Emperor Jingzong of Liao facts for kids

Emperor Jingzong of Liao (born 1 September 948, died 13 October 982) was an important ruler. His personal name was Yelü Xian. He was the fifth emperor of the Liao dynasty. This dynasty was led by the Khitan people in China.

Emperor Jingzong made the government work better. He also helped to stop corruption. He was known for fighting against the Northern Song dynasty. He passed away during a hunting trip. His wife, Xiao Yanyan, later became a powerful leader. She ruled for their young son, Emperor Shengzong.

Becoming Emperor: Yelü Xian's Rise to Power

Yelü Xian became emperor in 969. He took over after Emperor Muzong died unexpectedly. Yelü Xian had strong support. Both the Khitan people and the Han Chinese leaders backed him. This helped him start his rule smoothly.

Emperor Jingzong's Impact on the Liao Dynasty

Emperor Jingzong, also known as Yelü Xian, made many positive changes. He brought Han officials into his government. One Han official became a top minister. This made the government much more efficient. It also helped the Khitan society develop faster.

Fighting Corruption and Listening to Advice

He worked hard to stop corruption. He removed officials who took bribes. He also fired those who were not good at their jobs. Emperor Jingzong was open to new ideas. He listened to what his officials told him. For example, he stopped hunting so often. An official suggested that too much hunting might be dangerous.

Preparing for War with Southern Neighbors

Later in his rule, Emperor Jingzong began to get ready for war. He focused on his southern neighbors. These were the lands ruled by the Northern Song dynasty.

Battles with the Northern Song Dynasty

The conflict with the Northern Song dynasty began when Song armies attacked the Northern Han dynasty. Liao forces tried to help Northern Han. However, the Song army defeated the Liao reinforcements. The Song then took over Northern Han.

The Battle for Beijing

After their victory, the Song army attacked Beijing. Beijing was the southern capital of the Liao dynasty. But the Liao army fought back strongly. They completely defeated the Song army. The Song emperor, Emperor Taizong of Song, had to flee the battle.

A Long Stalemate Ensues

Many more battles followed this major victory. Neither the Liao nor the Song could win completely. The fighting led to a long period where neither side gained much ground. This is called a stalemate.

Emperor Jingzong's Health and Succession

Over time, Emperor Jingzong became very ill. He suffered from many diseases. Sometimes, he was too weak to stand during important court meetings. Because of his poor health, his wife, Xiao Yanyan, started to help. She took on many important duties for the country.

On 13 October 982, Emperor Jingzong passed away. He died from his sickness while on a hunting trip. Before he died, he named his son, Yelü Longxu, as his successor. Yelü Longxu was only 11 years old. So, his mother, Empress Xiao Yanyan, became the regent. She ruled the empire until her son was old enough.

Emperor Jingzong's Family

Emperor Jingzong had a family that helped shape the future of the Liao dynasty.

• Empress Ruizhi, of the Xiao clan (Xiao Yanyan)
  • Princess of Qi (Guanyinnü)
  • Yelü Longxu (the future Emperor Shengzong)
  • Yelü Longqing
  • Princess of Wei (Changshounü)
  • Princess of Yue (Yanshounü)
  • Yelü Longyou
• Consort, of Bohai
  • Yelü Shuge
• Lady Mou
  • Yelü Yaoshinu