular uprisings, steadily weakening the Yuan court's foundations.