Relations With China
The Later Zhou Dynasty took advantage of Muzong’s troubles to consolidate its position in North China, a region that had been under the influence of the Khitan since earlier in the century. Despite this, the Northern Han, who remained under the protection of the Liao Dynasty were able to maintain their independence.
The Later Zhou emperor attacked Liao positions in 958 in an attempt to regain the Sixteen Prefectures. This provoked Muzong to lead a large army to the southern capital (modern-day Beijing). Military confrontation was averted with the death of the Later Zhou emperor. Early the next year, Muzong returned to the capital.
Midway through Muzong’s reign, the Song Dynasty had supplanted the last of the Five Dynasties, the Later Zhou Dynasty. Relations with the Song were peaceful during the reign of Muzong. Despite this peace, there were two issues outstanding between the two states that would result in war following Muzong’s reign: those of the Sixteen Prefectures and Northern Han state. Neither of these issues would be resolved during the reign of Muzong. The two states began exchanging annual visitations on New Year’s Day. Profitable trade also continued to grow between the two sides.
Read more about this topic: Emperor Muzong Of Liao
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