The An Lushan Rebellion

In the 8th century, the Tang dynasty governs one of the most powerful and cosmopolitan states in the world. Yet in 755, General An Lushan triggers a rebellion that plunges China into a catastrophic war. The conflict causes a demographic and political collapse of a magnitude rarely equaled in pre-industrial history.

Under the Tang, China experiences a period of economic prosperity, territorial expansion, and intense cultural activity. The capital Chang'an becomes one of the largest cities in the world and a major center of Eurasian exchanges.

An Lushan, a general of partially Sogdian and Turkish origin, progressively accumulates considerable military power on the northern borders of the Empire. In 755, he turns against imperial power and launches a vast rebellion. Rebel armies advance rapidly and seize several large Chinese cities. The Tang emperor must flee the capital while the imperial court becomes profoundly disorganized.

The conflict lasts several years and involves not only massive military confrontations but also famines, population displacements, and administrative collapse in numerous regions. Demographic estimates remain debated but human losses appear immense.

Even after the final crushing of the revolt, the Tang dynasty never fully recovers its previous power. The event durably transforms Chinese political equilibrium and profoundly weakens central imperial authority.