An Lushan Chinese warlord Date of Birth: 01.01.0703 Country: China

1. Early Life and Background
2. Political Ambitions and Influence
3. Close Relationship with the Imperial Court
4. Prelude to Rebellion
5. The Rebellion
6. Tang Response and Collapse
7. An Lushan's Reign and Assassination
8. Aftermath of the Rebellion
9. Legacy

Early Life and Background

An Lushan was a Sogdian military commander who served in the Tang dynasty. His father worked under the Turkic Khagan, and after the collapse of the Khaganate, An's family fled to the Tang court.

Political Ambitions and Influence

An Lushan's military talents were recognized by the Chinese authorities, who promoted him through the ranks. He became a trusted ally of Li Linfu, the powerful prime minister, who favored Sogdians to counterbalance the influence of experienced Chinese officials.

Close Relationship with the Imperial Court

An Lushan often visited the capital, where he befriended Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved concubine, Yang Guifei. His jovial nature and willingness to entertain her led to rumors of a romantic relationship between them.

Prelude to Rebellion

Yang Guifei's cousin, Yang Guozhong, became Li Linfu's successor as the de facto ruler. He attempted to limit An Lushan's power, which angered the general.

The Rebellion

In 755, An Lushan rallied his troops and declared a rebellion against the Tang dynasty. He marched on the capital, Chang'an, while his son was executed by imperial forces. After capturing Luoyang, the eastern capital, he proclaimed himself emperor of the Yan dynasty.

Tang Response and Collapse

The Tang army initially defended Chang'an, but Yang Guozhong's suspicions of treachery led to a disastrous defeat. Emperor Xuanzong fled, leaving the rebels to occupy the capital.

An Lushan's Reign and Assassination

An Lushan remained in Luoyang, suffering from diabetes and blindness. His increasingly erratic behavior culminated in his murder by his eunuch, Li Zhu'er, in 757.

Aftermath of the Rebellion

An Lushan's rebellion exposed the weakness of the Tang dynasty and its reliance on steppe mercenaries. The rebellion lasted for six years before being put down, with the Tang emperor returning to power at the cost of appeasement towards rebel leaders.

Legacy

An Lushan became a symbol for Turkic mercenaries and their ambitions within the Tang dynasty. His success sparked suspicion towards foreigners among the Chinese, leading to a period of unrest and instability within the dynasty.