To exert oneself to make a country prosperous and well-governed; to make vigorous efforts to improve the administration and strengthen the land.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
In 74 BC, Emperor Zhao of Han, Liu Fuling, passed away without an heir. Huo Guang, the Grand Sima and Grand General who held immense power in the court, enthroned Liu Xun, the great-grandson of Emperor Wu, as the new emperor. This was Emperor Xuan of Han.
In 68 BC, Huo Guang died of illness. Wei Xiang, the Grand Imperial Censor, drawing lessons from history and observing the arbitrary and dictatorial behavior of the Huo clan, suggested that Emperor Xuan take measures to curb their power. The Huo clan harbored intense resentment and fear towards Wei Xiang, so they fabricated an imperial decree from the Empress Dowager, intending to first assassinate Wei Xiang and then depose Emperor Xuan.
Upon learning of this plot, Emperor Xuan took preemptive action, executing the entire Huo clan. From then on, Emperor Xuan personally took charge of state affairs, invigorating his spirit and striving to make the country prosperous and strong. He directly listened to the opinions of his ministers, strictly evaluated and demanded excellence from officials at all levels; he also lowered salt prices, advocated frugality, and encouraged the development of agricultural production.
Wei Xiang, leading the numerous officials, performed his duties diligently, which greatly pleased Emperor Xuan. With Wei Xiang's cooperation, Emperor Xuan implemented a series of effective measures that benefited agricultural production and alleviated the burden on the people, ultimately leading the country to flourish and prosper. His twenty-five-year reign brought about a period of restoration and resurgence for the already declining Western Han dynasty.