University of Virginia Library

The apogee of the Former Han period

The reign of Emperor Hsüan (74-48 B.C.) marks the highest point
of Chinese power and civilization during the Former Han period. In
government, in prosperity, in art (cf. 8: 25a), and in its power over
foreign tribes, this reign constitutes the apogee of the period. Never
before was the government so well-administered or so kindly disposed to
the people; never before had there been such good harvests. Emperor
Wu had sent out victorious military expeditions, but never before had
the Huns acknowledged themselves vassals of the Chinese. After this
reign, decline ensued, until the dynasty ended and there came a general
collapse under Wang Mang.

In giving an account of the important events in this reign omitted
from or inadequately discussed in these "Annals," it will perhaps be
worth while to discuss the change in the succession to the throne, the
revolt of the Ho clan, the character of Emperor Hsüan's rule, the submission
of the Huns, and the ascendancy of Confucianism over its rivals.