112/04/19 1

The Gokturk, China and the The Gokturk, China and the Five DynastiesFive Dynasties

Wang Gungwu, The Structure of Northern China Wang Gungwu, The Structure of Northern China during the Five Dynasties, Stanford, Calif. : during the Five Dynasties, Stanford, Calif. : Stanford University Press, 1967.Stanford University Press, 1967. Reference Readings on the Uyghur: Reference Readings on the Uyghur:

Barfield, Thomas,Barfield, Thomas, The Perilous Frontier, The Perilous Frontier, Ch Ch 4 pp131-163; Sinor, Denis, 4 pp131-163; Sinor, Denis, ““Sending Sending princesses to nomads”, princesses to nomads”, Uyghur Empire in Uyghur Empire in Studies in Medieval Inner Asia,Studies in Medieval Inner Asia, Part V, Part V, pp18-19; pp18-19;

Drompp, Michael, Drompp, Michael, ““The Uyghur Chinese The Uyghur Chinese Conflict of 840-848, in Di Cosmo, Nicola, Conflict of 840-848, in Di Cosmo, Nicola, Warfare in Inner Asian History (500-1800), Warfare in Inner Asian History (500-1800), pp73-96.pp73-96.

112/04/19 2

The Gokturk, China, and The Gokturk, China, and the the

Five DynastiesFive Dynasties The Gokturk Empire (552-630)The Gokturk Empire (552-630)

The Gokturk and the Sui (581-617)The Gokturk and the Sui (581-617) The Gokturk and the Tang (617-906)The Gokturk and the Tang (617-906)

The Shatuo TurksThe Shatuo Turks The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period

(907-960)(907-960) The Shatuo Turks and the Five Dynasties The Shatuo Turks and the Five Dynasties

PeriodPeriod

Reference: The Uyghur Empire: The Uyghurs Reference: The Uyghur Empire: The Uyghurs and the Tangand the Tang

112/04/19 3

Five Dynasties and Ten Five Dynasties and Ten KingdomsKingdoms

Five Dynasties:Five Dynasties: Later Liang (Han)Later Liang (Han)

後後凉 （凉 （ 907-923); 16 years907-923); 16 years Later Tang (Shantuo Later Tang (Shantuo

Turk)Turk) 後 唐 後 唐 ((923 – 936); 13 years923 – 936); 13 years

Later Jin (Shantuo Later Jin (Shantuo Turks)Turks)

後晉 後晉 (936-947); 11 years(936-947); 11 years Later Han (Shantuo Later Han (Shantuo

Turks)Turks) 後汉 後汉 (947 – 950); 3 years(947 – 950); 3 years

Later Zhou (Han)Later Zhou (Han) 後周 後周 (951-960); 9 years(951-960); 9 years

Ten Kingdoms (Han):Ten Kingdoms (Han): ChuChu Wu Wu Wuyue Wuyue Jingnan Jingnan Former Shu Former Shu Min Min Southern HanSouthern Han Later Shu Later Shu Northern Han Northern Han Southern TangSouthern Tang

112/04/19 4

IntroductionIntroduction The Gokturk known as The Gokturk known as TujueTujue ( ( 突厥突厥 ) in medieval ) in medieval

Chinese sources, established the first known Chinese sources, established the first known Turkic state around 552.Turkic state around 552. They originated from the northern corner of They originated from the northern corner of

the area presently called the Xinjiang Yughur the area presently called the Xinjiang Yughur Autonomous Region. Autonomous Region.

They were the first Turkic tribe to use the They were the first Turkic tribe to use the name "Türk" as a political name; economic name "Türk" as a political name; economic base of the Gokturk was horse breeding.base of the Gokturk was horse breeding.

Turkic peoples are Northern and Central Turkic peoples are Northern and Central Eurasian peoples who speak languages Eurasian peoples who speak languages belonging to the Turkic family, and who, share belonging to the Turkic family, and who, share some cultural and historical traits.some cultural and historical traits.

Introduction (2)Introduction (2)

In the 5In the 5thth century, the head of the a Gokturk clan century, the head of the a Gokturk clan went to the Rouran (Juan Juan) went to the Rouran (Juan Juan) 柔然 柔然 (460-545), (460-545), who dominated the steppe, seeking protection who dominated the steppe, seeking protection from China from China

The Gokturk were famed metal smiths and were The Gokturk were famed metal smiths and were granted land near a mountain quarry which granted land near a mountain quarry which looked like a helmet –this is why the Chinese looked like a helmet –this is why the Chinese called them Tujue called them Tujue 突厥突厥 . .

112/04/19 5

112/04/19 6

Introduction (3)Introduction (3) In 546, the Gokturk fought for the Rouran,

defeating the Gao-che 高车 and capturing 50,000 tents. Their leader, Tümän 土門 asked for a marriage

alliance with the Rouran as a reward. But the Rouran refused the request as they

despised the Gokturk who worked in the Rouran iron mines and were called “blacksmith slaves” (duannu 鍛奴 ).

The Gokturk conquered the Rouran and established The Gokturk conquered the Rouran and established their own empire.their own empire.

Tümän granted his brother, Istami, the right to rule Tümän granted his brother, Istami, the right to rule over the west and when Tümän died in 553, his over the west and when Tümän died in 553, his brother allowed Tümän’s son, Keluo brother allowed Tümän’s son, Keluo 科羅科羅 , to , to become the supreme ruler of the empire.become the supreme ruler of the empire. When Keluo died, he was succeeded by his When Keluo died, he was succeeded by his

brother Mugan brother Mugan 木杆 木杆 who extended the Gokturk who extended the Gokturk empire until it reached from Manchuria to the empire until it reached from Manchuria to the Caspian Sea. Caspian Sea.

112/04/19 7

Introduction (4)Introduction (4) The Gokturk practiced fraternal succession and The Gokturk practiced fraternal succession and

succession had been stable from brother to succession had been stable from brother to brother until all of Tümän’s sons had died.brother until all of Tümän’s sons had died.

In 576, Tardu, (descended from Istami, Tümän’s In 576, Tardu, (descended from Istami, Tümän’s brother) became the senior male of his brother) became the senior male of his generation and outranked the sons of his cousins; generation and outranked the sons of his cousins; he felt that his lineage should now rule.he felt that his lineage should now rule. This split the Gokturk Empire into two parts This split the Gokturk Empire into two parts

(584) -- the Eastern Gokturk ((584) -- the Eastern Gokturk (Dong TujueDong Tujue 東突東突厥厥 ) and the Western Gokturk () and the Western Gokturk (Xi TujueXi Tujue 西突厥西突厥 ).).

Map of the Western (purple) and Eastern (blue) Map of the Western (purple) and Eastern (blue) Gokturk at their height. Gokturk at their height. Lighter areas show direct rule; Lighter areas show direct rule; darker areas show spheres of influencedarker areas show spheres of influence

Introduction (5)Introduction (5) The Sui and the Tang played the two Gokturk groups The Sui and the Tang played the two Gokturk groups

against each other and the Eastern Gokturk became against each other and the Eastern Gokturk became formally subordinate to the Chinese Emperor.formally subordinate to the Chinese Emperor.

The Western Gokturk leader Tardu, almost The Western Gokturk leader Tardu, almost succeeded in reuniting the Gokturk empire around succeeded in reuniting the Gokturk empire around 600 but the Chinese caused a revolt of his vassals, 600 but the Chinese caused a revolt of his vassals, and Tardu died in 603.and Tardu died in 603.

By the end of the 700s, the Gokturk brought about By the end of the 700s, the Gokturk brought about their own end by constantly fighting within the their own end by constantly fighting within the ruling tribes. ruling tribes.

In 744, the Uyghur, drove out the Eastern Gokturk In 744, the Uyghur, drove out the Eastern Gokturk rulers and established the second great Mongolian rulers and established the second great Mongolian empire reaching from the Caspian Sea to Manchuria empire reaching from the Caspian Sea to Manchuria (744-840).(744-840).

112/04/19 8

112/04/19 9

The Gokturk and ChinaThe Gokturk and China Towards the end of the Northern Dynasties Period, Towards the end of the Northern Dynasties Period,

the Gokturk received gifts from both the Northern the Gokturk received gifts from both the Northern Zhou and the Northern Qi courts; they also acted Zhou and the Northern Qi courts; they also acted as mercenaries for them. as mercenaries for them. The Eastern Gokturk looked upon a divided The Eastern Gokturk looked upon a divided

northern China between the Northern Zhou and northern China between the Northern Zhou and the Northern Qi as an area to exploit.the Northern Qi as an area to exploit.

The Northern Zhou asked for a daughter of The Northern Zhou asked for a daughter of the Gokturk khan and was granted this favor the Gokturk khan and was granted this favor in 565; each year the Northern Zhou gave the in 565; each year the Northern Zhou gave the Gokturk 100,000 pieces of silk.Gokturk 100,000 pieces of silk.

The Northern Qi also gave the Gokturk riches The Northern Qi also gave the Gokturk riches so it would not side with its enemies.so it would not side with its enemies.

The Gokturk leader felt that his “two children to The Gokturk leader felt that his “two children to the south (the emperors of the Northern Zhou the south (the emperors of the Northern Zhou and Northern Qi) are always filial and obedient” and Northern Qi) are always filial and obedient” so he should not fear poverty.so he should not fear poverty.

112/04/19 10

The Gokturk and China:The Gokturk and China:Sui DynastySui Dynasty

The Sui dynasty (581-619), was much stronger The Sui dynasty (581-619), was much stronger than either the Northern Qi or the Northern Zhou than either the Northern Qi or the Northern Zhou so the Gokturk were not able to raid China so the Gokturk were not able to raid China successfully.successfully.

During the reign of Sui Yangdi (r.605-618), the During the reign of Sui Yangdi (r.605-618), the Western Gokturk were only a minor problem as Western Gokturk were only a minor problem as the Gokturk Khan’s mother was a Chinese who the Gokturk Khan’s mother was a Chinese who lived in the Sui capital as a hostage and acted as lived in the Sui capital as a hostage and acted as a liaison person.a liaison person. When the Western Khan showed some When the Western Khan showed some

independence, Sui Yangdi set up a puppet in independence, Sui Yangdi set up a puppet in his place.his place.

The Eastern Gokturk were a threat along Sui’s The Eastern Gokturk were a threat along Sui’s northern frontier so the Sui emperors repaired northern frontier so the Sui emperors repaired and extended the Great Wall.and extended the Great Wall.

112/04/19 11

The Gokturk and China:The Gokturk and China:Sui Dynasty (2)Sui Dynasty (2)

The Sui policy was to weaken the Gokturk as well The Sui policy was to weaken the Gokturk as well as use them against Sui’s enemies. as use them against Sui’s enemies. Sui Yangdi: Kept the sons and nephews of the Gokturk

khans in the Sui capital for “education”; Settled the Gokturk within the Chinese

borders; Gave tributes and return gifts – Chinese silk

for Gokturk horses, etc. In 618 Sui Yangdi was murdered and Sui

collapsed. The Gokturk happily received envoys, with gifts, The Gokturk happily received envoys, with gifts,

from all rebel leaders against the Sui. from all rebel leaders against the Sui.

The Gokturk and China:The Gokturk and China:Sui Dynasty (3)Sui Dynasty (3)

They also received many refugees including They also received many refugees including part of the Sui court with whom the Gokturk part of the Sui court with whom the Gokturk leader was related through marriage.leader was related through marriage.

They supported different groups of rebels with They supported different groups of rebels with horses and small numbers of troops but the horses and small numbers of troops but the Gokturk leader himself did not take part. Gokturk leader himself did not take part.

The Gokturk elite at that time had traditional The Gokturk elite at that time had traditional Chinese education but placed strong emphasis on Chinese education but placed strong emphasis on martial virtues and personal participation in martial virtues and personal participation in Gokturk cultural traits.Gokturk cultural traits. These families were a mix of old frontier These families were a mix of old frontier

Chinese, Xianbei, Xiongnu and Gokturk Chinese, Xianbei, Xiongnu and Gokturk backgrounds but over the years had lost specific backgrounds but over the years had lost specific tribal ties and become a social class with strong tribal ties and become a social class with strong aristocratic traditions.aristocratic traditions.

112/04/19 12

The Gokturk and China:The Gokturk and China:Tang DynastyTang Dynasty

During the rebellions against the Sui dynasty, Li During the rebellions against the Sui dynasty, Li Yuan (r.618-626), the first emperor of the Tang, Yuan (r.618-626), the first emperor of the Tang, received help from the Gokturk by promising them all received help from the Gokturk by promising them all the loot taken during the campaigns.the loot taken during the campaigns.

During the reign of the second Tang emperor, there During the reign of the second Tang emperor, there were widespread revolts within the Gokturk due to were widespread revolts within the Gokturk due to natural disasters (629) . natural disasters (629) . The Tang sent large numbers of troops and The Tang sent large numbers of troops and

Gokturk leaders surrendered.Gokturk leaders surrendered. Within a few years, the Gokturk tribes either went Within a few years, the Gokturk tribes either went

over to the Tang or fled west.over to the Tang or fled west. China’s problem was what to do with the large China’s problem was what to do with the large

number of Gokturk now under its control.number of Gokturk now under its control.

112/04/19 13

The Gokturk and China:The Gokturk and China:Tang Dynasty (2)Tang Dynasty (2)

The emperor decided to do the following:The emperor decided to do the following: Divided them into small tribes, Divided them into small tribes, Chose 500 leaders from the Gokturk elite to rule Chose 500 leaders from the Gokturk elite to rule

over them, over them, Chose 100 to serve at court,Chose 100 to serve at court, Summoned prominent families to move to Summoned prominent families to move to

Chang’an.Chang’an. Incorporated the Gokturk tribal structure into the Incorporated the Gokturk tribal structure into the

Tang government and Gokturk leaders became Tang government and Gokturk leaders became Tang officials; the Gokturk now carried Chinese Tang officials; the Gokturk now carried Chinese titles and fought by their side in their wars.titles and fought by their side in their wars.

For the next 50 years, Tang Taizong was accepted as For the next 50 years, Tang Taizong was accepted as ruler over both the steppe and China and the Gokturk ruler over both the steppe and China and the Gokturk were under Chinese rule for over 50 years (630-682).were under Chinese rule for over 50 years (630-682).

112/04/19 14

112/04/19 15

The Gokturk and the Tang (3)The Gokturk and the Tang (3) Gokturk troops under the Tang banner expanded Gokturk troops under the Tang banner expanded

China’s borders deep into central Asia.China’s borders deep into central Asia. By 659, the Tang Emperor of China could claim By 659, the Tang Emperor of China could claim

to rule the entire Silk Road as far as Persia.to rule the entire Silk Road as far as Persia. After Taizong’s death, the Eastern Gokturk After Taizong’s death, the Eastern Gokturk

reunited again attacked China and China returned reunited again attacked China and China returned to the defensive policies used by the Han.to the defensive policies used by the Han. The Gokturk tried to attack the Chinese frontier The Gokturk tried to attack the Chinese frontier

but failed as the Tang was able to attack the but failed as the Tang was able to attack the Gokturk before they were fully organized and a Gokturk before they were fully organized and a number of tribal leaders abandoned the frontier number of tribal leaders abandoned the frontier for the old Gokturk homeland in Mongolia.for the old Gokturk homeland in Mongolia.

112/04/19 16

Five Dynasties and Ten Five Dynasties and Ten KingdomsKingdoms

The Five Dynasties in the North succeeded each The Five Dynasties in the North succeeded each other.other. Two of the five were ruled by persons of Han Two of the five were ruled by persons of Han

origin– the first and the last -- the Later Liang origin– the first and the last -- the Later Liang and the Later Zhou.and the Later Zhou.

Three of the five – Later Tang, Later Jin, and Three of the five – Later Tang, Later Jin, and Later Han – were ruled by the Shatuo Turks Later Han – were ruled by the Shatuo Turks who had descended from the Western Gokturk.who had descended from the Western Gokturk.

The Ten Kingdoms, in the South existed at the The Ten Kingdoms, in the South existed at the same time occupying different parts of southern same time occupying different parts of southern China.China.

Five Dynasties and Ten Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (2)Kingdoms (2)

This Period was a result of the disintegration of the This Period was a result of the disintegration of the Tang when power went from the centre to the Tang when power went from the centre to the provinces.provinces.

The Tang had created a system of regional military The Tang had created a system of regional military governors, governors, jiedushi jiedushi 节度使节度使 , to guard the frontiers., to guard the frontiers. The governors had started as agents of the court The governors had started as agents of the court

responsible for logistics and troop support in the responsible for logistics and troop support in the border provinces but they became more powerful border provinces but they became more powerful as the central government became weaker.as the central government became weaker.

In the 8In the 8thth century, these governors gradually had century, these governors gradually had authority over civil as well as military affairs.authority over civil as well as military affairs.

Five Dynasties and Ten Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms ()Kingdoms ()

A century of struggle between the centre and the A century of struggle between the centre and the borders resulted in the rebellion led by Huang borders resulted in the rebellion led by Huang Chao (d.880).Chao (d.880). His army plundered and burnt several cities, His army plundered and burnt several cities,

in 880 Huang Chao's forces sacked both in 880 Huang Chao's forces sacked both Chang’an and Luoyang, the biggest cities in Chang’an and Luoyang, the biggest cities in China.China.

The Tang asked for help from the Shatuo Turks, The Tang asked for help from the Shatuo Turks, led by Li Keyongled by Li Keyong 李克用李克用 .. Li re-captured Chang’an and the Tang Li re-captured Chang’an and the Tang

emperor was returned to the capital (883); Li emperor was returned to the capital (883); Li was rewarded with the military governorship was rewarded with the military governorship of much of northern China.of much of northern China.

112/04/19 19

Five Dynasties and Ten Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (5)Kingdoms (5)

Huang Chao was finally defeated by a coalition of Huang Chao was finally defeated by a coalition of Li Keyong and Zhu Wen Li Keyong and Zhu Wen 朱文朱文 .. Zhu had been a lieutenant under Huang Chao Zhu had been a lieutenant under Huang Chao

but had surrendered to the Tang.but had surrendered to the Tang. He surrendered to the Tang Dynasty, helped to He surrendered to the Tang Dynasty, helped to

suppress the rebellion and was named governor suppress the rebellion and was named governor of Kaifeng.of Kaifeng.

After the Huang Chao (d.880) Rebellion (875-884), After the Huang Chao (d.880) Rebellion (875-884), the military governors were the military governors were de factode facto independent. independent.

The court had to use armies in or near the capital The court had to use armies in or near the capital to oversee the governors; these palace armies to oversee the governors; these palace armies were often led by eunuchs.were often led by eunuchs. The use of eunuchs and their increase in power The use of eunuchs and their increase in power

was resented by both the civil and military was resented by both the civil and military officials.officials.

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: The Later Liang (907-923)The Later Liang (907-923)

In time, Zhu WenIn time, Zhu Wen 朱文 朱文 ((852–912), became the most 852–912), became the most powerful military governor in North China.powerful military governor in North China. He tried to get rid of eunuch power, killing 700 of He tried to get rid of eunuch power, killing 700 of

them, and forced the Tang emperor to relocate from them, and forced the Tang emperor to relocate from Chang’an (Sian) to Luoyang in 903.Chang’an (Sian) to Luoyang in 903.

He assassinated the emperor in 904 and ruled He assassinated the emperor in 904 and ruled through a 13-year old puppet; three years later he through a 13-year old puppet; three years later he forced his puppet to abdicate and proclaimed the forced his puppet to abdicate and proclaimed the founding of the Later Liang Dynasty with himself as founding of the Later Liang Dynasty with himself as emperor.emperor.

Many of the other warlords had declared their own Many of the other warlords had declared their own independence and not all recognized Zhu Wen as independence and not all recognized Zhu Wen as emperor.emperor.

Zhu Wen was murdered by his son and the Later Liang Zhu Wen was murdered by his son and the Later Liang dynasty ended when it was conquered by the Shatuo dynasty ended when it was conquered by the Shatuo Turks leading to the rule of three successive Shatuo Turks leading to the rule of three successive Shatuo Turk dynasties. Turk dynasties.

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: The Later Tang (923-936)The Later Tang (923-936)

The strongest enemy of Zhu Wen, of the Later Liang, was The strongest enemy of Zhu Wen, of the Later Liang, was the Shatuothe Shatuo 沙驼 沙驼 Turk, Li keyong Turk, Li keyong 李克永李克永 , who fought under , who fought under the slogan, “Restoration of the Tang”.the slogan, “Restoration of the Tang”. The Tang had adopted the leader of the Shatuo Turks The Tang had adopted the leader of the Shatuo Turks

into the imperial family and gave him the name of “Li”.into the imperial family and gave him the name of “Li”. By the early 890s, Li Keyong was a threat to Zhu Wen By the early 890s, Li Keyong was a threat to Zhu Wen

who then tried to alienate Li Keyong’s relations with the who then tried to alienate Li Keyong’s relations with the Tang court.Tang court.

Li Cunxu Li Cunxu 李存勗李存勗 , son of , son of Li Keyong, defeated the Later Li Keyong, defeated the Later Liang armies along the Yellow River, ending the dynasty Liang armies along the Yellow River, ending the dynasty in 923.in 923. He then proclaimed himself as the successor of the He then proclaimed himself as the successor of the

Tang emperor (related by the Li surname – “brothers”).Tang emperor (related by the Li surname – “brothers”). Within a few months, the Later Tang swept away the Within a few months, the Later Tang swept away the

Later Liang and unified much of North China.Later Liang and unified much of North China. Li Cunyu was killed by his army during a mutiny in 925 Li Cunyu was killed by his army during a mutiny in 925

and was succeeded by a relative, Li Siyuan and was succeeded by a relative, Li Siyuan 李嗣源 李嗣源 ..

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: The Later Tang (923-936) (cont.)The Later Tang (923-936) (cont.)

When Li Siyuan died, he was succeeded by his son, Li When Li Siyuan died, he was succeeded by his son, Li Conghou Conghou 李從厚 李從厚 who was overthrown by his adopted who was overthrown by his adopted brother, Li Congke brother, Li Congke 李從珂李從珂 , who usurped the throne. , who usurped the throne.

The Later Tang, at its height, controlled more The Later Tang, at its height, controlled more territory than did the Later Liang.territory than did the Later Liang. The largest expansion of the Later Tang occurred The largest expansion of the Later Tang occurred

in 925 when they conquered the Former Shu in 925 when they conquered the Former Shu State, centered in present-day Sichuan. State, centered in present-day Sichuan.

However, a Later Shu state was again restored However, a Later Shu state was again restored 10 years later, one year before the fall of the 10 years later, one year before the fall of the Later Tang.Later Tang.

The Later Tang ended as the result of a rebellion led The Later Tang ended as the result of a rebellion led by the emperor’s brother-in-law.by the emperor’s brother-in-law.

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: The Later Jin The Later Jin (936-946) (936-946)

In 936, Shi Jingtang In 936, Shi Jingtang 石敬瑭石敬瑭 , the brother-in-law, of , the brother-in-law, of the last Later Tang emperor, rebelled with the the last Later Tang emperor, rebelled with the help of the Qidan help of the Qidan 契丹 契丹 of Manchuria, of Manchuria, who had who had been allies of the Later Tang but now turned been allies of the Later Tang but now turned against it.against it. Shi took over Luoyang and established the Later Shi took over Luoyang and established the Later

Jin Jin 後晉 後晉 (936-946) and gave 16 prefectures (936-946) and gave 16 prefectures around modern Beijing to the Qidans in return around modern Beijing to the Qidans in return for their help.for their help.

He also gave the Qidan annual tributes and the He also gave the Qidan annual tributes and the Qidan Qidan began to view the Later Jin as their began to view the Later Jin as their puppet state and tried to take it over for puppet state and tried to take it over for themselves.themselves.

23

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: Later Jin (936-947) (cont.)Later Jin (936-947) (cont.)

Shi Jingtang’s successor listened to the advice of an Shi Jingtang’s successor listened to the advice of an official, who was anti-Qidan, and it led to a three-year official, who was anti-Qidan, and it led to a three-year war that ended the Jin dynasty.war that ended the Jin dynasty. The emperor was deposed by the Qidan and lived in The emperor was deposed by the Qidan and lived in

Manchuria until his death.Manchuria until his death. The Qidan overran the Jin capital at Kaifeng with help The Qidan overran the Jin capital at Kaifeng with help

from key officials of the Jin court and began to try and from key officials of the Jin court and began to try and rule directly.rule directly. The Qidan (Yelu Yuan The Qidan (Yelu Yuan 耶律阮 耶律阮 : r.947-951) proclaimed : r.947-951) proclaimed

a Liao dynasty (907-1125) a Liao dynasty (907-1125) ruling the 16 prefectures ruling the 16 prefectures around modern Beijing.around modern Beijing.

They tried to occupy the territories They tried to occupy the territories they had they had conqueredconquered from the Later Jin but were unsuccessful from the Later Jin but were unsuccessful as the Shatuo Turks refused to submit to the Qidan.as the Shatuo Turks refused to submit to the Qidan.

112/04/19 25

Five Dynasties:Five Dynasties:The Later Han (947-950)The Later Han (947-950)

Rebellions arose and another Shatuo general, Liu Rebellions arose and another Shatuo general, Liu Zhiyuan Zhiyuan 劉知遠 劉知遠 , seized Luoyang and Kaifeng and , seized Luoyang and Kaifeng and declared a new dynasty, with himself as emperor. declared a new dynasty, with himself as emperor. As he had the same surname Liu as the imperial As he had the same surname Liu as the imperial

family of the Han he called his dynasty, Han (947 – family of the Han he called his dynasty, Han (947 – 950).950).

His successor listened to His successor listened to the the advice advice of his officials and of his officials and attackattackeded the Qidan who had kept the 16 provinces the Qidan who had kept the 16 provinces ceded to them by the Later Jin.ceded to them by the Later Jin. The Empress Dowager Li tried to advise the young The Empress Dowager Li tried to advise the young

emperor against doing so but he would not listen and emperor against doing so but he would not listen and she had to stand by and watch him murdered by the she had to stand by and watch him murdered by the military.military.

A puppet was placed on the throne for a month with A puppet was placed on the throne for a month with the Empress Dowager as regent.the Empress Dowager as regent.

Five Dynasties: Five Dynasties: Later Han (947-951) (cont.)Later Han (947-951) (cont.)

The regent, Empress Dowager The regent, Empress Dowager Li, was thewife of the Liu Li, was thewife of the Liu Zhiyuan, founder of the Later Han, and wasZhiyuan, founder of the Later Han, and was especially especially trusting of one of her officials, Guo Wei trusting of one of her officials, Guo Wei 郭威郭威 .. Guo Wei had worked for Shi Jingtang (founder of the Guo Wei had worked for Shi Jingtang (founder of the

Later Jin) who had found him indispensable.Later Jin) who had found him indispensable. ED Li, finally deposed the child puppet emperor and ED Li, finally deposed the child puppet emperor and

gave Guo Wei the throne in a peaceful transfer of gave Guo Wei the throne in a peaceful transfer of power.power.

Guo Wei declared a new dynasty, the Later Zhou.Guo Wei declared a new dynasty, the Later Zhou. Meanwhile, a member of the Later Han imperial family, Meanwhile, a member of the Later Han imperial family,

Liu Chong, set up a Northern Han regime in Taiyan and Liu Chong, set up a Northern Han regime in Taiyan and asked the Qidan for help to defeat the Later Zhou.asked the Qidan for help to defeat the Later Zhou.

Five Dynasties: Later Zhou Five Dynasties: Later Zhou (951-960)(951-960)

Guo Wei ruled for only three years as his health Guo Wei ruled for only three years as his health deteriorated.deteriorated. He had started out by campaigning against the He had started out by campaigning against the

Qidan by attacking their protectorate the Qidan by attacking their protectorate the Northern Han set up by Liu Chong.Northern Han set up by Liu Chong.

The invasion resulted in the assassination of The invasion resulted in the assassination of the newly enthroned Qidan ruler.the newly enthroned Qidan ruler.

Guo Wei was succeeded by his adopted son, Guo Wei was succeeded by his adopted son, Chai Rong Chai Rong 柴榮 柴榮

Chai Rong was a brilliant general and within 6 Chai Rong was a brilliant general and within 6 years he had expanded the dynasty.years he had expanded the dynasty.

Chai Rong attacked the Qidan Empire to Chai Rong attacked the Qidan Empire to recover the 16 prefectures but Chai became ill recover the 16 prefectures but Chai became ill and died leaving a boy emperor on the throne.and died leaving a boy emperor on the throne.

End of the Five DynastiesEnd of the Five Dynasties

The following year, the Later Zhou general, Zhao The following year, the Later Zhou general, Zhao Kuangyin Kuangyin 趙匡胤 趙匡胤 staged a coup and took the throne staged a coup and took the throne for himselffor himself establishing the Song dynasty. establishing the Song dynasty.

This marks the official end of the Five Dynasties This marks the official end of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. and Ten Kingdoms period. Over the next two decades, Zhao Kuangyin and Over the next two decades, Zhao Kuangyin and

his successor Zhao Kuangyi (his brother) his successor Zhao Kuangyi (his brother) defeated all of the other remaining 10 kingdoms, defeated all of the other remaining 10 kingdoms, conquering Northern Han in 979 and reunifying conquering Northern Han in 979 and reunifying much of China by 982.much of China by 982.

However, the 16 prefectures were still under the However, the 16 prefectures were still under the Qidan and western China was ruled by the Tanguts Qidan and western China was ruled by the Tanguts (Tibetan origin).(Tibetan origin).

This remained a problem for the Song dynasty.This remained a problem for the Song dynasty.

112/04/19 28

112/04/19 29

Reference: Reference: The Uyghur EmpireThe Uyghur Empire

The Uyghur "Uyghur" The Uyghur "Uyghur" 维吾尔 维吾尔 was one of the largest and was one of the largest and most enduring Gokturkic peoples living in Central Asia.most enduring Gokturkic peoples living in Central Asia.

8.68 million Uyghurs (2004) live primarily in the Xinjiang; 8.68 million Uyghurs (2004) live primarily in the Xinjiang; some live in Taoyuan, Hunan, as well as Beijing and some live in Taoyuan, Hunan, as well as Beijing and Shanghai.Shanghai.

There are also existing Uyghur communities in There are also existing Uyghur communities in Kakazhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ubekistan and Gokturkey.Kakazhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ubekistan and Gokturkey.

The earliest use of the term 'Uyghur' (Weihu) was during The earliest use of the term 'Uyghur' (Weihu) was during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 CE) – part of the the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 CE) – part of the Gaoche.Gaoche.

They were a tribal federation ruled first by the Xiongnu, They were a tribal federation ruled first by the Xiongnu, then by the Rouran (460-545), by the Hepthalites (541-then by the Rouran (460-545), by the Hepthalites (541-565) and then by the Eastern Gokturk (GorGokturk).565) and then by the Eastern Gokturk (GorGokturk). Hepthalites (also known as White Huns, the Yanda Hepthalites (also known as White Huns, the Yanda 厌哒 厌哒 or the Hua or the Hua

滑 滑 a nomadic people who lived across northern China, Central Asia, a nomadic people who lived across northern China, Central Asia, and northern India in the 4and northern India in the 4thth to the 6 to the 6thth centuries) centuries)

112/04/19 30

The Uyghur Empire (2)The Uyghur Empire (2)

Map of the Uyghur Map of the Uyghur Khaganate and areas under Khaganate and areas under its dominion (in yellow) at its dominion (in yellow) at its height, c. 820 AD. its height, c. 820 AD.

The Uyghurs were, in some ways, The Uyghurs were, in some ways, similar to the Gokturk in customs, similar to the Gokturk in customs, titles, and political organization titles, and political organization but their political structure was but their political structure was more stable and they developed a more stable and they developed a greater degree of civilization.greater degree of civilization.

They practiced lineal succession; They practiced lineal succession; power was passed to sons unless power was passed to sons unless the successor was assassinated the successor was assassinated and replaced by an opponent who and replaced by an opponent who would then be succeeded by his would then be succeeded by his son. son.

They survived on the silk trade They survived on the silk trade and gifts from China and remained and gifts from China and remained at peace as Tang allies.at peace as Tang allies.

112/04/19 31

The Uyghurs and the The Uyghurs and the TangTang

TThe Tang court asked the Uyghurs for help against the he Tang court asked the Uyghurs for help against the An Lushan rebellion (755-63) and the Uyghur heir-An Lushan rebellion (755-63) and the Uyghur heir-apparent led a force into China with 4,000 horsemen.apparent led a force into China with 4,000 horsemen.

In late 756 the Uyghurs helped China to reclaim their In late 756 the Uyghurs helped China to reclaim their two old capitals, Chang’an and Luoyang.two old capitals, Chang’an and Luoyang. There was a high price for this help as the Uyghurs There was a high price for this help as the Uyghurs

looted Luoyang and were finally stopped when the looted Luoyang and were finally stopped when the city elders bribed them with enormous quantities of city elders bribed them with enormous quantities of silk and embroidery. silk and embroidery.

The Uighurs received two Tang princesses in The Uighurs received two Tang princesses in marriage and was given a third in 821.marriage and was given a third in 821.

They were also given an annual gift of 20,000 They were also given an annual gift of 20,000 rolls of silk and their leaders received honorary rolls of silk and their leaders received honorary titles and gifts.titles and gifts.

They were paid 40 pieces of silk for every horse They were paid 40 pieces of silk for every horse brought to China while on the steppe a horse was brought to China while on the steppe a horse was only worth one piece of silk.only worth one piece of silk.

112/04/19 32

The Uyghurs and the Tang (2)The Uyghurs and the Tang (2) The Uyghurs took tens of thousands of the poorest quality The Uyghurs took tens of thousands of the poorest quality

of horses to Tang annually. – the Tang could not refuse of horses to Tang annually. – the Tang could not refuse but often withheld payment for years.but often withheld payment for years.

The Uyghur victories for China had restored Tang power but The Uyghur victories for China had restored Tang power but had not put an end to the disorder.had not put an end to the disorder.

Around 825, rebellions broke out against the Uyghur throne Around 825, rebellions broke out against the Uyghur throne and in 839 a severe winter killed much of the livestock. and in 839 a severe winter killed much of the livestock.

In 840, at the invitation of a rebel Uyghur chief, Kirghiz In 840, at the invitation of a rebel Uyghur chief, Kirghiz forces entered the empire killed the khan and forced the forces entered the empire killed the khan and forced the Uyghurs to migrate to Xinjiang and Gansu and the Central Uyghurs to migrate to Xinjiang and Gansu and the Central Asian steppes.Asian steppes.

Groups of Uyghurs also fled south to the Tang border.Groups of Uyghurs also fled south to the Tang border. The first group to arrive, about 30,000, were aristocrats The first group to arrive, about 30,000, were aristocrats

led by the brother of the former ruler who had been led by the brother of the former ruler who had been assassinated. assassinated.

The Tang at first refused to grant asylum and urged them The Tang at first refused to grant asylum and urged them to return to their former homeland as the Tang was afraid to return to their former homeland as the Tang was afraid that the Kirghiz might attack if asylum was granted.that the Kirghiz might attack if asylum was granted.

112/04/19 33

The Uyghurs and the Tang (3)The Uyghurs and the Tang (3) The Tang was also afraid that settlement of large numbers of The Tang was also afraid that settlement of large numbers of

non-Han populations within their borders might create non-Han populations within their borders might create trouble.trouble.

A second group of refugees of about 100,000 arrived A second group of refugees of about 100,000 arrived accompanied by a Tang princess – aunt of the then Tang accompanied by a Tang princess – aunt of the then Tang emperor, Wuzong (r.814-846).emperor, Wuzong (r.814-846).

The leader of this group claimed to be the new ruler of the The leader of this group claimed to be the new ruler of the Uyghur and asked for assistance to fight against the Kirghiz.Uyghur and asked for assistance to fight against the Kirghiz.

The Tang asked that the princess be sent to Chang’an.The Tang asked that the princess be sent to Chang’an. She had lived for 22 years in an isolated country which was She had lived for 22 years in an isolated country which was

bleak and cold – in felt walls and woolen curtains and had bleak and cold – in felt walls and woolen curtains and had to eat and drink foods that were not palatable to her.to eat and drink foods that were not palatable to her.

She had been captured by the Kirghiz but was later rescued She had been captured by the Kirghiz but was later rescued by her husband and freed by a Chinese detachment.by her husband and freed by a Chinese detachment.

The Uyghurs and the Tang (4)The Uyghurs and the Tang (4)

In 843, The princess finally arrived in Chang’an where she In 843, The princess finally arrived in Chang’an where she was snubbed by the other imperial princesses and had to was snubbed by the other imperial princesses and had to acknowledge the Uyghur ungratefulness for China’s acknowledge the Uyghur ungratefulness for China’s kindnesses and her inability to pacify the foreigners.kindnesses and her inability to pacify the foreigners. The Tang had expected her to bring about a change in The Tang had expected her to bring about a change in

Uighur policies; yet she had no power in the Chinese court.Uighur policies; yet she had no power in the Chinese court. Her request for cattle and sheep to feed the famine-Her request for cattle and sheep to feed the famine-

stricken Uighurs was not met.stricken Uighurs was not met. In the mid 840s, the Tang court was faced with the problem In the mid 840s, the Tang court was faced with the problem

of how to deal with the two major groups as well as the other of how to deal with the two major groups as well as the other splinter groups all asking for asylum and assistance.splinter groups all asking for asylum and assistance. The Tang continued to refused military assistance but The Tang continued to refused military assistance but

promised to give them grain.promised to give them grain.

112/04/19 34

112/04/19 35

The Uyghurs and the Tang (5)The Uyghurs and the Tang (5) At the same time, the Tang beefed up the troops at the At the same time, the Tang beefed up the troops at the

borders.borders. The Tang admitted the first group and the leaders of the The Tang admitted the first group and the leaders of the

group were given positions and titles and incorporated group were given positions and titles and incorporated into the Tang army but the second group refused to into the Tang army but the second group refused to submit to the Chinese.submit to the Chinese.

The Tang ordered the Uyghur army unit to be dispersed The Tang ordered the Uyghur army unit to be dispersed and sent to different commanders; they refused and were and sent to different commanders; they refused and were massacred.massacred.

The Qidan attacked the Uyghur and in 848, the Kirghiz, The Qidan attacked the Uyghur and in 848, the Kirghiz, with an army of 70,000, wiped out the remaining with an army of 70,000, wiped out the remaining Uyghurs and those who escaped went to Gansu.Uyghurs and those who escaped went to Gansu.

The Tang welcomed the collapse of the Uyghurs but The Tang welcomed the collapse of the Uyghurs but without the Uyghurs, the Tang:without the Uyghurs, the Tang: Had no help to put down internal rebellions;Had no help to put down internal rebellions; There was no barrier between the Tang and the There was no barrier between the Tang and the

Qidans of the Manchurian steppe.Qidans of the Manchurian steppe.

112/04/19 36

Next WeekNext Week

The Qidans and the Liao DynastyThe Qidans and the Liao Dynasty Barfield, Thomas, Barfield, Thomas, The Perilous Frontier,The Perilous Frontier,”” pp pp

164-176; 164-176; Sinor, Denis, Sinor, Denis, Inner Asia, a Syllabus,Inner Asia, a Syllabus, ““Marriage, Kinship and Succession under the Marriage, Kinship and Succession under the

ChCh’’i-tan Rulers of the Liao Dynasty (907-1125) i-tan Rulers of the Liao Dynasty (907-1125) in Holmgren, Jennifer, in Holmgren, Jennifer, Marriage, Kinship and Marriage, Kinship and Power in Northern China, Power in Northern China, Part V, pp 44-91.Part V, pp 44-91.

Twitchett, Denis & Fairbank, John K., Twitchett, Denis & Fairbank, John K., The The Cambridge History of China: The Alien Cambridge History of China: The Alien Dynasties, (v2). Dynasties, (v2). pp 189-214.pp 189-214.