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The Struggle for the Succession The troubles regarding the imperial succession began early in the reign of Emperor Ming Shenzong (Wanli) and plagued the court for decades. Although Empress Wang, chosen by the Dowager Empress Li, never bore a son, the Emperor fathered a child with a palace maid, also surnamed Wang. This child,…
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The “Little Shizong” and the Hunger for Wealth After assuming personal rule, Emperor Ming Shenzong (Wanli) initially managed state affairs with some diligence. However, he was headstrong and increasingly resembled his grandfather, Emperor Shizong (Jiajing). Like his predecessor, he grew to loathe court audiences, eventually ceasing them entirely in favor of “quiet governance.” He…