In contrast with earlier dynasties, the rulers of the Ming used a single reign title for their entire reign, with the exception of Ying Zong, who was restored. The dynastic title (miao hao, temple name) was assigned posthumously. The personal names of the emperors were never used; in fact, writing or speaking it was forbidden.
| Reign Dates |
Reign Title, nien hao |
Dynastic Title, miao hao |
Relation to predecessor |
Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1368–1398 | 洪武 Hongwu Hong He [Hung Ho] (Chu Yüan-chang) |
Tai Zu | ||
| 1399–1402 | 建文 Jianwen |
Hui Di | grandson | |
| 1403–1424 | 永樂 Yongli |
Cheng Zu | son of Tai Zu | |
| 1425 | 洪熙 Hongxi |
Ren Zong | son | |
| 1426–1435 | 宣德 Xuande |
Xuan Zong | son | |
| 1436–1449 | 正統 Zhengtong |
Ying Zong | son | Captured in battle, 1449. |
| 1450–1457 | 景泰 Jingtai |
Jing Di | brother | Deposed. Died 1457. |
| 1457–1464 | 天順 Tianshun |
Ying Zong | restoration | |
| 1465–1487 | 成化 Chenghua |
Xian Zong | son | |
| 1488–1505 | 弘治 Hongzhi |
Xiao Zong | son | |
| 1506–1521 | 正德 Zhengde |
Wun Tsung | son | |
| 1522–1567 | 嘉靖 Jiajing |
Shěh Tsung | grandson of Xian Zong |
|
| 1567–1572 | 隆慶 Longqing |
Mu Zong | son | |
| 1573–1620 | 萬歷 Wanli |
Shêh Tsung | son | |
| 1620 | 泰昌 Tai Zhang |
Guang Zong | son | |
| 1621–1627 | 天啟 Tianqi |
Xi Zong | son | |
| 1628–1644 | 崇禎 Chongzhen |
Zhuang-lie Di | brother |
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Last revised: 8 April 2004.