Shunzhi Emperor of China (original) (raw)

Emperor Shunzhi was the second Qing emperor (as the emperor of the Chinese part of the empire, he was the first emperor of the dynasty). He reigned from 1644 to 1661. In 1644, Manchu people finally seized the control of the whole China and Shunzhi made the declaration that Qin Dynasty had became the true successor of Ming Dynasty under Mandate of Heaven. Therefore although he was not the founder of Qing Dynasty, he was referred to as the first emperor of Qin Dynasty of China.

He became the emperor of the Qing dynasty at the age of six. His mother was Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang who was an excellent politician during the period. His uncle, Prince Dorgon became the regent due to Shun Zhi's age together with Jirgalang. The young emperor disliked his uncle and after the regent's death, the emperor stripped off his titles and his brother, Dodo's titles as well. At that time, Fulin was only 12 years old. He was married to his mother's niece but demoted the empress several years later.

During his short reign, he encouraged the Han Chinese to participate in the government activities. He was a scholar and employed the Han Chinese to teach his children.

Four months after his favourite concubine passed away, he died of smallpox. Before he passed away, he appointed four regents to help his son, Hiowan Yei. They were Oboi, Sonin, Suksaha and Ebilun.

It was believed that the young emperor did not pass away but left the palace to become a monk.