Map Introduction

The Liu Song Dynasty (420–479 AD) was the first of the Southern Dynasties in China's Northern and Southern Dynasties period. It was founded by Liu Yu, with its capital established at Jiankang (present-day Nanjing).

Founding and Consolidation
After securing de facto power through military reforms and political maneuvers in the late Eastern Jin, Liu Yu formally usurped the Jin throne in 420, establishing the Liu Song regime. In its early years, the dynasty unified southern China by suppressing revolts such as that of Huan Xuan and defeating states like the Later Qin, expanding its territory as far as the Huai River region and parts of modern Shandong. The government implemented the "Tuduan" (land registration) policy to curb land annexation by powerful elites, reformed the bureaucracy, and promoted agricultural production—a period historically known as the "Yuanjia Reign's Golden Age."

Crisis and Decline
Following Liu Yu’s death, his successor, Emperor Wen (Liu Yilong), continued centralization policies. However, the latter part of his reign was marked by corruption, intensifying conflicts between aristocratic families and the lower gentry. In 450, the Sun En rebellion broke out, further destabilizing the regime. In 479, the powerful minister Xiao Daocheng usurped the throne and established the Southern Qi Dynasty, bringing the Liu Song to an end.

Historical Legacy
The Liu Song Dynasty ended the era of dominant aristocratic clans that had characterized the Eastern Jin, opening a new phase where individuals from humble backgrounds could attain high office. Economically, the "Tuduan" reforms stimulated the development of the Jiangnan region. Culturally, the period saw the emergence of literary figures such as Xie Lingyun and Yan Yanzhi, and the compilation of notable works like "A New Account of the Tales of the World" (Shishuo Xinyu). At its peak, the dynasty’s territory extended north to Tong Pass and the Yellow River, and southwest to central Vietnam.