Li+Shimin

Chris Shoemaker 498 Words **Li Shimin: The Great Emperor** The definition of greatness has varied drastically over the past few thousand years, its connotation dependent on the economical/political achievements of the world’s recognized leaders at a particular time. For example, during the invasion of the Mongols, Genghis Khan was described as a “great” leader because of his militaristic conquests and brutal (yet efficient) fighting techniques. On the other hand, Abraham Lincoln was defined as “great” due to his honesty and integrity in the face of constant opposition. Li Shimin differs from these leaders in the sense that he ran an era of prosperity in his empire through a combination of these tactics, as opposed to the overuse of just one. Using a balance of aggression, ambition, persuasion, and intelligence, Li Shimin carved out a golden age in Chinese history - the creation of the Tang dynasty.

Li Shimin, in his aggressive yet ambitious nature, embarked on several major military campaigns that made China one of the largest world powers of its time. In the years before his reign, Li Shimin sparked a massive rebellion against the Sui dynasty, ultimately overthrowing it with assistance from his father and brothers.[1] This radical movement was the first representation of the young leader’s military ability, as well as his persuasive talents (influencing his father to join the revolution). He went on to conquer the Eastern Tujue empire in 629, crush Tuyuhun forces in 635, and capture Qiuzi in 648, with several other victories in between.[2] These conquests significantly expanded China’s borders, stretching its boundaries farther than ever before, and propelling the Tang dynasty into an economically prosperous age.

Li Shimin’s persuasive ability and raw intelligence helped him refine the Chinese empire into an efficient and cooperative state. In the first years of his ruling, Li Shimin instituted an examination system that appointed government officials on merit and intellect, as opposed to social status - through the adoption of this method, people from any class or background had a more equal chance to gain government status.[3] Furthermore, Li Shimin convinced the people to support such developments as strict control of federal expenses, the elimination of government corruption, an enhancement of agricultural productivity, and a more fair system of taxation over the public. These policies worked together to satisfy the general public while at the same time keeping the government in check. Li Shimin also focused heavily on eliminating the harsh laws of the Sui dynasty (i.e. required time in the corvee, the strict penal code), making him a beloved emperor in the eyes of the people.[4]

Li Shimin took an empire in turmoil, fresh out of a rebellion, and sculpted it into a machine of economical efficiency and political stability. By balancing his priorities with the military, government, and people, he thrust China into a flourishing golden age that lasted many years. Though he made a handful of militaristic mistakes, Li Shimin did what was necessary to ensure political and religious freedom for his people - an act that gained him the respect of the world for years to come.

1China Culture. "Tang Taizong." [|__http://www.chinaculture.org/gb/en_aboutchina/2003-09/24/content_22874.htm__]. - 11 2Warrior Tours. "Tang Dynasty." http://www.warriortours.com/intro/history/tang/. - 13 3Encyclopedia of World Biography. "T'ang T'ai-tsung." [|__http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Emperor_of_China_Tang_Taizong.aspx__].11 4Encyclopedia of World Biography. "T'ang T'ai-tsung." [|__http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/Emperor_of_China_Tang_Taizong.aspx__].11