Volume 6: Annals of Emperor Xiaoshun, Emperor Xiaochong, and Emperor Xiaozh

Emperor Shun (Xiaoshun)

The filial and prudent Emperor was the son of Emperor An of Han, his personal name was Bao. His mother was Lady Li, who was killed by Empress Yan. In the first year of Yongning (ca. 120 AD), he was made Crown Prince. In the third year of Yanguang era, Emperor An’s wet nurse Wang Sheng, Grand Guardian Jiang Jing, and Regular Attendant Fan Feng slandered the Crown Prince’s wet nurse Wang Nan and Kitchen Supervisor Bing Ji, resulting in their deaths, which caused the Crown Prince much sorrow and sighing. Fearing repercussions, Wang Sheng and the others conspired with Fan Feng and Jiang Jing to frame the Crown Prince. As a result, the Crown Prince was deposed and demoted to King of Jiyin.

The following year (125 AD), in the third month, Emperor An died. The Marquis of Beixiang was enthroned, while the King of Jiyin was not permitted to ascend the palace nor attend the coffin. He mourned bitterly and refused to eat; all the officials inside and outside the court lamented his fate. When the young Marquis of Beixiang passed away, the Empress Dowager was secretly informed by General of Chariots and Cavalry Yan Xian and Jiang Jing, together with Regular Attendants Liu An and Chen Da. Instead of announcing mourning rites, they summoned the princes of various kingdoms, closed the palace gates, and stationed troops for defense.

In the eleventh month, on day dingsi, earthquakes struck the capital and sixteen commanderies. That night, nineteen palace eunuchs led by Sun Cheng assassinated Jiang Jing, Liu An, Chen Da, and others. They brought the King of Jiyin to the western bell at the Deyang Hall, where he mounted the throne as Emperor, at age eleven. High officials down to secretaries followed the imperial carriage to the Southern Palace, where they ascended the Cloud Terrace and summoned all court officials.

Grand Secretary Liu Guang and others memorialized:

“The Filial Emperor An’s sacred virtue was bright and abundant, but he passed away prematurely. Your Majesty is the rightful heir and should serve the ancestral temples. Yet traitorous ministers conspired to exile Your Majesty to a remote kingdom, causing despair among all under heaven. Heaven’s mandate is eternal, but the rule of the Marquis of Beixiang is shortlived. The Han virtues shine brightly and its blessings are great. Close ministers have offered counsel, supporting Your Majesty on both sides. This aligns with divine will, as we all agree. Your Majesty’s accession honors tradition, serving the ancestors and perpetuating the glory of your forebears, fulfilling Heaven’s will above and meeting the people’s hopes below. However, as Your Majesty came to the throne urgently, many rites and regulations are incomplete. We ask to carefully set forth the court rituals and report them in full.”

The Emperor approved: “So let it be.” Hence, the nobles and officials were summoned, and the tiger and feathered forest guards were stationed at all doors of the Southern and Northern Palaces.

Hearing of the Emperor’s accession, Yan Xian and his brothers led soldiers into the Northern Palace; Secretary Guo Zhen met them in battle and killed Xian’s brother, Guard Commander Jing. On day wuwu, envoys were sent into the Secretariat to seize the imperial seal and ribbon, and the Emperor proceeded to Jia De Hall. He ordered the censors to arrest Yan Xian and his brothers City Gate Colonel Yao and Guard Commander Yan; all were imprisoned and executed.

On day jiwei, the palace gates were opened and the stationed troops dismissed. On day renshu, an edict was issued by the Inspector of the Imperial Secretariat stating: “Only Yan Xian and Jiang Jing’s close relatives are to be punished with death. The rest shall be treated with leniency and mercy.”

On day renshen, the emperor visited the Mausoleum of Gaozu. On day guiyou, he paid respects at the temple of Emperor Guangwu. On day yihai, an edict dismissed the Inspector of Yizhou from his post along the Ziwu Road and to open the Baoxie Road. On day jimao, the Young Emperor was buried with princely rites. Minister of Works Liu Shou was dismissed. Money and grain were awarded to officials and subordinates according to rank.

In the twelfth month, on day jiashen, governors of commanderies and kingdoms who had served less than one year were allowed to recommend filial and incorrupt candidates for office. Tao Dun of Henan, the Junior Treasurer, was appointed Minister of Works. On day guimao, the Secretariat petitioned to rescind the edict from the third year of Yanguang, day dingsi in the ninth month, which had demoted the Crown Prince to Prince of Jiyin. The request was approved.

A great epidemic struck the capital.

On day xinhai, an edict was issued to the nobles, Minister of Works, commandery governors, and kingdom chancellors, instructing each to recommend one virtuous, capable, and outspoken man who could offer honest advice. The Nine Ministers of the Secretariat and all those who followed the imperial carriage to the Southern Palace were promoted in rank and granted cloth according to their status.

In the spring of the first year of Yongjian (126 AD), on day jiayin in the first month, an edict declared:
“The late emperor was a sage of great virtue, but his reign was short, and he departed early, leaving a great legacy. Wicked and evil voices have sown discord among the people, spreading resentment and harsh accusations, undermining harmony and bringing plagues and disasters. I uphold the great mission but have yet to bring peace. The fundamental principle is to examine and expand virtue and kindness, wash away former evils, and rejuvenate the people. Therefore, a general amnesty is declared throughout the realm. All men are granted two ranks, but fathers, filial sons, the Elders of the Three Bonds, and diligent farmers receive three. Displaced persons seeking to settle are granted one rank. Widows, orphans, the disabled, and the poor unable to support themselves shall receive five hu of grain each. Virtuous widows are granted three bolts of silk. Those condemned to exile shall not be moved; fugitives shall not be pursued. Members of the imperial family stripped of their status due to crimes shall be restored. Those associated with Yan Xian and Jiang Jing will not be investigated. All must work diligently in their duties to bring peace to the people.”

On day xinwei, Empress Dowager Yan passed away. On day xinsi, Grand Tutor Feng Shi, Grand Commandant Liu Xi, and Minister of Works Li He were dismissed. On day jiashen of the second month, Empress Ansi was buried. On day bingxu, Minister of Ceremonies Huan Yan was appointed Grand Tutor; Grand Herald Zhu Chong became Grand Commandant and assisted with Secretariat affairs; and Zhu Chang, Junior Treasurer of the Chang Le household, was appointed Minister of Works. Officials who accompanied the imperial carriage for the night guard and those promoted were given cloth according to rank.

The Qiang tribes of Longxi rebelled, but Protector of the Qiang Ma Xian defeated them in battle.

In summer, in the fifth month on day dingchou, an edict was issued to the Inspectors of Youzhou, Bingzhou, and Liangzhou, instructing each to list all officials with a grain salary of over 2.000 stones who were too old, weak, or unfit for military duties, and report their names. Orders were given to immediately strengthen and repair frontier defenses, prepare garrisons, and to select and train soldiers in martial skills after the start of autumn.

In the sixth month, on day jihai, King Xian, the son of King Cuo of Jinan, was named to be the new King of Jinan.

In autumn, in the seventh month on day gengwu, Weiwei Lai Li was appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry. In the eighth month, the Xianbei raided Daijun. Li Chao, the governor of Daijun, died in battle. On day xinhai in the ninth month, the Three Excellencies and the Secretariat officials were ordered to regularly submit memos on state affairs.

In winter, in the tenth month on day xinsi, an edict reduced all sentences with the exception of capital offenses, to exile on the frontier; fugitives could redeem their sentences according to circumstances. On day dinghai, Minister of Works Tao Dun was dismissed.

On day gengyin, troops from Liyang garrison were sent to the northern border of Zhongshan, which had been raided again by the Xianbei. The Inspector of Youzhou was informed to increase infantry units along border commanderies, and arrange garrisons at the mountain passes. Five companies of crossbowmen were to be selected by the prefecture, for training in military drills and archery. On day renyin, Chief Judge Zhang Hao was appointed Minister of Works. On day jiachen, an edict was issued to reduce this year’s revenue from land taxes; when losses from pestilence and flooding exceeded 25%, no taxes were to be collected. Deficits were adjusted accordingly.

In the twelfth month on day xinsi, cloth gifts were awarded to kings, princes, nobles, and officials according to rank.

In the spring of the second year (127 AD), on day wushen in the first month, King Hong of Le’an came to court. On day dingmao, King Zhang of Changshan passed away.

In the second month, the Xianbei raided Liaodong and Xuantu commanderies. On day jiachen, an edict was issued in the four provinces of Jing, Yu, Yan, and Ji to provide relief and loans to the poor and displaced, helping them resettle and establish their livelihoods; and providing care to the sick. Geng Ye, Protector of the Wuhuan, led the Southern Chanyu in an attack on the Xianbei and defeated them. In the third month, a drought occurred, and envoys were sent to enlist prisoners.

The kingdom of Shule sent envoys to offer tribute.

In summer, in the sixth month on day yiyou, the late Empress Dowager Li was posthumously honored as the Respectful and Compassionate Empress, and buried at the Gongbei Mausoleum. Ban Yong, the Chief Historian of the Western Regions, and Zhang Lang, Governor of Dunhuang, campaigned against the three kingdoms of Yanqi, Yuli, and Weixu and defeated them; tributes were sent by their rulers.

In autumn, on the new moon of the seventh month, a solar eclipse occurred. On day renwu, Grand Commandant Zhu Chong and Minister of the Masses Zhu Chang were dismissed. On day gengzi, Minister of Ceremonies Liu Guang was appointed Grand Commandant overseeing Secretariat affairs; Grand Master of the Household Xu Jing was appointed Minister of the Masses. On day xinchou, Prince Cheng of Xiapi passed away.

In the first month of the spring of the third year (128 AD), on day bingzi, an earthquake struck the capital, and the ground in Hanyang sank and cracked. On day jiawu, an edict awarded two thousand coins to those aged seven and above who suffered injuries; if entire families were affected, their commanderies and counties were ordered to provide relief. On day yiwei, an edict exempted the Hanyang region from paying this year’s land and poll taxes.

In summer, on day guimao in the fourth month, the Grand Master of the Household was sent to survey Hanyang, Henan, Weijun, Chenliu, and Dongjun, providing loans to the poor. In the sixth month, a drought occurred. Envoys were sent to record prisoners and review minor offenses. On day jiayin, Prince Xian of Jinan passed away.

In autumn, on day dingyou in the seventh month, a disaster struck the Maoling imperial tomb, and the emperor wore mourning white, avoiding the main hall. On day xinhai, Minister of Ceremonies Wang Gong was sent to perform the official rituals at Maoling Mausoleum. In the ninth month, the Xianbei raided Yuyang. In winter, on day jihai in the twelfth month, Grand Tutor Huan Yan was dismissed.

In the same year, General of Chariots and Cavalry Lai Li was dismissed.

In the first month of spring of the fourth year (129 AD), on day bingyin, an edict declared:

“I place my trust in the highest ranking kings and dukes, yet I see that days grow short and governance is lacking focus; the forces of yin and yang are out of balance, thieves and bandits run rampant, lawsuits multiply, and there is no end to the worries and sighs, as if they are bowing under a severe illness. The Book of Songs says: ‘May noble gentlemen find peace, so that chaos quickly ends.’ As the Three Courts convene on the new moon at the start of spring, I urge on all under Heaven to cleanse their hearts and renew themselves. Therefore, a general amnesty is declared throughout the realm. From day jia yin when this amnesty was issued, ranks and registers previously lost shall be restored, and those redeemed since the first month of the third year are pardoned. Those accused of involvement in imprisonments and restricting marriages like Yan Xian and Jiang Jing, are pardoned. Strive to promote benevolence and harmony, honor the cycle of the seasons, observe the rites and abandon harshness to fulfill my intentions.”

On day bingsi, the emperor donned his coming-of-age robe and cap. Gifts of gold and silk were bestowed upon kings, princes, nobles, and officials according to their ranks. Displaced persons seeking settlement, as well as men granted noble titles, were each given one rank. Fathers, filial sons, the Elders of the Three Bonds, and diligent farmers received two ranks. Widowers, widows, orphans, the disabled, and those unable to support themselves were granted one bolt of silk.

In the second month, on day wuwu, an edict was issued ordering people to quarry stone in the mountains to release trapped gases. The authorities were instructed to inspect and prohibit any activities that should be forbidden, following the rules established in the Jianwu and Yongping eras.

In summer, in the fifth month on day renchen, an edict was issued stating:

“Crises and calamities have occurred across the empire, prompting the court to reform governance. The Imperial Household reduced its banquets, and rare treasures are no longer used for luxuries. But Wen Lei, Governor of Guiyang, not only devoted his utmost loyalty in promoting the court’s interests, he also sought favor by sending large pearls from afar. These are now returned, along with his titles.”

There was rain and floods in the five provinces. On day gengzi in the eighth month in autumn, envoys were dispatched to verify deaths and collect tributes and gifts. On day disi, Grand Commandant Liu Guang and Minister of Works Zhang Hao were dismissed.

In the ninth month, An-Ding, Beidi, and Shang Commandery were restored to their original territories. On day guiyou, Grand Herald Pang Can was appointed Grand Commandant and assumed charge of the Secretariat. Minister of Ceremonies Wang Gong was appointed Minister of Works. On day gengchen in the eleventh month of winter, Minister over the Masses Xu Jing was dismissed. The Xianbei invaded Shuofang.

On day yimao, in the twelfth month, Zongzheng Liu Qi was appointed Minister over the Masses. In this year, Kuaiji was divided to form Wu Commandery. The state of Ju Mi sent envoys to present tribute.

In the spring of the fifth year (130 AD), in the first month, the King of Shule sent attendants, and the kings of Dayuan and Shache also sent envoys to present tribute.

In summer, during the fourth month, the capital was struck by drought. On day xinsi, an edict was issued that poor people should not be held accountable for taxes or labor this year in the commanderies and counties affected by the disaster. In the capital and throughout the region there were twelve locust infestations.

In winter, on day bingchen in the tenth month, an edict was issued in commanderies and counties reducing the sentences of all criminals by one degree, assigning them to serve frontier garrisons in Beidi, Shangjun, or Anding. On day yihai, Marquis Dingyuan Ban Shi was convicted of killing his wife, Princess Yincheng, and was executed by waist chopping. His family members were disgraced in the marketplace.

In the second month of spring of the sixth year (131 AD), on day gengwu, King Kai of Hejian passed away.

In the third month, on day xinhai, farmers were resettled in Yiwu County and a military supervisor was appointed. In autumn, on day xinsi in the ninth month, the Imperial Academy was restored. Geng Ye, Commander of the Wuhuan, led troops to attack the Xianbei and defeated them. On day dingyou, the king of Khotan sent attendants with tribute.

In the eleventh month, in winter on day xinhai, an imperial edict declared: “Floods and disasters have occurred repeatedly in recent years, especially in Ji Province. Though aid and relief have been provided to the poorest, many continue to abandon their farms and flee. This suggests that local authorities have been negligent in spreading imperial benevolence. As the I Ching praises ’to reduce from the top to benefit the bottom,’ and the Book of Documents says ’to care for the people is to grant kindness.’ Therefore, no taxes or rents for farmland and forage shall be collected in Ji Province this year”

In the twelfth month, the states of Yediao and Shan beyond the southern borders of Rinan sent envoys to offer tribute. On day renshen, a visiting star appeared in the constellation of Altair. The king of Khotan sent attendants to the palace to present tribute.

In the first year of the Yangjia era (132 AD), in spring, on day yisi in the first month, Empress Liang was established. Titles were granted as follows: common people were raised by two ranks; Elders of the Three Bonds, filial and dutiful individuals, and those who worked the fields received three ranks. Titles above the rank of duke could be transferred to sons, family members, or descendants. Commoners without registered households and fugitives who wished to settle were raised by one rank. Widowers, widows, orphans, the disabled, and the poor who could not sustain themselves were granted five hu of grain per person.

In the second month, sea pirates led by Zeng Jing raided Kuaiji, killing the county magistrates of Juzhang, Yin, and Mao, and attacking the Eastern Commandant of Kuaiji. An imperial edict ordered the deployment of troops to garrison the coastal counties. On day dingsi, the Empress paid respects at the temples of Gao and Guangwu. An edict was issued regarding the poor in Ganling: aid must be provided in proportion to the number of mouths to be fed.

A drought struck the capital. On day gengshen, an imperial order was issued for all commandery and county officials with a salary of more than 2,000 stones of grain to perform prayers at sacred mountains and rivers. Envoys and officials were sent to Mount Songgao and Mount Shouyang, and sacrifices were offered at the Yellow and Luo Rivers to pray for rain. On day wuchen, a rain ceremony was held.

Due to frequent floods and droughts in Ji Province, the people faced food shortages. An edict ordered that emergency loans be provided in accordance with regulations to stimulate agriculture and supply aid until the shortages were resolved. On day jiaxu, an imperial decree declared:

“The governance has lost its harmony; yin and yang are out of balance. In winter, there is little snow; spring lacks rain. Prayers and sacrifices have been offered to all relevant gods. To ensure we are fully attentive to the divine presence, Zhong Wangfu and other envoys were sent on separate imperial missions to Mount Tai, Donghai, Xingyang, the Yellow River, and the Luo River to pray with utmost sincerity.”

In the third month, Zhang He’s bandits led a violent insurgency in forty-nine counties across six commanderies in Yang Province, killing and injuring many senior officials. On day gengyin, the emperor attended a grand feast and archery event at the Biyong Hall, declared a general amnesty across the realm, and inaugurated the new era name, Yangjia. An edict ordered that all members of the imperial clan who had lost their registrations be fully reinstated, and decreed that the poorest people in Ji Province were exempt from this year’s grain taxes, rent, and poll taxes.

On day wuyin in the fifth month of summer, Prince Huiling of Fuling passed away.

In the seventh month of autumn, court historians began using a copper device to detect the direction from which an earthquake was coming. On day bingchen, when the new imperial academy was completed, candidates for the classical examinations who scored below the required marks were appointed junior disciples. The number of Jia and Yi top-positions was increased by ten each. Ninety senior scholars from various commanderies and kingdoms were appointed as Secretaries and Attendants. In the ninth month, an imperial decree ordered high officials and commanders of the commanderies and kingdoms to reduce the death sentences of prisoners by one degree, and allowed fugitives to be rehabilitated depending on the circumstances.

The Xianbei raided Liaodong.

In the eleventh month, inwinter on day jiashen, wolves in Wangdu and Puyin killed ninety-seven women; an edict compensated victims’ families with three thousand coins each. On day xinmao, it was decreed for the first time that candidates over the age of forty, known for their filial piety and moral integrity, would be recommended for office in the commanderies and kingdoms. Among these candidates, scholars versed in classical texts, and clerks proficient in memorial writing and reporting were eligible. However, those with exceptional talent and conduct, such as Yan Yuan and Zi Qi, were not restricted by age.

On day dingwei in the twelth month, the Prince of Dongping passed away. On day gengxu, the six military farming colonies in Xuantu Commandery were reestablished.

In the leap month, on day dinghai, an imperial edict called for the selection of candidates over forty years old, who had passed the state examinations and were known for their filial piety and moral integrity, to be appointed as officials. One candidate was to be nominated each year. On day wuzai, a bright star appeared in the Garden of the Sky. On day xinmao, an edict declared:

“In recent times, government officials have been inefficient; consequently, disasters have frequently occurred, and crime is on the rise. The root cause of this decline lies in improperly conducted official selections, resulting in unqualified men holding office. Thus, Heaven’s Mandate has not been fulfilled, and the people harbor much resentment. The Book of Documents praises virtuous ministers, while the Classic of Poetry highlights the ‘Three Flaws’ to be avoided. The selection of Inspectors and senior officials ranking above the 2.000 stones scale is now entrusted to the Three Excellencies, the highest Ministers. They are tasked to carefully order and prioritize candidates, rigorously assess merit and rank, consider seasonal and yearly cycles, and aptly assign officials to civil or military roles—dutifully fulfilling their responsibilities.”

On day gengzi, calamity struck the Great Hall of the Gongling Imperial Mausoleum.

In that year, renovations and decorations were carried out on the palace buildings, and construction began on the Western Gardens.

In the second year (133 AD), on day jia-shen in the second month, an edict was issued granting famine relief to farmers in the Wu and Kuaiji Commanderies, who could borrow grain for planting.

In the third month, Wang Chou, commander of the Xiongnu army, led the Left Bone Duke and others to attack the Xianbei nation, defeating them. On day xinyou, forty-eight Confucian scholars aged sixty and above were appointed as court clerks or attendants in the imperial capital, and as clerks to various principalities. In the forth month, in summer, the office of the commander of southern Longxi was reestablished. On day jihai, an earthquake struck the capital.

In the fifth month, on day gengzi, an imperial edict declared: “Lacking virtue, I was entrusted with the great task of governing the empire. I have failed to harmonize Heaven and Earth, and balance the forces of Yin and Yang. As a result, disasters and calamities have repeatedly occurred, and signs of misfortune persist. An unusual earth tremor originated from the capital, filling us with fear and sorrow, leaving us wondering how to respond. How will the lords, ministers, and scholars address our shortcomings and respond to these calamities? Those warning signs must be caused by something. Let all speak frankly about their faults, without holding back.”

On day wuxu, Minister of Works Wang Gong was dismissed.

On day xinwei in the sixth month, Minister of Ceremonies Kong Fu from the great state of Lu was appointed Minister of Works. The kingdom of Shule presented lions and sacred cattle as tribute. On day dingchou, the ground collapsed and a sinkhole appeared in Luoyang. In the same month, a drought occurred. In the seventh month, in autumn on day jiwei, Grand Commandant Pang Can was dismissed. In the eightth month, on day jisi, Grand Herald Shi Yan of the Pei state was appointed Grand Commandant.

The Xianbei invaded Dai Commandery. In winter, in the tenth month on day gengwu, a ritual was performed in the Biyong Imperial Hall. The cosmic Huangzhong pitch was restored by sounding the sacred bell, and musical instruments were harmonized, in tune with the lunar months.

In spring of the third year (134 AD), on day jichou in the second month, an edict was issued, ordering that due to the prolonged drought, all cases in the capital’s prisons, regardless of their severity, be put on hold until it rains again. On day gengxu in the third month, militias in the Yizhou region abducted the county magistrate and assasinated nobles.

In summer, on day bingyin in the fourth month, the rear divison cavalry commander of the Cheshi nation led King Jiatenu and others in a surprise attack on the Xiongnu, resulting in a decisive victory and the capture of their renegade leader Jimo.

In the fifth month, on day wuxu, an imperial edict was issued, stating: “In the past, Taizong’s rule of frugality and compassion brought peace and prosperity to our ancestors. It was recognized by both the Heavens and the people, and praised for its virtue and integrity. But I have not been clear about my duties, and the right ways to govern. Heaven and Earth have condemned us and major disasters continue to occur. The persisting drought of spring and summer has led to lawlessness and banditry, and the people are suffering. I deeply regret this. A rejuvenation of the whole empire is commended. I proclaim a grand amnesty throughout the land and pardon all offenses, except for crimes against the state, and those punishable by death. One hu of rice, five dou of wine and twenty jin of meat shall be granted to citizens aged eighty and above. Those over ninety shall receive two bolts of cloth and three jin of cotton on top of that.”

*) One jin ≈ 220 grams, one dou ≈ 2 liters, one hu = 10 dou

In the seventh month, in autumn on day gengxu, the Zhong Qiang invaded Longxi and Hanyang. Ma Xu, as Protector of the Qiang, engaged them in battle and defeated them three months later.

In the eleventh month, on day renyin, Minister of the Masses Liu Qi and Minister of Works Kong Fu were dismissed. On day yisi, Minister of Agriculture Huang Shang from Nan Commanderie was appointed Minister of the Masses; Wang Zhuo, Marquis of Hedong, was appointed Minister of Works. On day bingwu, the garrison at Tunguan was raided by the Qiang tribes, settled beyond the Wudu Pass and Outer Qiang. Livestock and people were driven away.

In spring of the fourth year (135 AD), on day bingzi in the second month, a decree without precedence was issued, allowing eunuchs to pass on their titles to adopted sons.

Last winter’s drought continued until this month. During this time, palace attendant Ma Xian defeated the Middle Qiang people.

In the fourth month, on day jiazi, Grand Commandant Shi Yan was dismissed. On day wuyin, Liang Shang, Commander of the Palace Guard, was appointed Grand General. On the same day, Pang Can, the former Grand Commandant, was reinstated. On day yiwei, in the sixth month, King Kuang of Liang passed away. In autumn, on day jihai in the seventh month, King Deng of Jibei died as well. On the new moon, the first day of the leap month, a solar eclipse occurred.

In winter, during the tenth month, the Wuhuan invaded Yunzhong. The eleventh month, General Geng Ye of Duluo Liao was besieged at the city of Lanchi. Troops from various commanderies were sent to relieve him, forcing the Wuhuan to retreat. On day jia yin of the twelfth month, an earthquake shook the capital.

In the first year of Yonghe (136 AD), in the first month of spring, the King of Buyeo visited the imperial court.

In autumn, in the seventh month, a locust plague struck Yanshi. In winter, on day dinghai in the tenth month, a fire broke out in the Chengfu Hall, and the emperor took refuge in the Imperial Cloud Terrace. In the eleventh month, on day bingzi, Grand Commandant Pang Can was dismissed. In the twelfth month, the southern tribes of Xianglin rebelled. On day yisi, the former Minister of Works, Wang Gong, was appointed Grand Commandant.

In the second year (137 AD), in the first month of spring, the Wuling tribes rebelled, besieging the county of Chong and invading Yidao. In the second month, Li Jin, governor of Wuling, fought the rebellious tribes and defeated them. The military commander of the autonomous state within Guanghan attacked and defeated the White Horse Qiang.

In the third month, on day xinhai, King Yi of Beihai passed away. On day yimao, Minister of Works Wang Zhuo died.
On day dingchou, Minister of Imperial Entertainments Guo Qian, along with Feng Yi, was appointed Minister of Works. In summer, on day bing-shen in the fourth month, an earthquake struck the capital. In the fifth month, rebellious tribes in Rinan attacked the commandery seat.

In autumn, in the seventh month, the troops of Jiuzhen and Jiaozhi commanderies rebelled. In the eighth month, on day gengzi, planet Mars crossed the Southern Dipper. Bandits in Jiangxia killed the magistrate of Zhu.

In winter, in the tenth month on day jiashen, the emperor made a journey to Chang’an. Five hu of grain was given to each widower, widow, orphan and poor or solitary person along the route. On day gengzi, the emperor arrived at Weiyang Palace. He gathered the governors and commandants of the Three Adjuncts, along with their staff, and honored them with gifts and a musical celebration. In the eleventh month, on day bingwu, sacrifices were made at the Gao Ancestral Temple. On day dingwei, the emperor proceeded to offer rites at the Eleven Imperial Mausoleums. On day dingmao, an earthquake struck the capital.

In the twelfth month, on day yihai, the emperor returned from Chang’an.

In the spring of the third year (138 AD), in the second month on day yihai, earthquakes struck the capital, as well as Jincheng and Longxi. In these two commanderies, mountain slopes and river banks collapsed and the ground sank. On day wuzi, planet Venus crossed Mars.

In summer, the fourth month, rebel leader Cai Boliu from Jiujiang raided the border of the commandery and reached Guangling, where he killed the magistrate of Jiangdu. On day wuxu, the Minister of Imperial Entertainments was dispatched to inspect Jincheng and Longxi. Two thousand coins were allocated to provide aid to victims over the age of seven who were crushed to death. Where entire families were killed, arrangements were made to cover expenses. This year’s land taxes were waived, and for those suffering the most, poll taxes were also exempted.

In the leap month, Cai Boliu and his associates surrendered to Ying Zhi, the Inspector of Xuzhou. On day jiyou, the capital city was struck by an earthquake. In the fifth month, the Deputy Magistrate of Wu Commandery led an insurgency and attacked the commandery seat. However, Governor Wang Heng defeated Yang Zhen, and the rebel official was executed. On day xinchou in the sixth month, King Wang Zun of the Langya Commandery passed away. Zhu Liang, Governor of Jiu Zhen, and Zhang Qiao, Inspector of Jiaozhi, persuaded the tribes of Rinan to lay down their weapons and surrender, restoring peace to the lands beyond the Ling Mountains.

In autumn, seventh month, on day bingshu, King Duo of Jibei Commandery passed away. In the eighth month, on day jisi, Minister of the Masses Huang Shang was relieved of his duties.

In the ninth month, on day jiyou, Grand Herald Liu Shou of Changsha was appointed Minister of the Masses. On day bingshu, the Grand General and the Ministers of the Three Excellencies each recommended two officials from the ranks of former Inspectors, the ranks of 2,000 stones of grain, county magistrates, town chiefs and clerks of the Four Departments who were firm, brave, and strategic enough to act as commanders. Additionally, one person each was recommended from the ranks of Ministers, Colonels and the Specially Honored.

In winter, in the tenth month, the Shaodang Qiang tribes invaded Jincheng. They were defeated by Ma Xian, Protector of the Qiang. Subsequently, the Qiang tribes joined together in a rebellion. The first day of the twelfth month, new moon, was marked by a solar eclipse.

In the spring of the fourth year (139 AD), in the first month on day gengchen, Regular Attendants Zhang Kui, Qu Zheng, Yang Ding and several others were found guilty of crimes and executed. Their punishment extended to Zhang Feng, Governor of Hongnong, and Yang Gao, Chancellor of Anping, who were imprisoned and died in custody. In the third month, on day yihai, an earthquake struck the capital.

In summer, on day guimao in the fourth month, the Shaodang Qiang were defeated in a campaign led by Colonel Ma Xian, Protector of the Qiang. On day wuwu, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire. Ranks of nobility, along with grain and silk, were bestowed upon the people according to their respective ranks. On day wuchen in the fifth month, An, son of the late King Hui Shou of Jibei Commandery, was proclaimed King of Jibei.

In autumn, in the eighth month, the people of Taiyuan Commandery were forced to flee their homes due to a drought. On day guichou, a Grand Secretary was dispatched from the Imperial Palace to inspect the region, provide grain loans, and exempt the people them from this year’s corvée labor.

In winter, on day wuwu in the tenth month, the emperor conducted an official hunt at the Shanglin Park, traveling as far as Hangu Pass before returning. In the eleventh month, on day bingyin, he visited the Guangcheng Park.

In the spring of the fifth year (140 AD), on day wushen in the second month, the capital city was struck by an earthquake. In summer, on day gengzi in the fourth month, King Hong of the Zhongshan Principality passed away. In the south, Wusi and Cheniu, leaders of the Left Division of the Southern Xiongnu tribe, rebelled and besieged Meiji.

In the fifth month, General Ma Xu of the Liao River Forces campaigned against Wusi and Cheniu, defeating them. He then dispatched Chen Gui, the Xiongnu Colonel on duty, to force the Southern Chanyu to commit suicide. On day jiya, a solar eclipse occurred. In the Three Peripheries, insurgents from the Frozen Qiang tribe killed several magistrates. On day dingchou, edicts were issued allowing death sentences to be commuted through varying amounts of financial compensation. Those with lesser punishments as well as fugitives were also allowed to redeem themselves.

In the ninth month, orders were issued to the Fufeng and Hanyang Commanderies to build 300 strongholds along the Long Road and station garrison troops. On day xinwei, Grand Commandant Wang Gong was retired.

The Frozen Qiang raided Wudu, setting fire to Longguan Pass. On day renwu, Huan Yan joined the Nine Ministeries as the new Grand Minister of Ceremonies. On day dinghai, the population of Xihe Commandery was relocated to Lishi, that of Shang Commandery to Xiayang, and Shuofang Commandery to Wuyuan in the north.

The Eastern Wuhuan conspired with the Western Qiang and Hu tribes to invade Shang Commandery, led by a group of leaders under the command of Julong Wusi. Che Niu was then established as Chanyu. In winter, on day xinsi in the eleventh month, the Xiongnu Colonel-General Zhang Dan was dispatched to defeat them, leading to Che Niu’s surrender.

In spring of the sixth year (141 AD), in the first month on day bingzi, General Ma Xian of the Western Sector engaged the Frozen Qiang at Shegu Mountain. But he was defeated and his army destroyed. Guo Huang, the Administrator of Anding, was arrested and died in prison. An imperial edict waived tax rents for kings and marquises for one year. In the leap month, the Gong and Tang Qiang invaded Longxi and advanced as far as the Three Peripheries.

In the second month, on day dingsi, a comet appeared in the constellation of the Four Pillars of Heaven.

In the third month, the Qiang peoples of Gong and Tang were defeated in campaigns led by Wuwei Governor Zhao Chong. On day gengzi, Minister of Works Guo Qian was dismissed. On day yisi, King Zheng of Hejian Principality passed away. On day bingwu, Grand Minister of the Household Zhao Jie became one of the Three Excellencies as Minister of Works. In summer, on day gengzi in the fifth month, Prince Wuji of Qi Principality passed away. The Xiongnu Colonel-General Zhang Dan was sent to the Tian Mountains and decisively defeated the Wuhuan and Qianghu tribes. The Gong and Tang Qiang raided Beidi.

In autumn, in the seventh month on day jiawu, an imperial edict was issued stating that wealthy households pay a thousand coins each. In August, on day bingchen, Grand General Liang Shang passed away. On day renshu, Governor of Henan Liang Ji was appointed Grand General. In September, various Qiang tribes invaded Wuwei. A solar eclipse marked the last day of the month. In winter, in the tenth month on day guichou, residents from Anding were relocated to Fufeng, and those from Beidi were relocated to Fengxiang.

The eleventh month, on day gengzi, Commander of the Imperial Guards Zhang Qiao was appointed acting General of Chariots and Cavalry, leading troops to garrison the Three Peripheries.

In the first year of the Han’an era (142 AD), the first month of spring on day guisi, the ancestral rites were performed at the Mingtang Hall. The era name was changed and a general amnesty was declared throughout the realm.

In the second month, on day bingchen, an imperial edict was issued requiring the Grand General, the Ministers, and the Lord each to recommend one person of integrity and virtue who was capable of discerning profound truths and uncovering hidden meanings. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Imperial Stables of Chenghua were established.

In the eighth month, Julongwusi, commander of the southern Xiongnu Left Division, joined forces with Yuán Jiàn Tái Qi and others in a major uprising. On day dingmao, the court dispatched eight officials—including Palace Attendant Du Qiao, Grand Guardian Zhou Ju, and Deputy Grand Guardians Guo Zun, Feng Xian, Luan Ba, Zhang Gang, Zhou Xu, and Liu Ban—to travel through the provinces and commanderies, disseminating the virtuous conduct as laid out in the Emperor’s edicts and evaluating nominations.