Qian Hongzun facts for kids

Qian Hongzun (born in 925 – died on June 7, 940) was an important figure in the ancient Chinese state of Wuyue. He was known as Heir Apparent Xiaoxian, which means "the filial and wise heir apparent." Qian Hongzun was the chosen successor to his father, Qian Yuanguan, who was the King of Wuyue during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period in China. Sadly, Qian Hongzun passed away before his father, so he never became king.

Early Life and Family

Qian Hongzun was born in the year 925. He was the fifth son of his father, Qian Yuanguan, who was also known as Qian Chuanguan. At the time of Qian Hongzun's birth, his father was serving under Qian Hongzun's grandfather, Qian Liu. Qian Liu was the very first king of the Wuyue state.

Qian Yuanguan was in charge of two main areas, called circuits: Zhenhai and Zhendong. Zhenhai was based in Wuyue's capital city, Hang Prefecture (modern-day Hangzhou, Zhejiang). Zhendong was located in modern-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang. Qian Hongzun's mother was Lady Fu.

Even though he was listed as the fifth son, some historical records suggest that Qian Hongzun was the first biological son born to Qian Yuanguan. This was because Qian Yuanguan and his main wife, Lady Ma, did not have any sons for a long time. Lady Ma even asked King Qian Liu for special permission for her husband to have children with other women, which was usually not allowed for officials.

Becoming the Heir Apparent

In 932, Qian Hongzun's grandfather, King Qian Liu, passed away. After his death, Qian Hongzun's father, Qian Chuanguan, took control of the Wuyue state. He changed his name to Qian Yuanguan. At first, he didn't claim the title of king. Instead, he continued to serve as a military governor, showing loyalty to the Later Tang dynasty in central China.

During this time, Qian Hongzun was given important roles. He became the deputy military governor for Zhenhai and Zhendong. He also received an honorary title as a military prefect of Guo Prefecture. This was just a title, as Guo Prefecture was actually controlled by another state called Later Shu.

In 937, the Later Tang dynasty had fallen, and Wuyue became a state loyal to the new Later Jin dynasty. It was then that Qian Yuanguan officially became the King of Wuyue. He chose Qian Hongzun to be his heir apparent, meaning the person who would inherit the throne. A special mansion was even built for Qian Hongzun.

However, Qian Hongzun's life was cut short. He died in 940, before his father. Because of this, he was never able to become king. After Qian Hongzun's death, his younger brother, Qian Hongzuo, eventually became the next ruler of Wuyue.