Monday, July 1, 2013

The Leader And Purpose Of The Yellow Turban Rebellion

By Freda Watts


People who are familiar with the ancient history of China may have heard of Zhang Jiao. He is considered as a rebellious leader who caused some significant effects on how the country was operated in the early days, as he initiated the Yellow Turban Rebellion. The name 'Jiao' is also sometimes pronounced as 'Jue', and he thought of himself as the 'Great Teacher'.

Zhang Jiao was not alone in his rebellious quest, as he had two brothers who stood by his side. Their names were Zhang Bao and Zhang Liang. Each brother played different roles in the rebellion, as Zhang Bao was thought of as the 'General of Land', while Zhang Liang was considered as the 'General of People'. Overall, however, it was Zhang Jiao who was the General of Heaven, and who determined the most important proceedings.

This act of great rebellion occurred in 184 AD. It is has also been known as 'The Way of Peace'. China was under the influence of Emperor Ling, and it was the time of the Han Dynasty. The head wrappings which were adorned by the rebels were the reason for the name of the army because of their color. All the rebels of the Yellow Turban Army used these head dresses.

The two brothers of Jiao were younger, and their main practice was to help sick people who were in desperate need of healing. These people could often not pay money for the services offered, but were helped nonetheless. The two brothers were dismayed by the circumstances under which the peasants were forced to live, and did all they could to help them.

Jiao himself, was also a healer. His method of healing was a kind of Taoism, and he relied upon his faith in order to bring about positive changes. All three men did what they could to help others, and also planned the movement that would improve lives. They gave hope to the peasants, as they knew what was coming. They set the stage for the upcoming times of change.

The rebellion happened because of several reasons, but its aim was mainly to improve the way the peasants were being treated. They were totally ruled by the wealthier landowners, and suffered under heavy government taxes as well. The rich only grew richer, while the peasants had no choice but to live as best as they could under the circumstances. There were also floods which destroyed the land nearby the river, and made things worse.

When the time came, thousands upon thousands of men were poised, ready to rebel against the government and any forces that were restricted them. Zhang Jiao had to give orders for the men to advance a bit sooner than usual, but there were no objections. Finally, the people had a chance to stand up for themselves, under the leadership of Zhang Jiao.

Ultimately, the Yellow Turban Rebellion was defeated. They did, however, cause much disruption to the government, and it quickened the demise of the Han Dynasty, which resulted in 220 AD. In later years, a number of other groups followed the lead of this rebellion, claiming to be its successors.




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