Zhengtong Emperor

Zhu Qizhen (29 November 1427 – 23 February 1464), known posthumously as Emperor Yingzong of Ming, was an emperor of the Ming dynasty who reigned twice, first as the Zhengtong Emperor from 1435 to 1449 and later as the Tianshun Emperor from 1457 until his death. He was the sixth and eighth emperor of the Ming dynasty.

**Family and Early Life**

Zhu Qizhen was born in Beijing as the eldest son of the Xuande Emperor and Lady Sun. His birth was marked by the emperor's great joy, and he was raised with a focus on military and scholarly education. In February 1428, he was designated heir to the throne, and his mother, Lady Sun, was promoted to empress in March of that year. By 1433, he was appointed as the commander of a detachment of young troops, receiving proper military training.

Following the death of the Xuande Emperor in January 1435, Zhu Qizhen, at the age of eight, ascended the throne. Although there was a proposal to appoint his uncle, Zhu Zhanshan, as emperor, Empress Dowager Zhang and the court supported Zhu Qizhen, leading to his official accession. Empress Dowager Zhang became the key regent, effectively holding power during his early years.

**Regency and Early Reign**

As a child emperor, Zhu Qizhen's regency was managed by his grandmother, Grand Empress Dowager Zhang, and several high-ranking officials known as the "Three Yangs"—Yang Shiqi, Yang Rong, and Yang Pu—along with eunuchs such as Wang Zhen. This period was characterized by political stability, with experienced statesmen governing on his behalf.

Wang Zhen, an influential eunuch, began to increase his influence over the young emperor, forming alliances with military and civil officials. His influence grew over time, impacting court politics significantly.

**First Reign and the Tumu Crisis**

In 1449, under Wang Zhen's recommendation, Zhu Qizhen personally led an expedition against the Mongols of Esen Taishi. The campaign culminated in the disastrous Battle of Tumu Fortress, where the Ming army was defeated, and the emperor was captured by Mongol forces. His capture shocked the empire, prompting his brother, Zhu Qiyu, to be installed as the Jingtai Emperor.

During his captivity, Zhu Qizhen formed relations with Esen Taishi. He was eventually released in 1450 and returned to China, but his status was diminished. The Jingtai Emperor, suspecting Zhu Qizhen's influence, confined him to the Southern Palace and limited contact with the outside world.

**Second Reign and Restoration**

In 1457, with the illness of the Jingtai Emperor, Zhu Qizhen launched a palace coup, deposing his brother and reinstating himself as emperor under the era name Tianshun. The former Jingtai Emperor died shortly after, and Zhu Qizhen, now Emperor Yingzong, ruled for another seven years.

During his second reign, Zhu Qizhen undertook campaigns in Yunnan, fought border wars with Mongols, and dealt with internal rebellions, including uprisings in southeastern regions by miners and peasants. His rule saw efforts to compile religious and philosophical texts, including the re-publication of Buddhist and Taoist classics.

**Dynastic and Political Context**

Zhu Qizhen's early reign was marked by regency and court influence, especially by Empress Dowager Zhang and Wang Zhen. His later years involved consolidating power within a turbulent political environment, purging rivals, and managing external threats.

He was involved in significant military campaigns, including suppression of rebels and wars along China’s borders, as well as conflicts with Mongol groups such as the Oirats and Eastern Mongols. The Tumu Crisis marked a turning point in Ming military history, ending the period of Ming dominance over the Mongols.

**Family and Succession**

Zhu Qizhen married Lady Qian in 1442, who became empress. He fathered several children, including Zhu Jianshen, who succeeded him as the Chenghua Emperor. His sons held various princely titles.

**Death**

Emperor Yingzong died on 23 February 1464 at the age of 36. His reign is characterized by political upheaval, military conflicts, and efforts at consolidating imperial authority after the turmoil of his captivity and second accession.