The Splendid Chinese Culture

The Ten Last Emperors Who Had Difficulty Returning

玩物喪志怠政——宋徽宗趙佶

Emperor Huizong of Song (宋徽宗) was a renowned artist but also a notorious ruler. He excelled in painting, calligraphy, and the appreciation of antiques. He was also fond of cockfighting, dog racing, and Cuju (蹴鞠, an ancient Chinese ball game), while indulging in a life of excessive drinking and pleasure.

202126ph018

Zhu Yuanzhang—An Emperor Through the Ages

朱元璋的「文字獄」

As one of the meritorious statesmen who contributed to Zhu’s success, Liu was known for his excellent stratagems. He was trusted by Zhu in the early stage, but he suffered persecution in his late years as the emperor gradually got more suspicious. Eventually, he died in depression and anger.

202107phn031_01
Read More