Imperial Dynasty

Haus Zhao (Song-Dynastie)

Aus den Trümmern des Chaos errichtete das Haus Zhao ein Reich der Gelehrten und Kaiser und prägte Chinas Schicksal durch Jahrhunderte voller Glanz und Unruhen. Ihr Vermächtnis lebt weiter in den Steinen von Kaifeng und Hangzhou und in den geschriebenen Worten, die die Schwerter überdauert haben.

960–1279East AsiaImperial DynastyConfucianism/Buddhism
Haus Zhao (Song-Dynastie) crest

Quick Facts

Years Active
960–1279
Founder
Zhao Kuangyin (Emperor Taizu of Song)
Region
East Asia
Religion
Confucianism/Buddhism

Notable Rulers

Documentary Chapters

Timeline

Chanyuan Treaty

The Song court signs the Chanyuan Treaty with the Liao dynasty, agreeing to pay annual tribute and establishing a fragile peace.

Renzong’s Accession

Zhao Zhen ascends the throne as Emperor Renzong, ushering in a period of cultural flourishing and stable governance.

Implementation of Wang Anshi’s Reforms

Chancellor Wang Anshi launches a series of ambitious reforms under Emperor Shenzong, aiming to strengthen the state and economy.

Jingkang Incident

Jurchen forces capture Emperor Huizong and his successor, leading to the fall of the Northern Song and the flight of the imperial family to the south.

Establishment of Southern Song Court in Hangzhou

Emperor Gaozong establishes the Song court in Hangzhou, marking the beginning of the Southern Song dynasty.

Peace Treaty with Jin Dynasty

The Song dynasty signs a peace treaty with the Jin, ceding territory in exchange for stability and tribute payments.

Abdication of Emperor Gaozong

Emperor Gaozong abdicates, ending a reign that stabilized the Southern Song and set the stage for cultural renewal.

Fall of Xiangyang

The Mongols capture Xiangyang after a prolonged siege, opening the way for the final conquest of the Southern Song.

Battle of Yamen and End of Song Dynasty

The Song navy is destroyed at the Battle of Yamen; Emperor Zhao Bing dies, marking the end of the House of Zhao’s imperial rule.

Song Legacy in Ming Scholarship

Ming dynasty scholars and officials revive and celebrate Song institutions, philosophy, and art, ensuring the enduring influence of the House of Zhao.

Chenqiao Mutiny and Founding of Song

Zhao Kuangyin is proclaimed emperor after the Chenqiao Mutiny, marking the birth of the Song dynasty and the rise of the House of Zhao.

Conquest of Northern Han

The Song dynasty completes the reunification of northern China with the conquest of Northern Han, ending the era of division.

Connected Across The Archives

Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, companies, and treaties that share history with this dynasty.

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