Zhu Biao

Zhu Biao (1355–1392) was the eldest son of the Hongwu Emperor and the founding crown prince of the Ming dynasty. Born to Zhu Yuanzhang and Lady Ma, he became heir in 1364 and crown prince at the Ming proclamation in 1368.

Educated in Confucian statecraft by Song Lian, he took part in daily government from 1377 and was known for his humanity.

Sent to Shaanxi in 1391 to assess a capital move to Xi'an, he presented a map and a memorial on his return. He fell ill and died in May 1392. His son Zhu Yunwen later reigned as the Jianwen Emperor.