Bayan of the Merkid

MedievalPoliticianChina1280 — 1340

Yuan chancellor who attempted to purge Chinese influence.

Compare:vs Napoleon vs Julius Caesar

Quick Facts

Born

1280

Died

1340

Country

China

Era

Medieval

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)23

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)69

Legacy (20%)58

Leadership (15%)85

Strategy (15%)49

Total Score62.2

Bayan of the Merkid — Complete Timeline

1335 AD

Abolition of the civil service examinationsReform◆ Major

Bayan ordered the abolition of the Confucian civil service examinations, which had been reinstated by earlier Yuan emperors. This move was part of his policy to reduce Chinese influence in the government and favor Mongol and Semu officials.

Civil serviceAnti-Chinese policyExaminations

Impact: nationaldestructive

Appointment as Chancellor of the YuanPolitical Action◆ Major

Bayan of the Merkid was appointed as chancellor (chengxiang) under Emperor Toghon Temur. He quickly centralized power, becoming the de facto ruler of the Yuan dynasty.

ChancellorYuan dynastyPower centralization

Impact: national

1337 AD

Prohibition of Chinese language and namesReform◆ Major

Bayan issued decrees forbidding Chinese from learning the Mongol script and requiring them to adopt Mongol names. These measures aimed to suppress Chinese cultural identity and reinforce Mongol dominance.

Cultural suppressionSinophobiaMongolization

Impact: nationaldestructive

1340 AD

Fall from power and deathPolitical Action◆ Major

Emperor Toghon Temur, with the help of Bayan's nephew Toqto'a, staged a coup that removed Bayan from power. Bayan was exiled and died shortly thereafter, ending his anti-Chinese policies.

CoupExileEnd of chancellorship

Impact: nationaltragic