Emperor Kōnin
The 49th Emperor of Japan; reigned during the Nara period (770–781).
Quick Facts: Who was Emperor Kōnin?
- Subject:
- Emperor Kōnin
- Known for:
- The 49th Emperor of Japan; reigned during the Nara period (770–781).
- Born:
- 709-11-18
- Died:
- 782-01-11
- Century / Era:
- 709s Historical Era Archive
- Verified Source:
- 2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives
Origins & Early Life
Emperor Kōnin (光仁天皇, Kōnin-tennō; November 18, 708 – January 11, 782) was the 49th emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. Kōnin's reign lasted from 770 to 781; he reigned during the Nara period. The personal name of Emperor Kōnin (imina) was Shirakabe (白壁). As a son of Imperial Prince Shiki and a grandson of Emperor Tenji, his formal style was Prince Shirakabe. Initially, he was not in line for succession, as Emperor Tenmu and his branch held the throne.
Career & Major Achievements
He married Imperial Princess Inoe, a daughter of Emperor Shōmu, producing a daughter and a son. After his sister-in-law Empress Shōtoku died, he was named her heir. The high courtiers claimed that the empress had left her will in a letter, appointing him as her successor. Prior to this, he had been considered a gentle man without political ambition. Kōnin had five wives and seven Imperial sons and daughters.
Enduring Legacy & Impact
Emperor Kōnin is traditionally venerated at his tomb; the Imperial Household Agency designates Tahara no Higashi no Misasagi (田原東陵, Tahara no Higashi Imperial Mausoleum), in Nara, Nara, as the location of Kōnin's mausoleum. September 8, 769 (Jingo-keiun 3, 4th day of the 8th month): In the 5th year of Empress Shōtoku's reign, she died; she is said to have written a letter designating Senior Counselor Prince Shirakabe as her heir and crown prince. August 28, 770 (Jingo-keiun 4, 4th day of the 8th month): Exactly one (Japanese era-based) year later, the succession (senso) was received by Kōnin, who was the 62-year-old grandson of Emperor Tenji. October 23, 770 (Jingo-keiun 4, 1st day of the 10th month): Emperor Kōnin was said to have acceded to the throne (sokui) in a formal ceremony, following the plans of the nobles and ministers to have him placed on the throne. The era name was also changed on this date, to Hōki.
Chronological Milestones & Life Events
Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Emperor Kōnin
True or False: “Emperor Kōnin's reign was marked by political stability and uncontested succession.”
Answer (FALSE ❌): His reign was characterized by intense political conflict, including the deposition of his wife and son from the line of succession.
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- 709 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 709
- November 18 (11-18) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on November 18
- 782 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 782
- January 11 (01-11) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on January 11
Frequently Asked Questions about Emperor Kōnin
Who was Emperor Kōnin and what are their primary contributions?
The 49th Emperor of Japan; reigned during the Nara period (770–781). Origins & Early Life: Emperor Kōnin (光仁天皇, Kōnin-tennō; November 18, 708 – January 11, 782) was the 49th emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. Kōnin's reign lasted from 770 to 781; he reigned during the Nara period. The personal name of Emperor Kōnin (imina) was Shirakabe (白壁). As a son of Imperial Prince Shiki and a grandson of Emperor Tenji, his formal style was Prince Shirakabe. Initially, he was not in line for succession, as Emperor Tenmu and his branch held the throne.
When was Emperor Kōnin born and during which historical era did they live?
Emperor Kōnin was born on 0709-11-18 and passed away on 0782-01-11. For complete historical world events during this era, explore the 709 Chrono-Archive.
Where can I read more verified chronological archives on Emperor Kōnin?
Explore verified primary sources, interactive timelines, and contemporary figures in the 2Day Chrono-Wiki encyclopedia or review the original entry on Wikipedia.
Source: Wikipedia