Wei Zhongxian

  • The Tragedy of the Loyal General: Yuan Chonghuan [Ming]

    The Emperor’s Commission and the Five-Year Promise Emperor Ming Sizong (Chongzhen) decided to entrust the entire defense of Liaodong and its surrounding regions to Yuan Chonghuan. He was generous with his authority, appointing Yuan as Minister of War and Left Chief Censor, granting him supreme command over military and administrative affairs in Ji Province,…

  • The Dictatorship of the Eunuch Faction [Ming]

    Introduction: The Turbulent Succession of the Ming Throne Emperor Wanli of the Ming Dynasty reigned for forty-eight years. When he died, his crown prince Zhu Changluo was nearly forty years old. Zhu Changluo ascended the throne as Emperor Taichang, with the reign title Taichang. No one expected that he would fall seriously ill less…