Bōzhōu

Bozhou occupies the mountain country around Zunyi, between Sichuan and the Guizhou plateau. For centuries it was ruled by the hereditary Yang family, whose authority endured through successive dynasties. Their stronghold at Hailongtun crowned a steep mountain north of the town, with walls and gates guarding the approaches to its summit.

In the late sixteenth century disputes between the chief Yang Yinglong and neighbouring families drew the attention of the Ming court. Yang strengthened Hailongtun, raising walls and fortifications behind a series of gates. In 1600 imperial armies advanced into Bozhou and surrounded the fortress. After a long assault its defences fell, and Yang killed himself. The defeat ended centuries of Yang rule; the Ming replaced the hereditary domain with prefectures governed by appointed officials.