Xu Jie vs Yang Lian

Xu Jie was appointed to the Grand Secretariat. He initially maintained a low profile to survive the dominance of Yan Song, carefully building his own network of allies within the Ming court.

Xu Jie orchestrated the downfall of Grand Secretary Yan Song. He manipulated court politics to turn the Jiajing Emperor against Yan Song, leading to Yan's dismissal and the execution of his son. Xu Jie then became the leading Grand Secretary.

After the death of the Jiajing Emperor, Xu Jie used his influence to implement reforms. He reversed some of the previous regime's excesses, reduced government spending, and promoted capable officials, helping to stabilize the Ming state.

Xu Jie retired from his position as Grand Secretary. His retirement was prompted by conflicts with the new Longqing Emperor and rival officials. He returned to his hometown, where he lived until his death in 1583.

Yang Lian became a prominent member of the Donglin faction, aligning with scholars who criticized court corruption and eunuch influence. He gained a reputation for integrity and outspokenness in his memorials to the Ming court.

Yang Lian submitted a memorial to the Tianqi Emperor listing 24 crimes of the eunuch Wei Zhongxian. The memorial accused Wei of usurping imperial authority, persecuting officials, and corrupting the government, but the emperor sided with Wei.

After Wei Zhongxian launched a purge of Donglin officials, Yang Lian was arrested and tortured in prison. He died from injuries sustained during interrogation, becoming a martyr for the Donglin cause and a symbol of resistance to eunuch tyranny.