The Jingkang Humiliation

In the first year of Jingkang, the Jin army first laid siege to the city. Song Emperor Qinzong panicked and sued for peace, ceding territory and paying reparations. After a brief respite, the Jin army invaded again. The Northern Song's imperial troops were no match, and the capital, Dongjing, fell. Emperors Huizong and Qinzong became prisoners, while tens of thousands of royals, consorts, and officials were captured and taken north, enduring every kind of humiliation. During the “sheep-leading ritual,” once-noble emperors and ministers had their dignity trampled like livestock. The women of the imperial harem were violated at will; some became army prostitutes, while others met horrific deaths. This history serves as a warning to those who come after: never grow complacent in prosperous times, and be prepared for danger even in times of peace.