Treaty of Shaoxing

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Shaoxing?

Subject:

Treaty of Shaoxing

Known for:

The 1141 treaty ending Jin-Southern Song conflict, forcing Song tribute and territorial renunciation.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The Treaty of Shaoxing emerged from the prolonged and intense military struggles between the powerful Jin dynasty and the beleaguered Southern Song dynasty. This agreement served not only as a truce but also as a formal legal demarcation of the territories belonging to both nations. Crucially, the treaty compelled the Southern Song to abandon all historical claims to the northern lands, specifically those formerly held by the Northern Song dynasty. This forced renunciation included the vital former capital city of Kaifeng, fundamentally altering the geopolitical map of China.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

The core provisions of the treaty mandated that the Southern Song pay substantial annual tribute to the suzerain Jin dynasty. This tribute was set at a considerable amount, specifically 250,000 taels and 250,000 packs of silk each year, a commitment that lasted until 1164. The treaty effectively relegated the Southern Song into a quasi-tributary state under the authority of the Jin. Furthermore, the formal ratification of this agreement occurred on 11 October 1142, solidifying the terms established in 1141.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The Treaty of Shaoxing dramatically reduced the sovereignty and autonomy of the Southern Song Dynasty, establishing a clear pattern of vassalage to the Jin. This historical outcome is considered a pivotal moment in Chinese dynastic history, marking a significant decline in the Song's imperial ambitions. The treaty's terms dictated a tributary relationship, which profoundly impacted the cultural and political trajectory of the Southern Song for decades to come, despite subsequent conflicts.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1142: 1142 Milestone — Furthermore, the formal ratification of this agreement occurred on 11 October 1142, solidifying the terms established in 1141.
2. 1164: 1164 Milestone — This tribute was set at a considerable amount, specifically 250,000 taels and 250,000 packs of silk each year, a commitment that lasted until 1164.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Shaoxing

True or False: “The Treaty of Shaoxing guaranteed the Southern Song Dynasty full sovereignty over all territories north of the Qinling Huaihe Line.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The treaty forced the Southern Song to renounce all claims to its former Northern Song territories north of the Qinling Huaihe Line, including Kaifeng.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Eisai — Historical peer (Born in 1141) (1141): Founder of the Rinzai Zen school in Japan, credited with introducing Zen and green tea.
• Kumagai Naozane — Historical peer (Born in 1141) (1141): Famous Japanese warrior known for his role in the Genpei War and later as a Buddhist priest.
• Emperor Rokujō — Historical peer (Born in 1164) (1164): 79th Emperor of Japan; reigned briefly from 1165 to 1168.
• Emperor Sutoku — Historical peer (Died in 1164) (1164): 75th Emperor of Japan during the late Heian period, known for his powerful legacy.
• Peter Abelard — Historical peer (Died in 1142) (1142): Brilliant and controversial French philosopher, logician, and theologian of the twelfth century.
• Yue Fei — Historical peer (Died in 1142) (1142): Iconic Song Dynasty general, celebrated for unwavering patriotism and military prowess.

Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Shaoxing