Zhao Xiong

Biography

Early Life and Emergence in Sichuan

Zhao Xiong was born in Zizhou, an inland commercial and cultural hub in Sichuan. Growing up amidst the geopolitical shocks of the Jurchen invasions and the establishment of the Southern Song court in Hangzhou, Zhao applied himself diligently to statecraft, history, and military affairs. In 1163, during the reign of Emperor Xiaozong, he took the provincial examination (Leishengshi) in Sichuan, taking the first place. His talent was immediately recognized by the Grand Councilor Yu Yunwen, who recommended him for administrative responsibilities in the western military circuit. ### Audience with Emperor Xiaozong and Diplomatic Renown In 1169, Emperor Xiaozong summoned Zhao Xiong to Hangzhou for an imperial audience. Zhao presented a comprehensive strategic memorial on restoring Song rule to the Central Plains, which resonated deeply with the ambitious emperor. Xiaozong immediately appointed him to the Palace Library. In 1170, when receiving Jin envoy Yelu Yi, Zhao probed enemy intentions with precision. The following year, Zhao served as ambassador to the Jin capital of Zhongdu. Facing intimidation and aggressive diplomatic rhetoric from Jurchen courtiers, Zhao stood firm, eloquently countering every claim and upholding the dignity of the Song sovereign. The Jurchen ministers, stunned by his composure and imposing stature, remarked that conversing with him was like "fighting a dragon" (Longdou). ### Grand Councilorship and Governance Upon his return, Zhao rose rapidly through the bureaucratic hierarchy. By 1178, he was appointed Right Grand Councilor and Commissioner of Military Affairs. During his tenure as sole Grand Councilor, Zhao pursued financial retrenchment, merit-based civil service examinations, and rigorous border security. However, his strong support for officials originating from Sichuan eventually aroused suspicions of regional factionalism among court rivals. In 1181, Zhao stepped down from the premiership and was sent back to govern Sichuan as Pacification Commissioner, where he spent several years easing agrarian burdens, replenishing granaries, and training local garrisons. ### Later Years and Legacy With the ascension of Emperor Guangzong in 1189, Zhao's lifelong service was recognized with the aristocratic title Duke of Wei, and he was entrusted with the crucial strategic prefecture of Jiangling in Hubei. Despite advancing years and declining health, Zhao maintained rigorous vigilance over defensive posts along the middle Yangtze. In the winter of 1193, Zhao died in office at the age of sixty-five. In 1209, Emperor Ningzong conferred upon him the posthumous title Wending.

Major Activities

Diplomatic Triumph as 'Dragon Fighter'

During his diplomatic missions to the Jin Empire in the Qiandao era, Zhao Xiong resolutely rebuffed Jurchen pressure regarding tributary protocols. His unwavering defense of Song sovereignty earned him high respect even from the northern regime. ### Stewardship of Sichuan Borderlands As Pacification Commissioner of Sichuan, Zhao Xiong effectively counteracted corruption in local tea and horse monopolies, repaired mountain fortifications, and ensured that the southwest remained a bastion of military strength for the dynasty.

Personal Relations

• Sovereign: Emperor Xiaozong of Song (patron who elevated him from local scholar to Grand Councilor)
• Mentor: Yu Yunwen (celebrated statesman who recognized and sponsored Zhao Xiong)
• Successor Sovereign: Emperor Guangzong of Song (enfeoffed him as Duke of Wei)

Historical Assessment

• History of Song (Song Shi): "Zhao Xiong was tall and imposing, possessed profound foresight, and dared to speak without fear. When sent as envoy to the north, the Jurchens held him in awe."
• Emperor Xiaozong: "Zhao Xiong's loyalty and fortitude are evident; he is a pillar of our restoration."
• Zhu Xi: Praised Zhao Xiong's personal integrity and scholarly dedication while critiquing the bureaucratic constraints of the Chunxi council.