Shi Heng, a famous general in the early Ming Dynasty, established illustrious war merits during the Jingnan Campaign. However, he is controversial in history due to his act of betrayal. So, why did Shi Heng betray those who had shown him kindness? This article will reveal this mystery based on historical data.

First, the origins between Shi Heng and Zhu Qizhen.

Shi Heng had a profound relationship with Zhu Qizhen, the Ming Yingzong Emperor. During the Jingnan Campaign, Shi Heng served as a trusted general of Prince Yan Zhu Di, while Zhu Qizhen was Zhu Di's half-brother. The two fought side by side on the battlefield, establishing a deep friendship.

Second, the suspicion of Emperor Zhu Di.

During the reign of Emperor Zhu Di, he suppressed the imperial clan's power to consolidate his own throne. This made Zhu Qizhen, when he became the emperor, be highly suspicious, even involving his own trusted ministers.

Third, Shi Heng's loyalty and betrayal.

Faced with Emperor Zhu Di's suspicion, Shi Heng chose to be loyal to Zhu Qizhen. He once strongly supported Zhu Qizhen in front of Emperor Zhu Di, expressing his willingness to fight for the throne. However, after Emperor Zhu Di's death, Shi Heng betrayed Zhu Qizhen and surrendered to Zhu Xianzong, Zhu Di's son.

Fourth, the reasons for Shi Heng's betrayal.

There are several main reasons why Shi Heng betrayed Zhu Qizhen:

1. Political interests: Shi Heng believed that Zhu Qizhen had no right to inherit the throne, and Zhu Xianzong was more likely to become the next emperor. Therefore, for his own political interests, Shi Heng chose to surrender to Zhu Xianzong.

2. Personal grievances: There were personal grudges between Shi Heng and Zhu Qizhen. During the Jingnan Campaign, Shi Heng was framed by Zhu Qizhen because he supported Zhu Di, causing his family to suffer heavy losses. Therefore, Shi Heng harbored resentment against Zhu Qizhen.

3. Court struggles: Political struggles in the Ming Dynasty were fierce. Shi Heng had to choose to stand on the side of the stronger party for his own status and interests. However, when Zhu Qizhen was in power, his strength was relatively weak, unable to provide Shi Heng with sufficient benefits.

In conclusion, Shi Heng's act of betrayal was due to his complex political environment, facing numerous temptations of interests and personal grudges. However, this betrayal made him bear heavy moral pressure, becoming a tragic figure in history. It also shows us the cruelty of political struggles in the Ming Dynasty and the helplessness of human nature in the face of power.

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