Emperor Yongzheng, the third emperor of the Qing Dynasty, had a tortuous and controversial path to the throne. Among the numerous historical legends, there is a question that has always puzzled people: Why did Yongzheng target the Ninth Prince first instead of the Eighth Prince after ascending the throne? This question involves the complexity of the imperial succession in the Qing Dynasty, as well as Yongzheng's personal character and political wisdom.

The Status of the Ninth and Eighth Princes

The Ninth Prince and the Eighth Prince, the ninth and eighth sons of Emperor Kangxi, were important figures in the late Kangxi period and rivals of Yongzheng. However, from the perspective of status, the Ninth Prince's position was apparently higher than the Eighth Prince. The Ninth Prince was the legitimate eldest son of Emperor Kangxi, while the Eighth Prince was born of a concubine. In feudal society, the status of the legitimate eldest son was much higher than that of a concubine's son, therefore, the Ninth Prince had a significant advantage in the imperial succession.

Yongzheng's Political Wisdom

After ascending the throne, Yongzheng chose to target the Ninth Prince first because he understood that the Ninth Prince posed the greatest threat to him. The Ninth Prince had a high status, strong abilities, and good popularity. If Yongzheng did not act first, he might lose the throne to the Ninth Prince. Although the Eighth Prince was also a rival, his status and abilities were inferior to the Ninth Prince. Therefore, Yongzheng chose to deal with the Ninth Prince first.

Yongzheng's Personal Character

Yongzheng was an extremely intelligent and decisive individual who understood how to use his power. He knew that only by weakening his opponents could he consolidate his position. Therefore, he chose to target the Ninth Prince first. This was a strategic move that successfully weakened the Ninth Prince's power and consolidated Yongzheng's throne.

Conclusion

Overall, Yongzheng's decision to target the Ninth Prince first instead of the Eighth Prince after ascending the throne was a manifestation of his political wisdom and personal character. He understood that only by weakening his opponents could he consolidate his position. This was also one of the important reasons for his successful accession to the throne.

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