Emperor Bing of Song

Who was Emperor Bing of Song?

Emperor Bing of Song was the last emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty of China. He was also known as Lord Perpetual-Nation.

Born Zhào Bǐng to Emperor Duzong of Song, he was the younger brother of his predecessor, Emperor Duanzong of Song. His mother was Consort Yu, who held the rank of Xiurong. He became Prince Xin in 1274 CE then two years later received the titles of Prince Guang and Prince Wei. He was enthroned at Meiyu, Gangzhou, on 10 May 1278 and his only era named Xiángxīng.

According to the History of Song compiled under the Mongol Prime Minister Toktoghan, Emperor Bing is reported to have died at the Battle of Yamen on 19 March 1279. An official, Lu Xiufu who realized that all was lost, carried him and jumped into the sea in an act of defiance to the Mongol invaders near Mount Ya at the mouth of the West River in Guangdong.

His tomb is in Shekou, Shenzhen.