History
China's Two Jin Dynasties Explained
An essential guide to understanding the two major Jin Dynasties in Chinese history: the Sima clan's rule (266–420) and the Jurchen-led empire (1115–1234).
What is it?
The term "Jin Dynasty" refers to two distinct and unrelated eras in Chinese history.
The first, the Sima Jin Dynasty (266–420 CE), was founded by Emperor Wu (Sima Yan). It is divided into two periods: the Western Jin (266–316) and the Eastern Jin (317–420). The Western Jin briefly reunified China in 280 CE, ending the turbulent Three Kingdoms period. However, this unity was short-lived due to internal power struggles, known as the War of the Eight Princes, and invasions by non-Han peoples. The court was forced to flee south, establishing the Eastern Jin, while the north fractured into the Sixteen Kingdoms.
The second, the Jurchen Jin Dynasty (1115–1234 CE), was founded by the Wanyan clan of the Jurchen people. This powerful empire conquered the Khitan Liao dynasty and the Han-led Northern Song dynasty, controlling much of northern China. The Jurchen rulers adopted many Chinese customs and administrative practices, even fortifying the Great Wall against the Mongols.
Why is it trending?
Historical interest in the Jin Dynasties is often revived by cultural media and new archaeological finds. Recently, in March 2024, the discovery of three elaborately decorated 800-year-old tombs from the Jurchen Jin Dynasty in Shanxi province has brought this era into focus. These tombs, with their intricate murals and inscriptions, offer new insights into the life, culture, and burial customs of the period. Such discoveries generate excitement among historians and the public, shedding new light on a complex period of multi-ethnic rule in China.
How does it affect people?
Understanding the two Jin Dynasties provides a more nuanced view of Chinese history, highlighting periods of both unity and division, as well as significant cultural exchange. The Sima Jin era illustrates the fragility of unification and the profound impact of internal conflict. The Jurchen Jin period challenges the notion of China as a monolithic Han entity, showcasing a powerful dynasty founded by a non-Han people that adopted and contributed to Chinese culture. These periods influenced the development of southern China due to mass migration, saw the flourishing of Buddhism and Taoism, and left a rich legacy in art, literature, and philosophy that continues to be studied today.