In order to overcome the crisis, Pangeng, the twentieth emperor, moved the capital to Yin (Xiaotun Village in Anyang City, Henan Province today). He then practiced King Tang's policies, and carried out a series of reforms. He got rid of the vice of extravagance, and took care of the lives of the common people. All these actions helped to stabilize the situation. After a short while, the society, politics, economy and culture started to recover and develop. This event is called “Pangeng moved the capital to Yin” historically. Emperor Wuding, the 22nd king of the Shang Dynasty grew up in the countryside. He thus knew the hardships and sufferings of the common people. After ascending to the throne, he appointed people on their merits, was cautious and attentive with state affairs, and pacified the invasions of the nomadic peoples. By doing so, he enlarged the territory and consolidated his rein. During Wuding's rule, the Shang Dynasty reached its peak. At that time, its territory extended to Liaoning Province in the north, covered Hubei Province in the south, got to Shaanxi Province in the west, and was on the sea in the east. |