Al-Maqrizi vs Li Dongyang

Al-Maqrizi was appointed muhtasib, responsible for regulating markets, weights, measures, and public morals in Cairo. This position gave him insight into economic conditions and corruption, which he later criticized in his writings.

Al-Maqrizi wrote a treatise on the famines and plagues that struck Egypt in the early 15th century, analyzing their causes including government corruption, currency debasement, and agricultural decline. He blamed Mamluk policies for the suffering.

Al-Maqrizi resigned as chief judge of the Maliki school in Cairo, citing corruption and interference by Mamluk officials. This act reflected his principled stance and disillusionment with the political establishment.

Al-Maqrizi completed his monumental topographical history of Cairo and Egypt, detailing the city's districts, mosques, markets, and monuments. The work includes economic and social history, documenting the decline of the Mamluk state.

Al-Maqrizi compiled a chronicle of the Mamluk sultanate from 1250 to 1440, focusing on political events, plagues, famines, and monetary crises. The work is a primary source for the decline of the Mamluk state in the 15th century.

Li Dongyang was a central figure in the literary circles of Beijing, known for his poetry and prose. He mentored younger scholars and promoted a return to classical styles, influencing Ming literature.

Li Dongyang was appointed to the Grand Secretariat under the Zhengde Emperor. He served alongside Liu Jin and others, often trying to moderate the eunuch's influence while maintaining his own position.

Li Dongyang oversaw the compilation of the Veritable Records of the Hongzhi Emperor. This official history documented the reign and policies of the previous emperor, a standard practice for Ming historians.