Pei Che, chancellor of the Tang Dynasty

Pei Che (裴澈), known by his courtesy name Shenyuan (深源), was a prominent figure during the twilight years of China's Tang dynasty. His career saw him ascend to the esteemed position of chancellor, a role of immense power and responsibility in imperial China, effectively making him a chief minister to the emperor. Born into an era increasingly marked by political instability and regional warlordism, his time in office coincided with a period of severe challenge to the central authority of the Tang empire.

He first held the crucial post of chancellor during the reign of Emperor Xizong, a time famously plagued by widespread rebellions and a weakening imperial court. This era was characterized by internal strife, most notably the devastating Huang Chao Rebellion, which profoundly destabilized the government and often forced the imperial court to flee the capital, Chang'an. In such a tumultuous environment, chancellors like Pei Che faced immense pressure to guide the empire through its deepening crises.

Amidst this ongoing chaos, the political landscape became further fractured. In 886, a new and direct challenge emerged to Emperor Xizong's authority: Li Yun, a prince who, with the backing of the powerful warlord Zhu Mei, declared himself emperor in Chang'an. For reasons that historical records do not fully elaborate on but likely involved political pragmatism or a perceived shift in power, Pei Che transferred his allegiance and continued to serve as chancellor under this pretender, Li Yun. This decision placed him firmly in opposition to the legitimate Tang imperial line and its displaced court.

However, Li Yun's claim to the throne was ultimately short-lived. The political tides quickly turned against him, primarily due to the shifting loyalties of other powerful regional governors and the eventual defeat of his principal backer. When Li Yun's rebellion was crushed, and he himself was apprehended and executed, the fate of those who had supported his short-lived regime was sealed. Pei Che, having served as a key official under the defeated pretender, was subsequently executed on April 6, 887. His death underscored the severe consequences of choosing the wrong side during periods of dynastic collapse and civil war, a common tragic theme in Chinese history where loyalty to the reigning monarch was paramount.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pei Che

Who was Pei Che?

Pei Che was an influential official of the late Tang dynasty, notably serving as a chancellor during a period of significant political upheaval.

What was his courtesy name?

His courtesy name was Shenyuan (深源).

When did Pei Che die?

He was executed on April 6, 887.

Under which emperors did he serve?

He served as chancellor under the legitimate Emperor Xizong, and later, for a brief period, under the pretender to the throne, Li Yun.

What was the role of a chancellor (宰相) in Tang China?

The chancellor was one of the highest-ranking officials, acting as a chief minister to the emperor, advising on state affairs, and overseeing the administration of the empire.

Why was Pei Che executed?

He was executed for his allegiance and service to Li Yun, a prince who had declared himself emperor but was ultimately defeated. Serving a pretender was considered an act of disloyalty to the legitimate Tang emperor.

What was the historical context of his career?

Pei Che lived during the late Tang dynasty, a turbulent period marked by widespread rebellions (like the Huang Chao Rebellion), the rise of powerful warlords, and the gradual decline of central imperial authority, leading to frequent shifts in power and political allegiances.