Shang Yang's Reforms

Timeline

1. -361–-356Yueyang · ShaanxiAfter ascending the throne, Duke Xiao of Qin issued a decree seeking able men. Shang Yang came from the state of Wei to Qin and persuaded Duke Xiao with his methods for strengthening the state. Despite opposition from the old aristocracy, he gained the duke's trust and was appointed Left Chancellor, preparing to carry out the reforms.
2. -356Qin state · ShaanxiShang Yang promulgated the first batch of laws: abolishing the well-field system and opening up the field boundaries, rewarding agriculture and warfare, granting ranks according to military merit, emphasizing agriculture and suppressing commerce, and establishing credibility by moving a wooden pole to win the people's trust. The state's power began to grow rapidly.
3. -350–-338Xianyang · ShaanxiShang Yang carried out the second reform: implementing the county system, standardizing weights and measures, prohibiting private feuds, and strengthening central authority. Qin moved its capital to Xianyang, the new laws were deeply consolidated, and Qin became one of the most powerful states of the Warring States period.