Sui Dynasty

[YingZheng]

The Sui Dynasty (581-618) lasted for only 37 years -- from Yang Jian,
known as Emperor Wendi who set up the Sui Dynasty in 581 -- to Yang
Guang, Emperor Yangdi, who was slain in 618. Being a typical,
short-lived dynasty, the Sui enjoyed a significant historical status
because it had established many policies that were later adopted by the
Tang Dynasty (618-907). Furthermore, Emperor Gaozu of the Tang Dynasty
was a relative of Yang Guang, Sui Emperor Yangdi. Hence, to a certain
extent, the Tang Dynasty was an extension of the Sui and history books
often use the combination Sui-Tang to refer the two separate dynasties.
Yang Jian, Sui Emperor Wendi, contributed a lot to Chinese history
during this period, namely the reform of official systems. He abolished
the six-officials system adopted by the Northern Zhou and replaced it
with three departments and six boards -- a system that was retained by
the Tang and acquired by Japan during the reform. The Sui Emperor also
implemented the system of imperial examinations to replace the Wei-Jin
system, where local officials were selected based on the recommendation
of prefects. This system was hailed as a great achievement that was
more impartial and reasonable than the previous ones, enabling more
talented people to assume official careers.

During the reign of Emperor Yangdi, the Grand Canal was constructed --
a water transport artery that helped promote economic development and
unify the country. Despite his achievements, Emperor Yangdi was also
notorious for his cruelty: He killed all four of his brothers and
farther, Emperor Wendi, for the throne. Emperor Yangdi's cruelty
aroused the indignation of the masses. He was hanged in Jiangdu, which
marked the end of the Sui Dynasty.