In the long history of China, many stories and legends have been passed down through word of mouth, including the story of Zhang Tinglu, an official of the Qing Dynasty, leaking the topics of the imperial examination. However, is this story really true? Let's unveil the truth of history together.

Firstly, it should be clarified that Zhang Tinglu was an important official during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, and his life story is detailed in the "Draft History of the Qing Dynasty". However, there is no mention of Zhang Tinglu leaking the topics of the imperial examination in these records. This suggests that the story may be fabricated by later generations or based on unconfirmed rumors.

Secondly, we need to consider that the imperial examination was an important way to select officials in ancient China, and its principles of fairness, justice, and openness were strictly enforced. If Zhang Tinglu really leaked the exam topics, he would have seriously violated these principles and would have been severely punished by the law and condemned by public opinion. However, there is no record in historical accounts of Zhang Tinglu being punished for this reason, which further casts doubt on the authenticity of the story.

Furthermore, we also need to consider that the topics of the imperial examination were personally approved by the emperor, and the topics for each exam were different. This made the possibility of leaking exam topics very small. Even if someone wanted to leak the topics, they would need sufficient power and opportunity. Although Zhang Tinglu was an important official in the court, he did not directly participate in the formulation and approval of the exam topics, so the possibility of him leaking them was also very small.

In summary, although the story of Zhang Tinglu leaking the topics of the imperial examination is widely circulated among the people, its authenticity is highly questionable based on historical records. We should approach history with a more rational and objective attitude, rather than easily believing unconfirmed rumors.

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