Cai Jing

MedievalPoliticianChina1047 — 1126

Notorious Song chancellor reviled as a traitor.

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Quick Facts

Born

1047

Died

1126

Country

China

Era

Medieval

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)34

Influence (20%)47

Legacy (20%)40

Leadership (15%)65

Strategy (15%)37

Total Score45.2

Cai Jing — Complete Timeline

1102 AD

Implemented the 'New Policies'Reform◆ Major

Cai Jing revived and expanded Wang Anshi's New Policies, including state monopolies on tea and salt, and the 'Green Sprouts' loan system. These measures increased revenue but caused widespread corruption and hardship.

Economic ReformCorruptionSong Dynasty

Impact: nationaldestructive

Appointed Grand CouncilorPolitical Action◆ Major

Cai Jing was appointed Grand Councilor under Emperor Huizong, beginning a long tenure marked by centralization of power. He implemented policies that enriched the court but burdened the populace.

AppointmentGovernmentSong Dynasty

Impact: nationaldestructive

Suppressed the Yuanyou FactionPolitical Action◆ Major

Cai Jing ordered the persecution of the Yuanyou faction, including Su Shi and other conservatives. He erected the 'Stele of Factionalists' listing 309 officials as traitors, leading to executions and exiles.

Political PurgePersecutionSong Dynasty

Impact: nationaldestructive

1126 AD

Fled Kaifeng During Jin InvasionWar◆ Major

As Jurchen Jin forces approached Kaifeng, Cai Jing fled the capital with his family, abandoning his post. He was later captured and died in exile, widely reviled as a traitor who weakened the Song.

Jin InvasionFlightSong Dynasty

Impact: nationaltragic