Liu Jin vs Zhangsun Wuji

Liu Jin gained the trust of the young Zhengde Emperor and became the most powerful eunuch in the court. He controlled access to the emperor and used his position to amass wealth and eliminate rivals.

Liu Jin revived and expanded the Eastern Depot, a secret police force under eunuch control. He used it to spy on officials and suppress dissent, creating a climate of fear in the Ming court.

After a rebellion against his rule, Liu Jin was arrested and sentenced to death by slow slicing. His execution marked the end of his dominance and was carried out publicly in Beijing.

Zhangsun Wuji was a key planner of the Xuanwu Gate Incident, which allowed Li Shimin to seize power. He urged Li Shimin to act decisively against his brothers. After the coup, he was rewarded with high office and became one of Emperor Taizong's most trusted advisors.

Emperor Taizong appointed Zhangsun Wuji as Grand Chancellor (Shangshu You Pushe), making him one of the highest-ranking officials. He served as a key advisor on military and civil matters. His sister was Empress Zhangsun, which strengthened his position at court.

Zhangsun Wuji oversaw the compilation of the Tang Code (Tang L

Zhangsun Wuji strongly opposed Emperor Gaozong's plan to depose Empress Wang and appoint Wu Zetian as empress. He argued that Wu was not of suitable background. His opposition led to a conflict with the emperor, and he was eventually forced out of office.

After losing favor with Emperor Gaozong, Zhangsun Wuji was accused of treason by Wu Zetian's allies. He was exiled to Qianzhou (modern Chongqing) and ordered to commit suicide. His family members were also executed or exiled. This ended the Zhangsun clan's influence.