Kyansittha vs Li Shi

After succeeding King Sawlu, Kyansittha suppressed a Mon rebellion and stabilized the Pagan Empire. He implemented administrative reforms, promoted Theravada Buddhism, and fostered cultural exchange with the Mon people, strengthening the empire's unity and laying the foundation for its golden age.

Kyansittha actively promoted Theravada Buddhism as the state religion, building numerous monasteries and stupas. He invited Buddhist monks from Sri Lanka and the Mon region to spread the faith, which became a unifying force in the Pagan Empire and shaped Burmese religious identity.

King Kyansittha commissioned the construction of the Ananda Temple in Bagan, one of the finest examples of Mon-style Buddhist architecture. The temple, completed around 1105, features four standing Buddha statues and intricate carvings, and remains a major pilgrimage site and symbol of Pagan's cultural achievement.

Li Shi adopted the Two-Tax System proposed by Chancellor Yang Yan. This reform replaced the equal-field system with a simplified tax based on land and property, collected twice a year. It increased revenue but also increased the burden on peasants.

Troops from Jingyuan mutinied in Chang'an, forcing Li Shi to flee. The mutineers supported Zhu Ci as emperor. Li Shi's forces, with help from loyalist jiedushi, eventually suppressed the rebellion and recaptured the capital in 784.

After the Jingyuan Mutiny, Li Shi attempted to reduce the power of military governors by appointing civil officials and rotating commanders. These efforts had limited success, as the fanzhen remained largely autonomous.

Li Shi died in 805 after a reign marked by attempts at fiscal and administrative reform. His death led to a succession crisis and the brief reign of his son, who was soon deposed by eunuchs.