Xu Cheng

  • The Defense of Beijing: Yu Qian and the Crisis of 1449 [Ming]

    Brief: This article recounts the 1449 Tumu Crisis: Emperor Yingzong was captured by Oirat forces after bad advice from eunuch Wang Zhen. Minister Yu Qian took charge, enthroned a new emperor, and led the heroic Defense of Beijing, repelling the invaders. He saved the Ming Dynasty but later faced political conflict between the two…