Zhang Juzheng (1525-1582)，Statesman and reformer of Ming Dynasty

Zhang Juzheng, with the courtesy name of Zhishudaand the art name ofTaiyue, was born in Jingzhou City, astatesmanand reformer of Ming Dynasty. He became a successful candidate in the highestroyal examination in 1547, and later was promoted from the royal editor to aroyal family tutor. He was appointed the prime minister when Shenzhong of MingDynasty succeeded to the throne, and he administrated the state affairs for tenyears with the following reforms: to measure the fields, crack down onthebureaucratic corruption, reform tax, choose capable generals to guard theborders, formulate official assessment standards, specify official duties,enforce laws of awards and punishment, enhance the government efficiency, andintegrate the tax system, which helped improve the nation's finance. He died ofhard work, at the age of 58, and he was granted a posthumous name of Wenzhong(loyal intellectual), and a title of Zhuguo (nation's pillar).