Map Introduction

Historical Context and Evolution of the Tang Dynasty in 741 AD

The year 741 AD, corresponding to the 29th year of the Kaiyuan era under Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, marked the late stage of the "Kaiyuan Era of Prosperity" during the High Tang period. It was a pivotal moment characterized by peak national strength and flourishing economic and cultural prosperity. The following analysis examines the political, economic, military, and cultural aspects of this period.

Politics and Governance * Strengthened Central Authority: In the early part of his reign, Emperor Xuanzong continued the reforms initiated at the start of the Kaiyuan era. He appointed capable chief ministers like Yao Chong and Song Jing to reform the bureaucracy, curb the power of the aristocracy, and reinforce central authority. * Local Administrative Adjustments: In 733 AD (the 21st year of Kaiyuan), the empire was divided into fifteen circuits (dao). Investigative Commissioners (caifangshi) were added to supervise local administrations. Concurrently, the Jiedushi system (military governors) was strengthened, sowing the seeds for the future An Lushan Rebellion.

Economic Development * Agriculture and Taxation: Although the Equal-Field System (juntian zhi) was gradually disintegrating, the early policy of light corvée labor and low taxes had fostered sustained agricultural development. The economic importance of the Jiangnan region (south of the Yangtze) was on the rise. * Commercial Prosperity: Chang'an and Luoyang became international metropolises. Trade along the Silk Road was vibrant, and the commodity economy reached unprecedented levels.

Military and Frontiers * Expansion of the Jiedushi: Ten major Jiedushi military commands were established in the border regions (e.g., Anxi, Fanyang). This concentration of military power on the frontiers created an imbalance, leaving the central provinces vulnerable ("strong outer, weak inner" military structure). * Foreign Wars: Following the Battle of Talas in 751 AD, relations with the Abbasid Caliphate were tense. However, by 741 AD, the Tang Dynasty still maintained control over the Western Regions.

Culture and Society * Cultural Zenith: Artistic achievements in poetry, painting, and music were exceptional. Poets like Li Bai and Du Fu were active during the later Kaiyuan era. * Open Society: Chang'an attracted envoys and merchants from various countries. Religions such as Buddhism and Nestorianism were widely disseminated, reflecting a fusion of diverse cultures.

Latent Crises and Turning Point * Emperor Xuanzong's Neglect of Governance: After 741 AD, Emperor Xuanzong increasingly indulged in pleasure-seeking. Chief ministers like Li Linfu gained power, leading to intensified political corruption. * Land Annexation: Aristocrats and bureaucrats encroached upon farmland. The collapse of the Equal-Field System led to an increase in fleeing peasants, accumulating social tensions.

Summary In 741 AD, the Tang Dynasty exhibited surface-level prosperity. However, the loosening of central control, military imbalance, and land problems had already laid the groundwork for the catastrophic An Lushan Rebellion, which would erupt in 755 AD. This period represents both the pinnacle of the High Tang and the critical turning point towards its eventual decline.

Knowledge points

• Tang Dynasty

Geographic location map

• Tang Dynasty 741 years when the whole map
• Tang Dynasty 741 years when the Turkic map
• Tibetan Map of the Tang Dynasty in 741