The Historical Map of the Capital North Zhili in the Ming Dynasty
Map Introduction
I. Administrative Divisions and Historical Development
Shuntian Prefecture, serving as the capital prefecture of the Ming Dynasty, originated from the Yuan Dynasty's Dadu Route. In 1368 (the 1st year of Hongwu), it was renamed Beiping Prefecture. In 1403 (the 1st year of Yongle), Zhu Di elevated it to Beijing and renamed it Shuntian Prefecture, asserting the legitimacy of his "Jingnan" campaign. Initially governing just Wanping and Daxing counties, its jurisdiction later expanded to 24 subordinate departments and counties, covering areas of modern Beijing, Tianjin, and parts of Hebei. The Prefect held a rank of 3a, higher than ordinary prefects, and was assisted by officials like the Vice Prefect, Second Prefect, and Subprefects, responsible for judicial, financial, and ceremonial matters within the capital region. Uniquely, the Prefect could submit memorials directly to the emperor, forming a distinct administrative system separate from regular local governments.
II. Political Functions and Strategic Importance
Dual Administrative Structure After moving the capital, Zhu Di retained the Six Ministries in Nanjing while establishing parallel institutions in Shuntian Prefecture, creating a "Two Capitals" system. This design strengthened northern border defense and consolidated imperial authority through checks and balances. The Prefect of Shuntian was often concurrently held by a Minister-level official, and his silver seal was of the same specification as a Governor-General's, highlighting the capital region's unique status.
Military Defense System Tongzhou, a crucial hub of the grain transport system, had one of the highest concentrations of garrison troops in the empire; the early Ming northern expedition led by Xu Da used it as a breakthrough point. The Yong'an Fortress in Changping and the Juyong Pass constituted the northwestern defense line, with the Ming Tombs further solidifying its role as the "protective screen of the capital." The defensive function of Shuntian Prefecture was significantly enhanced after the Tumu Crisis of 1449.
III. Economic and Cultural Development
Canal-Driven Economic Belt Tongzhou derived its name from its role in ensuring successful "water transport," handling up to 4 million shi of grain annually and becoming a national commodity distribution center. Specialized markets emerged along the Grand Canal, such as the Zhangjiawan Tax Office, spurring the growth of handicrafts and service industries. Agricultural development was exemplified by settlements like the "Seventy-Two Linked Camps" in Daxing, formed by Shanxi migrants.
Cultural Confluence Missionaries like Matteo Ricci introduced Western science and technology through Shuntian Prefecture; his Kunyu Wanguo Quantu synthesized Chinese and Western geographical knowledge. The Gazetteer of Shuntian Prefecture compiled during the Wanli era systematically documented local history, while officials like Shen Yingwen promoted Confucian education. In popular culture, the dietary habits of Tongzhou's canal workers gave rise to local specialties like "Dashunzhai" baked sugar cakes.
IV. Major Historical Events * The Guangning Gate Incident (1607): The fatal assault of a local official by tax superintendent eunuchs exposed the eunuchs' usurpation of power and the dynasty's severe financial crisis in its later years. * The Zhang Zhu Case (1529): The Eastern Depot's overreach into judicial matters demonstrated the infiltration of the secret police into the capital's administration. * Zhu Di's Move of the Capital (1421): The political center was gradually shifted north under the designation "Temporary Imperial Seat," ultimately establishing Beijing's foundational urban layout.
V. Changes in the Late Ming Period
During the Chongzhen reign, Shuntian Prefecture faced dual pressures: the rebel forces of Li Zicheng advanced towards the capital region, while the Qing armies repeatedly breached the Great Wall defenses. Prefect Zhou Qi implemented a "public works for relief" policy to repair the city walls, but these measures failed due to the collapsed state finances. When Li Zicheng captured Beijing in 1644, the administrative structure of Shuntian Prefecture became nominal, marking the end of Ming rule.
Summary
As the political heart of the Ming Empire, the evolution of Shuntian Prefecture reflects the trajectory of the dynasty's rise and fall. From the brilliance of the Yongle emperor's move to the crises of the Chongzhen era, it served both as the hub of the canal-driven economy and a frontline for Sino-Western cultural exchange. Its institutional designs—such as the "dual administration" and "military defense" systems—profoundly influenced the spatial organization and social structure of the Ming and Qing capital.