Zhang Tingyu

Zhang Tingyu was appointed Grand Secretary of the Qing Empire, serving under the Yongzheng Emperor. He became a central figure in the administration, overseeing state affairs and drafting imperial edicts.

Upon the death of the Yongzheng Emperor, Zhang Tingyu was appointed as one of the regents for the young Qianlong Emperor. He helped manage the transition of power and continued to advise the new emperor during the early years of his reign.

Zhang Tingyu oversaw the compilation of the official 'History of Ming' (Mingshi), a comprehensive dynastic history of the Ming Dynasty. The work was completed in 1739 and became the standard historical reference for the Ming period.

Zhang Tingyu retired from his official positions after serving three emperors (Kangxi, Yongzheng, Qianlong). His retirement marked the end of a long and influential career in the Qing bureaucracy.