The Ming Dynasty (Dynastic Turmoil)

The Ming dynasty lasted 277 years. It began in 1368, when Zhu Yuanzhang declared himself emperor at Yingtian (Nanjing) and named his dynasty the Great Ming. It ended in 1644, when the Chongzhen Emperor hanged himself on Coal Hill. In the early Ming, Zhu Yuanzhang and his son Zhu Di governed diligently, laying the foundations for a century of prosperity. This was followed by what is known as the “Rule of Ren and Xuan.” After the middle period, political corruption set in and the dynasty steadily declined. In its final years, beset by troubles at home and abroad, the Ming faced a massive peasant uprising and came to a tragic end. The Ming saw growth in the commodity economy and the beginnings of capitalism. Feudal culture flourished, producing such notable figures as Wang Shouren and Li Zhi. The Yongle Encyclopedia and the Four Great Classical Novels became famous works.