Volume 5: Annals of Emperor Xiao’an

In the first year of Yanping (106 AD), his father Qing moved to his kingdom, but Empress Dowager Deng issued a special edict to allow the Emperor to remain at the Qinghe residence.

In the eighth month, Emperor Shang passed away. The Empress Dowager and her brother, General of Chariots and Cavalry, Deng Zhi, determined the succession in the palace. That night, Deng Zhi carried the imperial token and used the Prince’s blue-canopied carriage to bring the Emperor, who purified himself in the palace. The Empress Dowager presided in the Chongde Hall, all officials wore ceremonial robes, and the assembled ministers performed the rites to appoint the Emperor as Marquis of Chang’an.

The Empress Dowager issued an edict:

“The late Emperor was holy and virtuous, yet departed the world early. I have served as regent, ever gazing in hope at the sun and moon, yearning for achievement. Who would have expected such a sudden end, that Heaven’s allotted years would not be fulfilled? It is with deep sorrow that my heart is broken. I consider that the King of Pingyuan has long suffered illness, and reflecting on the importance of the ancestral temple and the continuity of succession, the only suitable heir is Marquis Chang’an, Hu—whose disposition is loyal and filial, cautious and respectful, versed in the Poetry and the Analects, deeply dedicated to learning and fond of antiquity, benevolent and kindly toward the people. At thirteen years of age, he already has the aspiration of a grown man. In virtue and closeness to the imperial line, none surpass Hu. The Book of Rites says, ‘A brother’s son is as one’s own son.’ The meaning of the Spring and Autumn Annals is that he who serves as heir should serve as son, not rejecting the command of a father or grandfather. Let Hu be the successor to Emperor He, maintaining and honoring the ancestors, following the protocols and rites as presented.”

Furthermore, a formal proclamation was issued:

“In the autumn, eighth month, day of guichou, of the first year of Yanping, the Empress Dowager said: ‘Marquis Chang’an, Hu: Emperor He’s majestic virtue illuminated the world; the late Emperor did not enjoy the full span of Heaven’s years. I recognize that you are the legitimate imperial grandson of Emperor Xiaozhang, humble, respectful, kind, and diligent since youth, suitable to uphold the ancestral temples and inherit the grand enterprise. Now, I appoint you as successor to Emperor He. Rule the Han state with discernment and moderation. ‘When one man receives prosperity, all the people benefit by it.’ May the Emperor strive to fulfill these duties!’”

When the proclamation was read aloud, the Grand Commandant presented the imperial seal and ribbon. He immediately ascended the throne as Emperor at age thirteen. The Empress Dowager continued to administer government affairs.

In the ninth month, day gengzi, the Emperor visited the High Ancestral Temple. On the day xinchou, he paid respects at the temple of Emperor Guangwu. There were great floods across six provinces. On the day jiwei, court envoys were dispatched to make a survey, report the disasters, and distribute relief to those suffering from famine. On the day bingyin, the late Emperor Shang was buried at Kangling. On the day yihai, meteorites fell in Chenliu. The kingdoms of the Western Regions rebelled and attacked Protector-General Ren Shang; Deputy Commandant Liang Qin was sent to assist Ren Shang and defeated the rebels.

In winter, in the tenth month, four provinces experienced major flooding and hail. An imperial edict was issued stating that, as winter wheat was not maturing, relief and grain were to be given to the poor.

In the twelfth month, day jiazi, Prince Qinghe passed away. The Minister over the Masses was sent with the imperial token to condole and conduct the funeral rites, while General of Chariots and Cavalry Deng Zhi supervised the mourning. On the day yiyou, performances of aquatic and dragon spectacles and various entertainments were discontinued.

In the first year of Yongchu, in spring, on the first day of the first month, day gui-you, a general amnesty was granted across the empire. The Qiang tribes of Shu Commandery (beyond the frontier) submitted. On the day wu-yin, the southern division of Jianyuan was established under a commissioner for foreign countries. Relief was granted to poor people in the regions: the capital, Yanzhou, Yuzhou, Xuzhou, Jizhou, Bingzhou.

In the second month, bingwu, the imperial hunting grounds at Guangcheng and public fields in disaster-stricken counties were lent to the poor. On the day dingmao, Emperor’s brother Changbao was granted the title of King of Guangchuan for the region split from Qinghe. On the day gengwu, Minister over the Masses Liang Wei passed away.

In the third month, gui-you, there was a solar eclipse. The Emperor decreed that all senior and junior officials in the capital and provinces, county prefects and administrators, should each recommend one person who was upright, virtuous, possessed true learning, understood governance, understood past and present, and could offer direct and frank counsel. On the day jimao, the diminutive and outlandish tribes beyond Yongchang contributed tribute and submitted. On the day jiashen, King Qinghe was buried and honored with a dragon banner and tiger guards at the tomb.

In summer, May, on the day jiaxu, Chief of the Changle Guards Lu Gong was appointed as Minister over the Masses. On the day dingchou, an imperial edict appointed Shouguang Marquis Pu, grandson of King Mu of Beihai, as King of Beihai. The Nightlang Man tribes in Jiuzhen submitted with their territory.

In June, on day wushen, Empress Dowager’s mother Lady Yin was granted the title Lady of Xinye. On the day dingsi, subsidence struck in Hedong. On the day renxu, the office of Protector-General for the Western Regions was abolished.

The Qiang of Xianling rebelled, cutting off the Long Road and committing extensive raids and pillaging. General of Chariots and Cavalry Deng Zhi and Frontier Commandant Ren Shang were sent to suppress them. On the day dingmao, an imperial pardon was granted to those Qiang who had conspired with others in rebellion.

In autumn, seventh month, day wuchen, an imperial edict was issued:

“In ancient times, emperors ruled by following Heaven’s mandate and governing the people, all relying on the celestial mechanisms and jade balance to harmonize the seven political affairs. I, lacking virtue, have nevertheless followed the grand enterprise, but the yin and yang have been out of balance, and changes and anomalies have appeared. The people suffer hunger and displacement, while the Qiang and Mo tribes rebel and act violently. Night and day I restrain myself and worry intensely. Occasionally, I order the ministers, nobles, and local officials to recommend virtuous and upright men, searching broadly and widely, opening the path to unreserved counsel, hoping to obtain wise strategies to rectify my shortcomings. Yet those before me only heed trivial rhetoric, and there are no outstanding or unusual proposals. Let all officials and local administrators skilled in the knowledge and practice of disasters, yin and yang, the measure of celestial mechanisms and numbers report any changes. Let the senior officials publicly proclaim this edict widely and thoroughly, investigating mysterious and hidden matters. I shall personally examine them carefully, without preference, hoping to obtain excellent advice to fulfill Heaven’s command.”

In the intercalary month, on day xinchou, Prince Changbao of Guangchuan died without an heir, and his state was abolished. On day guwei, the Qiang tribes beyond the borders of Shu Commandery submitted and were incorporated as subjects.

In the ninth month, day gengzi, an edict was issued regarding officials and attendants of the kingdoms and royal families, from ink seal holders down to clerks and messengers. Those who were graduates and held scholarly posts, and who were known in their hometowns for integrity, filial piety, talent, and capability in governance, were to be annually nominated by their kingdoms and recommended to the central government for possible external appointment.

In winter, tenth month, day gengyin, relief was granted to the poor in Jiyin, Shanyang, and Xuantu. Frontier Commandant Ren Shang fought the rebellious Xianling Qiang at Pingxiang but suffered defeat.

In the eleventh month, day xinyou, Deng Zhi was appointed Grand General and summoned back to the capital, while Ren Shang was left to station in Longyou. The Xianling and Dianling Qiang proclaimed themselves kings in the Northern Territories, then raided the Three Attachments. They invaded Zhao and Wei to the east, and entered Yizhou to the south, killing the Administrator of Hanzhong, Dong Bing. On day xinmao of the twelfth month, relief was granted to the poor in Dong Commandery, Julu, Guangyang, Anding, Dingxiang, and Pei Commandery.

The wolf and Qiang tribes beyond the Great Han Pass surrendered, and the northern part of Guanghan was divided into a vassal commandery. That year, there were twelve earthquakes reported in the commanderies and kingdoms.

In the third year, spring, first month, day gengzi, the Emperor ceremonially came of age and changed the era name. A general amnesty was declared throughout the empire. Gifts of gold and silk were granted to kings, princes, nobles, ministers, and officials down to the clerk level. Men who tended their fathers’ graves as well as the elderly respected for filial piety and cultivated lands were raised two ranks in status, and displaced persons seeking membership were raised one rank. Cavalry Colonel Ren Ren was dispatched to attack the Xianling Qiang but was unsuccessful; the Qiang eventually devastated and destroyed Lin Tao. The kingdom of Goguryeo sent envoys to offer tribute.

In the third month, a great famine struck the capital, leading to cannibalism among the starving people. On day renchen, the nobles and officials came to the palace to express sorrow. An imperial edict said:

“I, young and inexperienced, have inherited the great task but failed to spread virtue and culture, causing Heaven’s balance to be upset, bringing widespread famine and starvation that has driven people to consume each other. I permanently mourn this and feel as if I have fallen into an abyss. The fault lies with me, not with my officials, and I humbly accept responsibility for the court’s lack of virtue. I will seek change and recovery to remedy my shortcomings.”

On day guisi, an edict granted the use of a grand reservoir to the poor for irrigation. On day renyin, Minister over the Masses Lu Gong was dismissed.

In summer, fourth month, day bingyin, Grand Minister of Ceremonies Xia Qin of Jiujiang was appointed Minister over the Masses.

The Three Excellencies, citing insufficient national revenue, proposed that officials and clerks contribute money and grain, in return receiving ranks such as Inner Pass Marquis, Tiger Guards and Feathered Forest attendants, Five Ministers, government clerks, Tiqui cavalry, and camp soldiers—each with different ranks.

On the day jisi, an edict declared that lands in the Shanglin and Guangcheng Gardens suitable for cultivation were to be allocated and taxed in favor of the poor. On the day jiashen, King Hu Wei of Qinghe passed away.

In May, on the day bingshen, the favored son of King Le’an, Yanping, was enfeoffed as King of Qinghe. On the day dingyou, King Zheng of Pei passed away. On the day guichou, a great windstorm hit the capital. In June, the Wuhuan raided Dai, Shanggu, and Zhuo commanderies.

In the autumn, seventh month, pirates Zhang Bolu and others raided along the nine coastal commanderies. The imperial inspector Pang Xiong was dispatched to oversee the troops of the province and commanderies, and successfully defeated them. On the day gengzi, an edict ordered local officials to cultivate winter wheat and vegetables, striving to make full use of the land, and to provide seed subsidies to the poor.

In September, the Yanmen Wuhuan and Xianbei tribes rebelled, defeating the army of Wuyuan commandery in the Gaoqu Valley.

In winter, tenth month, the Southern Chanyu (Xiongnu leader) rebelled, besieging Commander Geng Zhong at Meiji. In November, General of Chariots and Cavalry He Xi was sent to suppress the rebellion. On the day xinyou of the twelfth month, nine earthquakes were reported across the commanderies and kingdoms. On the day yihai, a comet appeared in the Celestial Gardens. That year, the capital and commanderies suffered forty-one incidents of heavy rain and hail. Bingzhou and Liangzhou experienced great famines, leading to cannibalism.

On the first day of the first month in spring of the fourth year, a festival was held; the music was ceased, and the imperial chariot was not displayed in the palace court. On the day xinmao, an edict was issued declaring that due to disorder and raids in the Three Attachments, many people had become refugees or displaced. Consequently, three years’ back taxes, overdue rent, household registrations, and corvée were forgiven; relief was provided to the poor of Shang Commandery according to their status.

Pirates Zhang Bolu again allied with the fierce bandits Liu Wenhe and Zhou Wenguang from Bohai and Pingyuan, attacking Yanxi and killing the county magistrate. Inspector Wang Zong was dispatched to supervise Qingzhou, and the provincial governor Fa Xiong led troops to defeat the bandits. General Liang Qin and Governor Geng Kui of Liaodong defeated the Southern Chanyu at the old territory of the vassal state. On the day bingwu, an edict was issued to reduce the tributes and stipends of officials and those in the provinces, commanderies, and counties accordingly.

On the day dingsi of the second month, relief was granted to the poor of Jiujiang. The Southern Xiongnu raided Changshan. On the day yichou, the offices of Commandant of the Garrisons of Chang’an and Yong were established for the first time. On the day yihai, an edict declared that since the beginning of the Jianchu era, all heretical teachings and those guilty of wrongdoing and banished to the frontiers should return to their original commanderies; those confiscated by the government and made slaves were to be pardoned and restored as common people.

An edict was issued for Palace Attendant Liu Zhen and the Five Classics scholars to collate and correct the versions of the Five Classics, various philosophical works, biographies, and texts of the Hundred Schools of thought from the Eastern Lodge, to standardize and rectify errors, thus establishing the correct text.

In the third month, the Southern Chanyu surrendered. The Xianling Qiang raided Baozhong, and the Administrator of Hanzhong, Zheng Qin, died in battle. The officials of Jincheng Commandery were relocated to Xiangwu.

On the day wuzu, a fire broke out at the Duling Garden. On the day guisi, nine earthquakes were reported across the commanderies and kingdoms. In the fourth month of summer, locusts devastated six provinces. On the day dingchou, a general amnesty was declared throughout the empire.

In autumn, seventh month, on the day yiyou, heavy flooding occurred in the three commanderies. On the day jimao, Cavalry Commandant Ren Ren was imprisoned and died. In September, on the day jiashen, an earthquake occurred in Yizhou Commandery.

In winter, tenth month, on the day jiaxu, Lady Yin, Lady of Xinye, passed away. The Minister over the Masses was sent with the imperial token to oversee the funeral rites. Grand General Deng Zhi was dismissed from office.

In the fifth year, spring, on the first day of the first month, a solar eclipse occurred. On the day bingshu, ten earthquakes were reported across the commanderies and kingdoms. On the day jichou, Grand Commandant Zhang Yu was dismissed. On the day jiashen, Grand Master of the Palace Li Xiu was appointed Grand Commandant.

On the day dingmao of the second month, an edict ordered the reduction of the contributions and stipends for officials in the commanderies and kingdoms. The Xianling Qiang raided Hedong and eventually reached Henei.

In the third month, an edict ordered the relocation of people from Longxi to Xiangwu, from Anding to Meiyang, from Beidi to Chiyang, and from Shang Commandery to Ya. The Fuyu barbarians breached the border, killing and injuring officials and people. In the intercalary month, on the day dingyou, a general amnesty was issued for the four commanderies of Hexi in Liangzhou.

On the day wuxu, an imperial edict was issued:

“I, lacking virtue, serve at the suburban altars and continue the grand enterprise, yet I have failed to inspire harmony and encourage goodness or to bring blessing to the people. Disasters and anomalies arise in succession; bandits and marauders roam freely; the barbarians and Huaxia quarrel; military conflicts never cease; the people are impoverished and weary from conscription. Worsening this, locusts have multiplied and destroyed the ripening wheat; the autumn harvest is just beginning and this is truly lamentable. I am unenlightened and unable to govern properly, and I have yet to find loyal and capable ministers to assist me in state affairs. The saying goes, ‘If a person stumbles and no one supports him, if he is in danger and no one holds him up, what use is there for a helper?’ Ministers and noblemen, how will you help resolve this crisis and uphold Heaven’s mandate? Indeed, the root of governance lies in finding the right people, honoring the worthy and displaying virtue, as the sage’s precedent showed: ‘Many able men gathered, and King Wen’s realm was at peace.’ I must find sincere, loyal, and upright officials to assist in what I cannot accomplish myself. I therefore command the Three Excellencies, Grand Masters, Marquises, Ministers of the Second Rank, Commandery Governors, and vassals to each nominate one virtuous, upright, knowledgeable in the arts of governance and transformation, and able to offer sincere and extreme advice, especially those distinguished by filial piety and uniqueness among their peers, and send them to court. I shall personally examine them.”

In June, on the day jiachen, King Lecheng passed away during an inspection tour.

In autumn, seventh month, on the day jisi, an edict was issued to the Three Excellencies, Grand Masters, the Nine Ministers, and the Colonels to select heirs of military generals who are knowledgeable and experienced in warfare and appointments as commanders. In September, Han Yang natives Du Qi and Wang Xin rebelled, allying with various Xianling Qiang tribes to capture Shanggui City. In December, the Administrator of Hanyang, Zhao Bo, sent assassins to kill Du Qi.

That year, locusts devastated the nine provinces, and eight commanderies experienced heavy rainfall.

In the sixth year, spring, first month, on the day gengshen, an edict ordered the establishment of three new royal parks in Yuexi: Changli, Gaowang, and Shichang. Additionally, parks were established in Yizhou and Jianyuan, and Hanping Park was established in Jianyuan. In March, locusts devastated ten provinces. In summer, fourth month, on the day yichou, Minister of Works Zhang Min was dismissed. On the day jimao, Minister of Ceremonies Liu Kai was appointed Minister of Works.

In May, a drought occurred. On the day bingyin, an edict ordered that officials from the Ministers of the Second Rank down to those wearing yellow ribbons were to have their positions restored, together with the ranks conferred upon them. On the day wuchen, the Empress Dowager visited Luoyang Temple, recorded prisoner cases, and reviewed grievances and injustices.

In June, on the day renchen, landslides occurred in Yuzhang, Yuanxi, and Yuanshan. On the day xinsi, a general amnesty was declared. Imperial Envoy Tang Xi was sent to capture and execute the bandit Wang Xin in Hanyang. In winter, eleventh month, on the day xinchou, Colonel Wu Zhi of the Wuhuan was imprisoned and died in custody. That year, the leader of the Xianling Qiang, Dianling, died; his son Lingchang succeeded him, maintaining a counterfeit title.

In the seventh year, spring, first month, on the day gengxu, the Empress Dowager led the court officials and noblewomen to pay respects at the ancestral temple. In February, on the day bingwu, eighteen earthquakes struck the commanderies and kingdoms. In summer, April, on the day yiwei, King Sheng of Pingyuan died. On the last day of the third month, on day bingshen, a solar eclipse occurred. In May, on the day gengzi, the capital experienced a great rainfall.

In autumn, Grand Protector of the Qiang Hou Ba and Cavalry Commandant Ma Xian defeated the Xianling Qiang.

In the eighth month, on the day bingshen, a strong windstorm swept through the capital, and locusts flew over Luoyang. An edict was issued granting noble ranks to the people. In commanderies and kingdoms where locusts damaged more than fifteen percent of crops, no land tax was to be collected for that year; for those with less damage, taxes were to be reduced accordingly.

In September, rice taxes from Lingling, Guiyang, Yuzhang, and Kuaiji commanderies were reassigned to aid famine victims in Nanyang, Guangling, Xiapi, Pengcheng, Shanyang, Lujiang, and Jiujiang; grain from Binshui County was also directed to warehouse stores.

On the first day of the first month of the first year of Yuanchu, a new era name was declared: Yuanchu. Titles were granted to the populace, raising their social rank by two levels; those known for filial piety and diligent farming were raised three levels; those above the rank of Duke and carriage owner could transfer their rank to their sons or sons of the same rank; commoners without formal registration and displaced persons seeking status were raised one level. Widows, orphans, the disabled, and the extremely poor unable to support themselves were granted three hu (a measure) of grain; virtuous widows were given one bolt of silk.

In the second month, on the day jimou, the land split in the south. In the third month, on the day guiyou, a solar eclipse occurred. In the fourth month of summer, on the day dingyou, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire.

The capital and commanderies suffered five droughts and locust infestations. An edict ordered the Three Excellencies, Grand Masters, Marquises, ministers of the second rank, commandery governors, and others to each nominate one honest and upright man.

In May, the Xianling Qiang raided Yongcheng. In June, on the day dingsi, land subsidence occurred in Hedong.

In autumn, the Yizu barbarians of Shu Commandery raided Canling and killed the county magistrate.

In September, on the day yichou, Grand Commandant Li Xiu was dismissed. The Xianling Qiang raided Wudu and Hanzhong, severing the Long Road. On the day xinwei, Minister of Agriculture Sima Bao of Shanyang was appointed Grand Commandant. In winter, tenth month, first day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred.

The Xianling Qiang defeated Liangzhou Inspector Piyang at Didao. On the day yiyou, an edict abolished three years of land tax, overdue rent, household registration fees, and corvée labor in the Three Attachments region. In November, that year, fifteen earthquakes struck the commanderies and kingdoms.

In the second year, spring, an edict granted relief to the poor displaced persons in the Three Attachments, Bing, and Liang prefectures. The Qiang barbarians of Qingyi Mountain in Shu Commandery submitted and were incorporated. The irrigation channel originally created by Ximen Bao along the Zhang River was repaired to water the people’s fields.

On the day wudou of the second month, palace attendants were sent to collect and perform funerary rites for guests who had died in the capital without relatives and whose coffins and burial materials had decayed; for those with families but unable to afford burial, money amounting to five thousand units was granted. On the day xinyou, an edict ordered the repair of old canals in the regions of the Three Attachments, Henei, Hedong, Shangdang, Zhao, and Taiyuan to improve water flow for public and private farmlands.

In the third month, on the day guihai, a strong windstorm hit the capital. The Xianling Qiang raided Yizhou, and General Yin Jiu was sent to suppress them. In summer, fourth month, day bingwu, noblewoman Yan was established as Empress.

In May, there was a drought in the capital, and nineteen provinces and commanderies suffered locust infestations. On the day jiaxu, an edict declared:

“The court is unclear and affairs are mismanaged; disasters and anomalies continue endlessly, causing grief and worry. The locust plague has lasted here for seven years, yet the prefectures and commanderies have concealed the extent of the damage, understating the affected acreage. Now the swarms darken the sky, causing widespread harm. Are the reports truthful and reliable? The Three Departments are responsible for oversight inside and outside, yet they neither report accurately nor recommend rectification. The disasters are severe, and deception is a serious offense. It is now midsummer, but loans have been given in vain—let us observe what follows. We must devote efforts to disaster relief and calming the people.”

On the day bingshu of the sixth month, Grand Commandant Sima Bao passed away. The new city of Luoyang suffered land fissures. In the seventh month, on the day xinsi, Grand Minister of the Imperial Household Ma Ying was appointed Grand Commandant.

In August, the Xianbei of Liaodong besieged Wulu County. In September, they attacked Fuli Camp again, killing the county magistrate. On the last day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred.

In winter, tenth month, General of the Central Army Ren Shang was stationed in the Three Attachments. An edict ordered that prisoners held in commanderies and kingdoms with death sentences reduced by one degree were not to be flogged; they were to be transferred to the garrisons of Fengyi and Fufeng with their wives and children accompanying them for settlement; women were not to be transported. Those guilty of crimes worse than fugitives could redeem their sentences under different terms. Officials who had become bandits but showed remorse would be pardoned. On the day yiwei, Right Fufeng District Magistrate Zhong Guang, Anding Prefect Du Hui, and Capital Tiger Teeth Commander Geng Pu fought the Xianling Qiang at Dingxi City, suffering great defeat and death. Left Fengyi Inspecting Officer Sima Jun was imprisoned and committed suicide.

In November, on the day gengshen, ten earthquakes occurred across the commanderies and kingdoms.

In December, the Lichong and Lizhong tribes in Wuling rebelled but were defeated by the provinces and commanderies. On the day jiyou, Minister over the Masses Xia Qin was dismissed. On the day gengxu, Minister of Works Liu Kai was appointed Minister over the Masses, and Grand Minister of the Household Yuan Chang was appointed Minister of Works.

In the third year, spring, on the day jiaxu, repairs were made to the old canals of Taiyuan to irrigate official and private fields. People in Eastern Ping and Lushang reported trees growing intertwined.

The Cang, Yulin, and Hepu barbarian tribes rebelled. In the second month, Inspector Ren Chou was sent to oversee provincial and commandery troops to suppress them. Ten earthquakes struck commanderies and kingdoms.

In March, on the day xinhai, a solar eclipse occurred. On the day bingchen, pardons were issued for officials in Cangwu, Yulin, Hepu, and Nanhai who had been coerced to become rebels. In summer, April, a drought struck the capital.

In May, the Wuling barbarians rebelled again but were suppressed by provinces and commanderies. On the day guiyou, General of the Frontier Defense Deng Zun led the Southern Xiongnu to defeat the Xianling Qiang at Lingzhou. The Yi tribes beyond Yuexi submitted and were incorporated. In June, Central Army General Ren Shang led troops to defeat the Xianling Qiang at Dingxi City.

In autumn, seventh month, the Wuling barbarians rebelled once more but were suppressed by the provinces and commanderies. The gou region experienced earth fissures. In September, on the day xinji, King Hong of Zhao died.

In winter, eleventh month, the Cangwu, Yulin, and Hepu barbarian tribes surrendered. On the day bingxu, officials, ministers of the second rank, and inspectors were first allowed to conduct mourning for three years. On the day guimao, nine earthquakes occurred across the commanderies and kingdoms. In December, on the day dingsi, Ren Shang led troops to defeat the Xianling Qiang in the Northern Territories.

In the fourth year, spring, on the new moon day yisi of the second month, there was a solar eclipse. On the day yimao, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire. On the day renshu, a fire broke out in the armory.

In summer, fourth month, on the day wushen, Minister of Works Yuan Chang passed away. On the day jisi, the Xianbei raided Liaoxi; the troops of Liaoxi Commandery, allied with the Wuhuan, defeated them. On the day dingchou of the fifth month, Minister of Ceremonies Li He was appointed Minister of Works. On the day wuchen of the sixth month, hailstorms struck three commanderies.

In autumn, seventh month, on day xinchou, King Chen Jun passed away.

The capital and commanderies experienced ten heavy rain events. An edict stated:

“This year’s autumn crops grew well and are nearing harvest, yet continuous rains have not ceased, and there is fear they will be damaged by flooding. At night I remain vigilant, deeply concerned and reflecting on our mistakes. Continuous rain is caused by the people’s resentment. Military officers use force and violence to oppress the people; civil officials act arbitrarily and harshly; local officials commit abuses under the pretext of duty, causing great suffering to the common people. The authorities must clearly punish these wrongdoers. The ‘Monthly Ordinance’ says, ‘In mid-autumn, care for the aged, provide mats and canes, and serve gruel porridge.’ Yet now, compared to that time, most prefectures and counties fail to implement this. Even where gruel is given, it is half chaff; senior officials are negligent and lack personal commitment, severely violating the imperial edict to care for the elderly. Efforts must promote kindness and forgiveness, provide relief to orphans and widows, fulfilling my intentions.”

In September, Protector of the Qiang Ren Shang sent an assassin to kill the rebellious Qiang leader Lingchang. In winter, eleventh month, on the day yimao, King Gong of Pengcheng died. In December, the Yuexi tribes rebelled again, killing the county magistrate.

On the day jiazi, Ren Shang and Cavalry Commander Ma Xian fought the Xianling Qiang at the upper river near Fuping, decisively defeating them. The Qianren Qiang led many to surrender, pacifying Longyou. That year, thirteen earthquakes were reported in the commanderies and kingdoms.

In the fifth year, spring, the Yuexi tribes rebelled.

In the second month, on the day renshu, King Xian of Zhongshan died. In March, the capital and commanderies experienced five droughts, and an edict granted relief to the poor affected by drought. In summer, June, Goguryeo and the Huibo tribes raided Xuantu. In autumn, seventh month, the Yuexi barbarians and Maoniuhao rebels rose again, killing local officials.

On the day bingzi, an edict decreed:

“Old regulations and systems have established ranks and categories, intending the people to uphold frugality. At the start of the Yuanchu era, people lived simply, the court adopted humility, abandoning luxury; food lacked variety, garments had no secondary adornments. In recent years, though harvests have been abundant, reserves remain scarce. Yet petty people lack foresight and do not plan for the long term, indulging in weddings and funerals with excessive elegance and wastefulness. There are servants and slaves dressed in fine silk and adorned with jewels. If the capital is like this, how can it set a good example for the four corners? Regulations and prohibitions have been made clear and sincere, but officials are lazy and do not enforce them. The autumn festival has been established; birds of prey will soon come (punishment). This is restated to observe the effects hereafter.”

On the new moon day bingshen of the eighth month, a solar eclipse occurred. The Xianbei raided Dai Commandery, killing the principal officials. In winter, tenth month, the Xianbei raided Shanggu. In December, on the day jisi, Central Army General Ren Shang was found guilty of crimes and was abandoned at the market. That year, fourteen earthquakes struck throughout the commanderies and kingdoms.

In the sixth year, spring, on the new moon day yisi of the second month, forty-two earthquakes occurred in the capital and commanderies, some causing fissures in the earth and the emergence of springs. On the day rinzi, an edict was issued commanding the Three Departments to select five officials each from among those aged and skilled in animal husbandry and farming who achieved high ranks. The Grand Master of the Household and Central Army Generals selected fifty filial, honest, and capable officials to serve as magistrates, governors, clerks, and officers.

On the day yimao, an edict stated:

“Good governance begins with the capital and then extends to all the regions. According to the ‘Monthly Ordinance,’ in mid-spring, the young and orphans should be cared for; in late spring, aid is to be given to the poor and destitute, and chaste women are to be recognized. This follows the natural yang energy and honors life and growth. Special provisions of three hu of grain are to be given to the extremely poor, orphans, the weak, and the lone; ten hu of grain and recognition are to be given to virtuous women of integrity, marked with badges of honor.”

On the day gengchen of the third month, six ancestral temples were established and dedicated northwest of Luoyang.

In summer, fourth month, a serious epidemic struck Kuaiji. The Grand Master of the Household was sent with imperial physicians to distribute medicine, coffins were provided, and land and household taxes were remitted. In Peiguo and Bohai, strong winds and hailstorms occurred. In May, drought afflicted the capital. On the day dingchou of the sixth month, King Bin of Yuecheng passed away. On the day bingshu, King De of Pingyuan passed away.

In autumn, seventh month, the Xianbei raided Macheng. General of Frontier Defense Deng Zun led the Southern Chanyu to defeat them. In September, on the day guisi, King Song of Chen passed away. On the new moon day wuwu of the twelfth month, a solar eclipse occurred. That year, eight earthquakes were reported in the commanderies and kingdoms.

That year, the Yuexi and Shu tribes of Yizhou rebelled and, with allied Yuexi barbarians, killed local officials and burned cities. Yizhou Inspector Zhang Qiao defeated them and accepted their surrender.

In the first year of Yongning, spring, on the day jiachen of the first month, King An of Rencheng passed away. In March, on the day dingyou, King Shou of Jibei died.

The Chishi Hou king rebelled and killed his divisional commander. The Shen Di Qiang raided Zhangye.

In summer, fourth month, on the day bingyin, the emperor appointed Prince Bao as Crown Prince, changed the era name to Yongning, and declared a general amnesty. Gold and silk were granted to kings, princes, grand ministers, marquises, officials, clerks, and attendants; titles and cloth and grain were given to the people according to rank. On the day jisi, Prince Chong, son of King Xian of Chen, was enfeoffed as King of Chen; Prince Chang, son of King Shou of Jibei, was enfeoffed as King of Yuecheng; Prince Yi, son of King of Hejian, was enfeoffed as King of Pingyuan. On the day renwu, King Shou of Langya died.

In June, the Shen Di Qiang tribe rebelled and raided Zhangye; Protector of the Qiang Ma Xian defeated the Shen Di Qiang. In autumn, seventh month, day yiyou, a solar eclipse occurred. In winter, tenth month, day jisi, Minister of Works Li He was dismissed. On the day guiyou, Lujiang Official Chen Bao was appointed Minister of Works. From March to this month, thirty-three major storms and rains were recorded in the capital and commanderies.

In December, envoys from the Dian kingdom near Yongchang submitted tribute. On the day wuchen, Minister over the Masses Liu Kai was dismissed. The Xianbei of Liaoxi submitted. On the day guiyou, Minister of Ceremonies Yang Zhen was appointed Minister over the Masses. That year, twenty-three earthquakes occurred in the commanderies and kingdoms. The King of Fuyu sent his son to the capital to offer tribute. The Shaodang Qiang rebelled.

In the first year of Jianguang, spring, the governor of Youzhou, Feng Huan, led the two commandery governors to attack Goguryeo and the Huibo tribes but did not succeed.

In the second month, on the day guihai, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire. Gifts of money and cloth were granted to the noblewomen of the gardens, kings, princes, dukes, and officials down to clerks according to rank. Sons of dukes, ministers, colonels, and palace secretaries were appointed as clerks and attendants.

In the third month, on the day guisi, Empress Dowager Deng died. On the day bingwu, Empress He Xi was buried. On the day dingwei, King Chong of Le’an passed away. On the day wushen, Emperor Qinghe was posthumously honored as Emperor Xiaode. The Emperor’s mother, Lady Zuo, was posthumously named Empress Xiaode. The Emperor’s grandmother, Lady Song, was posthumously named Empress Jingyin.

In summer, fourth month, the Huibo and Xianbei raided Liaodong again. Governor Cai Feng pursued and died in battle. On the day bingchen, Guangchuan and Qinghe kingdoms were combined. On the day disi, Empress Xiaode’s primary consort Lady Geng was titled Grand Noble Lady of Ganling. On the day jiazi, King Chang of Yuecheng was convicted and demoted to Marquis of Linhu. On the day jisi, officials, ministers, grand ministers, marquises, ministers of the second rank, commandery governors, and nobles each nominated one virtuous man. Three hu of grain were granted to widows, orphans, the lonely, and the extremely poor unable to provide for themselves. On the day jiaxu, Liaodong vassal commandant Pang Fen, holding a forged imperial seal, killed the Xuantu Administrator Yao Guang.

On the day gengchen of the fifth month, Grand Master Deng Zhi and General of Frontier Defense Deng Zun both committed suicide after being slandered. On the day bingshen, Prince Yi of Pingyuan was demoted to Marquis of Duxiang. In autumn, seventh month, on the day jimao, the era name was changed to Jianguang, and a general amnesty was declared throughout the empire. On the day renyin, Grand Commandant Ma Ying died.

In August, on the new moon day bingshen, Protector of the Qiang Ma Xian campaigned against the Shaodang Qiang at Jincheng but was unsuccessful. On the day jiazi, former Minister over the Masses Liu Kai was appointed Grand Commandant.

The Xianbei raided Juyong Pass. In September, Yunzhong Prefect Cheng Yan engaged them in battle and died. The Xianbei besieged the Wuhuan Protector at Macheng; General of Frontier Defense Geng Kui came to their rescue. On the day wuzi, the Emperor visited the Weiwei residence. That autumn, there were twenty-nine heavy rain events in the capital and commanderies.

In winter, eleventh month, on the day jichou, thirty-five earthquakes struck the commanderies and kingdoms, some causing fissures. An edict was issued commanding all officials down to the Three Excellencies submit memorials reviewing gains and losses. The Grand Master of the Household was dispatched to conduct inspections, and families of the deceased were granted two thousand coins. Land taxes for that year were waived, and for those severely affected, household taxes were also exempted.

The Xianbei raided Xuantu.

On the day gengzi, the government restored officials of rank two thousand stones and above to observe three years’ mourning. On the day guimao, the Three Excellencies, Grand Masters, Marquises, ministers, and colonels were ordered to each recommend five capable and brave generals. On the day bingwu, an edict reduced land tax in the capital and commanderies for crops damaged by rain and floods. On the day jiazi, the Yuyang garrison was established.

In winter, twelfth month, Goguryeo, Ma Han, and Huibo tribes besieged Xuantu city, but the King of Fuyu sent his son with forces, and together with provinces and commanderies defeated them.

In the first year of Yan’guang, spring, second month, the King of Fuyu sent his son with troops to assist Xuantu, defeating the Goguryeo, Ma Han, and Huibo, and sent envoys to offer tribute.

In March, on the day bingwu, the era name was changed to Yan’guang. A general amnesty was declared. Displaced persons returning were restored to their households and records. Titles were granted to the people with social rank raised two levels for elders, filial persons, and farmers; widows, orphans, the disabled, and the extremely poor unable to support themselves were granted three hu of grain; chaste widows were given two bolts of silk.

In summer, fourth month, on the day guiwei, twenty-one heavy rain and hail events occurred in the capital and commanderies. On the day jisi, Minister of Works Chen Bao was dismissed.

On the day gengxu of the fifth month, Liu Shou of the Clan Office of Pengcheng was appointed Minister of Works. On the day jisi, the kingdom of Yuecheng was renamed Anping; Prince De of Hejian’s son De was enfeoffed as King of Anping. In June, locusts plagued commanderies. In autumn, seventh month, on the day yimao, twenty-seven earthquakes struck the capital and commanderies.

Goguryeo surrendered. The Qianren Qiang rebelled again, attacking Guluo city, but General Geng Kui defeated them.

In the eighth month, on day wuzi, a fire broke out in the royal tombs at Yangling Garden. On the day xinyou, the Huanglong omen appeared with no lasting effect in Jiuzhen. On the day jihai, an edict ordered the Three Excellencies and ministers of the second rank to recommend officials such as inspectors, magistrates, governors, and chancellors who served from one to ten years, known for integrity, care for people, preventing corruption, and benefiting others. There were no official restrictions in nominations. Inspectors nominated officials from their jurisdiction, while governors selected candidates with genuine loyalty, forbidding superficial or flashy appointments.

In September, on the day jiaxu, twenty-seven earthquakes struck the commanderies and kingdoms. In winter, tenth month, the Xianbei raided Yanmen and Dingxiang. In November, the Xianbei raided Taiyuan. The Shaodang Qiang chiefs surrendered.

In December, the barbarian tribes beyond Jiuzhen submitted and offered tribute.

That year, the capital and commanderies suffered twenty-seven heavy rainstorms, strong winds that killed people. There was an edict granting 2,000 coins to the families of children seven years or older who drowned or were crushed; three hu of grain to those whose homes or food stores were destroyed; all land taxes were waived for flooded or damaged fields. If an entire household was affected but some weak members survived, local officials were to collect taxes accordingly. The Qianren Qiang rebelled again, attacking Guluo city, but General Geng Kui crushed the rebellion.

In the second year, spring, the Maoniu tribe rebelled, raiding Lingguan and killing the county magistrate. The Inspector of Yizhou’s western region led troops to quell the rebellion. An edict ordered the selection of clerks and officials versed in the ancient texts, including the Shangshu, Mao Shi, and Guliang Chunqiu—one from each. On the day bingchen, strong winds struck Hedong and Yingchuan.

In summer, sixth month, on the day renwu, eleven strong winds swept the commanderies and kingdoms. An auspicious sign appeared in Jiuzhen. On the day bingshen, King Pu of Beihai died. In autumn, seventh month, a landslide occurred at Danyang.

In the eighth month, on day gengwu, the authorities first ordered clerks with three or more years of service knowledgeable in the classics and skilled in governance to be eligible for promotions. In September, five rainstorms struck the commanderies.

In winter, tenth month, day xinwei, Minister over the Masses Liu Kai was dismissed. On the day jiaxu, Minister over the Masses Yang Zhen was appointed. On the day jiachen of the eleventh month, there was a grand hunt at the Shanglin Park. The Xianbei defeated the Southern Xiongnu at Manbo.

That year, the western part of Shu Commandery was divided into vassal commanderies. The capital and commanderies experienced three earthquakes.

In the third year, spring, second month, on the day bingsi, the emperor toured the east. On the day dingchou, he informed the magistrate of Chenliu to offer sacrifices to the Lord of Nandong and Emperor Guangwu at Jiyang and remitted that year’s land and corvée taxes. On the day gengyin, an envoy was sent to honor the sage Tang Yao at Chengyang. On the day wuzu, a memorial from Jinan reported a phoenix nesting at Tai County official’s house. The County Magistrate was granted fifty bolts of silk, his assistant twenty, his captain ten, and his clerks three each. The locale where the phoenix passed was exempted from land tax that year. Men were granted rank with a two-level social promotion. On the day xinyou, the emperor visited Mount Tai and offered sacrifices to Mount Dai. Kings Wuji of Qi, Yi of Beihai, and Yan of Le’an came to pay homage. On the day renchen, ancestral sacrifices were performed to the Five Emperors at Mount Wen. On the day guisi, sacrifices were made to the Second Ancestor, the Six Clans, and rewards given to commanderies and counties with music arranged.

In March, on the day jiawu, King Chong of Chen passed away. On the day wuxu, sacrifices were made to Confucius and his seventy-two disciples at the Imperial Academy. From nobles to officials and relatives of the Kong family all assembled and received silk according to rank. The emperor returned and visited Dongping, then Dong Commandery, Wei Commandery, and Henan. On the day jiaxu, the emperor returned to the capital and visited the Imperial Academy. On the day gengshen, Minister over the Masses Yang Zhen was dismissed.

In summer, fourth month, on the day yichou, the emperor entered the palace and paid respects at the ancestral temples. On the day renshu, the magistrate of Peiguo reported the descent of sweet dew at Feng County. On the day wuchen, Grand Master of the Household Feng Shi was appointed Grand Commandant.

In May, the left Southern Xiongnu chieftain rebelled but General Ma Yi quelled the rebellion, and the tribes beyond the southern border submitted.

In June, the Xianbei raided Xuantu. On the day gengwu, a landslide occurred at Langzhong. On the day xinyou, reports in Fufeng noted white deer sighted in Yong. On the day xinsi, an imperial censor was sent to the Qing and Ji provinces to oversee disaster relief and suppress banditry. In autumn, seventh month, on the day dingyou, the right and left commandants’ deputy officials were restored.

Barbarian tribal chiefs beyond the southern border brought tribute to the capital.

On the reports from Fengyi, sweet dew was said to have fallen in Pingyang and Ya; memorials from Yingchuan spoke of intertwined trees; white deer and qilin were seen in Yangdi. The Xianbei raided Gaoliu. King Jian of Liang died.

In August, on the day xinsi, Grand Minister of Ceremonies Geng Bao was appointed Grand General. On the day wuzi, a qilin was reported in Yingchuan and two white tigers were seen. In September, on the day dingyou, Crown Prince Bao was deposed and made Prince of Jiyin.

On the day yisi, an edict ordered officials and prisoners with death sentences reduced by one degree to be sent to Dunhuang, Longxi, and the Frontier Defense camps, while minor criminals and fugitives could redeem their sentences according to set rules. On the day xinhai, a yellow dragon was sighted at Licheng. On the last day of the month gengshen, a solar eclipse occurred.

In winter, tenth month, the emperor toured Chang’an. On the day renwu, a phoenix was sighted at the western border pavilion. On the day dinghai, governors and officials of the Three Attachments gathered in Chang’an to hold a grand ceremony and music. In the intercalary month, on the day yiwei, sacrifices were made at the Grand Temple and the Eleven Imperial Tombs, and the Shanglin Park and Kunming Pool were visited. Envoys were dispatched to offer sacrifices to the Grand Emperor at Wannian, and to memorialize Xiao He, Cao Can, and Huo Guang in the central temple. On the day yiwu of the eleventh month, the emperor returned from Chang’an.

In December, on the day yiwei, envoys from Langya reported a sighting of a yellow dragon in various counties. That year, the capital and commanderies experienced twenty-three earthquakes; thirty-six heavy rainfalls; strong winds; and hail. In the fourth year, spring, on the day renwu of the first month, envoys from Dong Commandery reported two yellow dragons and one qilin in Puyang. In the second month, King Yan of Xiapi died. On the day jiachen, the emperor toured the south.

On the new moon day wuwu of the third month, a solar eclipse occurred. On the day gengshen, the emperor visited Wan. The emperor fell ill. On the day xinyou, General Geng Bao was entrusted with the duties of Grand Commandant. Sacrifices were made at Zhangling and Changsha Temples, informing the Prefects of Changsha and Lingling, and sacrifices were made to King Ding, Marquis Jie, and the Lord of Yulin Prefecture. On the day yichou, the emperor returned from Wan. On the day dingmao, the emperor visited Ye. The emperor died in his carriage at the age of thirty-two. The death was kept a secret, and daily reports on his eating and resting habits were maintained to conceal his death. On the day gengwu, the emperor’s coffin was returned to the palace. On the evening of the day xinwei, the mourning rites began. The Empress was honored as Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager ruled on behalf of the emperor, appointing her elder brother Yan Xian as General of Chariots and Cavalry, who established policies and reformed the palace administration. The grandson of the emperor, Prince Shouzi of Jibei, was named Marquis of Beixiang. On the day jiaxu, King Xiang of Jinan died. On the day yiyou, Marquis of Beixiang ascended the throne.

In summer, fourth month, on the day dingyou, Grand Commandant Feng Shi was appointed Grand Tutor, Minister over the Masses Liu Xi became Grand Commandant, participating in Secretariat affairs, and former Minister of Works Li He was appointed Minister over the Masses. On the day xinyou, General Geng Bao, Central Palace Attendant Fan Feng, Palace Attendant Xie Yun, Zhou Guang, and nurse Ye Jun, were implicated in factionalism, with Fan, Xie, and Zhou imprisoned and dying in custody, Geng Bao committing suicide, and Ye Jun was exiled to Yanmen. On the day jiyou, Emperor Xiao’an was buried at Gongling, with the temple named Gongzong.

In June, on the day yisi, a general amnesty was issued. An edict stated that the previous emperor’s favored touring areas were to have half tax remission on land rent for that year. In autumn, seventh month, the Western Regions Deputy Ban Yong defeated the Chishi Hou King and executed him. On the day bingwu, King Su of Donghai died. In winter, tenth month, day bingwu, a landslide occurred in Yuexi. On the day xinwei, the young emperor died. That winter, a great epidemic struck the capital.

The commentary states:
Emperor Xiao’an, though honored with respect and worship, ceded power to the Deng family, yet curtailed extravagant dress and earnestly considered governance. However, his influence failed to extend far beyond the palace, and he lost the roots of authority, resulting in the decline of Guoling mausoleum. He made plans to assign offices monetarily and to relocate refugees and bandits, shifting blame to celestial disasters as justification. While he sought wise women, he was also considered a ‘family’s concern.’

The eulogy states:
“Xiao’an’s virtue did not rise; it wasted our kingly measures. He diminished the heir’s store; incited harmful weeds to sprout. Feng Shi gained favor; Yang Gong encountered wrath. That day thus faded, the heavenly path was lost.”

Source: Chinesenotes.com
Translation: SAI (2025)