Emperor Yingzong of Song (d. 1067)
Emperor Yingzong of Song (宋英宗), whose revered temple name Yingzong (英宗) translates to 'Illustrious Ancestor', was a pivotal, albeit short-reigning, monarch of the Northern Song dynasty of China. Born Zhao Shu (趙曙) on 16 February 1032, he held the imperial throne as the fifth emperor from 1063 until his passing on 25 January 1067.
Originally named Zhao Zongshi (趙宗實), Emperor Yingzong was not the direct son of the preceding Emperor Renzong but rather his cousin. This dynastic situation arose because Emperor Renzong, who had a long and prosperous reign, unfortunately lacked any surviving male heirs, presenting a significant challenge for the imperial succession. To secure the continuation of the Song imperial line, Zhao Zongshi was adopted by Emperor Renzong, a crucial event in his life and for the dynasty's stability. Empress Cao, Emperor Renzong's empress, played a notable role in facilitating this adoption and ensuring a smooth transition of power. In 1062, by imperial decree, his personal name was officially changed from Zhao Zongshi to Zhao Shu. This practice was customary for an heir presumptive, signifying his elevated status and formal acceptance into the direct line of succession and often to avoid using the same character as previous emperors for reverence.
Emperor Yingzong ascended to the throne in 1063, following the death of Emperor Renzong, and reigned for a relatively brief period until his own demise in 1067. Despite the brevity of his four-year reign, known by the era name Zhiping (治平, 1064–1067), Yingzong's period was marked by an emphasis on cultural refinement and political stability. He largely continued the administrative framework established by his predecessor, relying on a cadre of experienced officials to govern effectively. His reign is often seen as a transitional phase, laying some groundwork for the more extensive reforms that would follow. A notable intellectual achievement of his reign was the commissioning of the "Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Governance" (資治通鑑), a monumental work of historical scholarship compiled by Sima Guang and others. This project aimed to provide practical lessons for rulers by chronicling Chinese history, though it was largely completed under his successor.
Upon his death in 1067, Emperor Yingzong was succeeded by his eldest son, Emperor Shenzong (宋神宗). Shenzong's reign would become particularly notable for the ambitious "New Policies" championed by his chief minister, Wang Anshi, which aimed at comprehensive governmental, economic, and social reforms. Yingzong's own reign, therefore, serves as an important bridge between the long and stable rule of Renzong and the era of intense reformist debate under Shenzong, setting the stage for one of the most dynamic periods in Northern Song history.
Who was Emperor Yingzong of Song?
Emperor Yingzong (1032–1067) was the fifth emperor of China's Song dynasty, reigning from 1063 to 1067. His temple name, Yingzong (英宗), means 'Illustrious Ancestor'. He played a transitional role between two significant eras of Song history.
What was Emperor Yingzong's original name?
His original personal name was Zhao Zongshi. It was changed to Zhao Shu in 1062 by imperial decree after his adoption as heir apparent to Emperor Renzong, who had no surviving male heirs.
Why was his name changed to Zhao Shu?
The change of his personal name from Zhao Zongshi to Zhao Shu in 1062 was an imperial decree, a customary practice for an adopted heir presumptive to the throne. This act formally acknowledged his new status within the imperial family and prepared him for his eventual ascension, ensuring a unique and auspicious name for his imperial identity.
How long did Emperor Yingzong reign?
Emperor Yingzong reigned for approximately four years, from 1063 until his death in 1067. Despite its brevity, his reign, known as the Zhiping era, maintained stability and initiated significant historical projects.
Who succeeded Emperor Yingzong?
He was succeeded by his eldest son, Emperor Shenzong, whose reign is historically significant for the implementation of the ambitious reformist "New Policies" championed by the prominent minister Wang Anshi.