Duke Ling of Jin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Yigao (夷皋) |
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| Duke Ling of Jin | |||||
| Ruler of Jin | |||||
| Reign | 620–607 BC | ||||
| Predecessor | Duke Xiang of Jin | ||||
| Successor | Duke Cheng of Jin | ||||
| Regent | Zhao Dun | ||||
| Died | 19 August 607 BC | ||||
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| Father | Duke Xiang of Jin | ||||
| Mother | Mu Ying | ||||
Duke Ling of Jin (simplified Chinese: 晋灵公; traditional Chinese: 晉靈公; pinyin: Jìn Líng Gōng) was an important ruler in ancient China. He ruled the State of Jin from 620 BC to 607 BC. Jin was a very powerful state during a time called the Spring and Autumn period. His personal name was Yigao. "Duke Ling" was a special title given to him after he died.
When Duke Ling's father, Duke Xiang of Jin, passed away in 621 BC, Yigao was still a young boy. He became the ruler with the help of a wise advisor named Zhao Dun. Zhao Dun acted as his regent, which means he helped govern the state while Duke Ling was too young.
Contents
Becoming a Harsh Ruler
By 607 BC, Duke Ling had been in charge for 14 years. He was now an adult. However, he started to make very unfair decisions. He was known for being very strict and even punished his chef severely for not cooking a meal perfectly.
Zhao Dun's Efforts
His main advisor, Zhao Dun, was a good and honest man. Zhao Dun tried to help Duke Ling make better choices. He wanted Duke Ling to be a fair and just ruler.
A Dangerous Situation
Duke Ling did not like Zhao Dun's advice. He felt annoyed by Zhao Dun's influence. Duke Ling even tried to get rid of Zhao Dun. Luckily, Zhao Dun managed to escape this danger.
The End of Duke Ling's Rule
On August 19, 607 BC, Zhao Dun's half-brother, Zhao Chuan, led a rebellion. During this uprising, Duke Ling was killed.
After Duke Ling's death, Zhao Dun and Zhao Chuan helped choose the next ruler. They placed Duke Ling's uncle, Heitun, on the throne. Heitun was the youngest son of Duke Wen of Jin. He became known as Duke Cheng of Jin.
