Rashid al-Din Hamadani vs Xu Jie

Rashid al-Din converted from Judaism to Islam around the age of 50, likely to advance his career under the Muslim convert Ghazan Khan. His conversion allowed him to serve as vizier and demonstrated the fluid religious boundaries in the Mongol Ilkhanate.

Rashid al-Din was appointed vizier to the Ilkhanid ruler Ghazan Khan. He became the chief administrator of the Ilkhanate, overseeing financial reforms, agricultural development, and the implementation of Ghazan's conversion to Islam, which reshaped Mongol rule in Persia.

Rashid al-Din founded the Rab'-i Rashidi, a charitable and scholarly complex in Tabriz. It included a mosque, hospital, library, and academy, where scholars from various cultures worked. The complex served as a center for the production of his historical works and manuscripts.

Rashid al-Din wrote 'Jami' al-tawarikh', a world history commissioned by Ghazan Khan. It covered the history of the Mongols, China, India, Europe, and the Islamic world, making it one of the first universal histories. The work was illustrated with Persian miniatures, influencing Islamic art.

Rashid al-Din was executed on charges of poisoning Sultan

Xu Jie was appointed to the Grand Secretariat. He initially maintained a low profile to survive the dominance of Yan Song, carefully building his own network of allies within the Ming court.

Xu Jie orchestrated the downfall of Grand Secretary Yan Song. He manipulated court politics to turn the Jiajing Emperor against Yan Song, leading to Yan's dismissal and the execution of his son. Xu Jie then became the leading Grand Secretary.

After the death of the Jiajing Emperor, Xu Jie used his influence to implement reforms. He reversed some of the previous regime's excesses, reduced government spending, and promoted capable officials, helping to stabilize the Ming state.

Xu Jie retired from his position as Grand Secretary. His retirement was prompted by conflicts with the new Longqing Emperor and rival officials. He returned to his hometown, where he lived until his death in 1583.