Celadon censer of the Western Jin Dynasty

The Western Jin Dynasty lasted from 265 to 316. In 265, Sima Yan dethroned the Wei Emperor and established the Jin Dynasty, historically known as the Western Jin. Although the Western Jin survived for mere 52 years, it ended the split Three Kingdoms Period and unified China, providing an opportunity for social and economic development with temporary stability.

The Western Jin continued to adopt the system of nine ranks of officials selected by appointed government officials. With countless drawbacks, the system became the tool of the gentry's monopoly. The emperor also declared economic privileges of officials and lords as lawful.

Celadon basin

During the short reign, the Western Jin underwent 16 years of wars among eight princes known as the Disturbance of the Eight Princes, which reflected the fierce conflicts that existed within the ruling class.

The Western Jin Dynasty witnessed fast economic and cultural development. This period also turned out many classics, such as the Mai Jing (Pulse Classic) by the prestigious doctor Wang Shuhe; the Yu Gong Map by geographer Pei Xiu; and San Guo Zhi (Records of the Three Kingdoms) by Chen Shou. Apart from the publishing of literary classics, the Xuan Xue School and Xian Xue School, which became popular during the Three Kingdoms Period, also continued to spread.

In 311, the Hun army, led by Liu Cong, occupied Luo Yang, the Western Jin capital, and took Emperor Huaidi prisoner. The Western Jin army supported Emperor Mindi in assuming the throne in Chang'an. Five years later, in 316, the Hun army, now led by Liu Yao, launched an attack on Chang'an. Emperor Mindi gave up the city, which prompted the end of the Western Jin Dynasty.