Most Qing emperors were renowned for their diligent governance, with Yongzheng standing out as a particularly exceptional ruler. Sakuji Saeki, a Japanese historian, lauded him, saying: “Without Yongzheng, the Qing Dynasty would have likely faced an early decline.” He was an emperor of remarkable political acumen and capability.
Emperor Yongzheng’s strict governance and high moral standards
Emperor Yongzheng firmly believed that without clean and effective governance, peace for the people was unattainable. Corruption and mediocrity found no place in his regime. For instance, Wang Xi, the county magistrate of Cao County in Shandong, was dismissed and sentenced to five years in prison for failing to solve a theft case and apprehend the suspect within his first year in office, highlighting Yongzheng’s intolerance for inefficiency and negligence.
In another instance, Wang Yunjin, the top scholar of his year, misplaced a playing card while playing with friends on New Year’s Day. When Yongzheng inquired about his New Year’s activities, Wang candidly recounted the incident. Impressed by his honesty, Yongzheng entrusted him with the important task of editing the national history.
The Emperor valued officials who demonstrated both integrity and competence, preferring them over those who merely adhered to bureaucratic formalities. He once gave a proclamation to Wu Guanjie, the Governor of Yanzhou in Shandong. Wu, holding the proclamation in high regard, displayed it in his bedroom and even had it inscribed on the screen in his office. However, Yongzheng disapproved, stating that Wu was not exceptionally talented and should focus on fulfilling his responsibilities rather than engaging in personal aggrandizement.
Eradicating the pursuit of personal fame among officials
To combat the culture of officials seeking personal fame, Yongzheng strictly prohibited the practice of citizens lobbying to retain retiring officials or building shrines and monuments in their honor.
Rigorous financial oversight
From a young age, Yongzheng was exposed to governance and political affairs. He ascended the throne at 45, with a clear understanding of the corruption and malpractices in the administration. Determined to reform governance and improve public welfare, he initiated policies to distinguish between public and private matters and tirelessly worked to eliminate corrupt practices.
Immediately after his accession, Yongzheng issued a decree for a comprehensive audit of financial records. Provincial governors and superintendents were tasked with strict financial scrutiny, and any deficits had to be replenished within three years without burdening the populace. Failure to comply resulted in severe penalties. This policy led to the dismissal and property confiscation of over 2,100 officials, including the Emperor’s own brothers and relatives of the “Dream of the Red Chamber” author, Cao Xueqin.
Prohibiting gifts to superiors
Yongzheng abolished the customary practice of local officials presenting monetary gifts to their superiors. He also eradicated “department fees,” akin to kickbacks for central government officials, demonstrating his commitment to clean governance.
In 1726, two officials, Li Bin of Guangdong and Tao Fan of Fujian, committed suicide amid corruption investigations. Yongzheng held their families accountable, reflecting his resolve to eradicate corruption completely.
A reign of uncompromised integrity
Yongzheng’s reign is often cited as a period where no official was corrupt. Even his favored courtier, Nian Gengyao, was not spared when found guilty of corruption. Yongzheng dismissed him, confiscated his property, and ordered his suicide, showcasing his unyielding stance against corruption and abuse of power.
Yongzheng’s reign remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to effective governance and integrity, setting a high standard for future rulers in Chinese history.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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