[No System + Revolution + Industrialization + Infrastructure + Republic]
In the first year of the Chongzhen reign, the year Wuchen, on the first day of the final winter month. I, of meager virtue, have inherited the weighty trust of my ancestors and ascended the throne to rule the realm. I respectfully reflect on the succession of our former emperors, whose benevolent influence spread far and whose grace reached across the four seas, benefiting all the people. Now that Heaven's mandate has found its rightful place and the imperial regalia are in my hands, how could I fail to be diligent and conscientious, revere Heaven and cherish the people, carry on the aspirations of my forebears, and bring their glorious plans and achievements to fruition?
I therefore proclaim this new mandate to all under Heaven:
First, from this day forward, I shall devote myself to good governance and the people's welfare, laboring from dawn to dusk without slackening, so as to answer Heaven's will above and comfort the people's hearts below.
Second, all officials within and beyond the court shall diligently fulfill their duties and work together for the good of the state. None may neglect their responsibilities. We must strive for good governance, harmony among the people, a prosperous nation, and a peaceful populace.
Third, I shall clarify the laws and strengthen the order of the realm, punish the corrupt and treacherous, and reward the loyal and virtuous, so that good and evil receive their due and justice shines brightly.
Fourth, I shall show mercy to the people, lighten corvée labor and taxes, reduce punishments and exercise caution in sentencing, promote what benefits the people and eliminate what harms them, so that all may live out their lives and share in an age of peace.
Fifth, I shall promote martial and literary training, improve military affairs, train troops and select generals, and secure our borders against unforeseen dangers, safeguarding our homeland and state.
Sixth, I shall uphold Confucian learning, honor teachers and the Way, promote the teachings of the sages, and enlighten the hearts of the people, so that the land of propriety and righteousness may flourish.
Seventh, I shall gather opinions from all quarters, accept remonstrance as freely as flowing water, open channels for counsel, welcome worthy talent, and draw on the wisdom of the many to assist me.
Eighth, I shall pacify the four quarters, win over those near and far with benevolence, maintain friendly relations with our neighbors, and foster harmony among all nations, so that we may all attain an age of great peace.
I have only just assumed this great responsibility and fear that I may not be equal to it. I wish to join the officials and people of the realm in working with one heart and one mind to overcome these difficult times, fulfill the weighty trust placed in me by our ancestors, and preserve the Great Ming's realm and ancestral altars for all time. Let this edict be proclaimed, so that all may hear and know.
By imperial command.
