8 - A Confucian Empire: Song Dynasty China

Summary

In 960, when the army of Zhao Kuangyin (趙匡胤), a military commander, was camped by the Chen Bridge, a dozen miles from the capital, the rumor spread among his soldiers that a portent had occurred. A prophet had seen two suns in the sky. It was believed to be a sign that the mandate of Tian (天) had changed. Tian had conferred the empire on their commander. Zhao was awakened from his sleep a few days later by soldiers who demanded that he accept the title of Son of Heaven (天子). He was asked three times and accepted only after his officers swore unconditional obedience. That, at least, is the story.