Ming Dynasty Wanli Emperor, Zhu Yi Jun

The Wanli Emperor, Zhu Yijun, was one of the longest-reigning rulers of the Ming Dynasty, ascending the throne as a child and presiding over an empire at its height and its turning point. Under the guidance of Grand Secretary Zhang Juzheng, his early reign saw strong reforms, fiscal stability, and effective governance that restored Ming authority.

In later years, Wanli withdrew from court politics, refusing to attend audiences and allowing factionalism to weaken imperial administration. His reign thus embodies both promise and decline, revealing how personal disillusionment and court conflict could erode even a powerful dynasty from within.