How did Ming forces expand into Sichuan and Yunnan during the Hongwu emperor’s reign?

During the reign of the Hongwu emperor, Ming forces expanded into the southwest through targeted military campaigns to consolidate control over the region.12

• Sichuan: In 1371, Ming armies successfully destroyed the rebel Xia regime, bringing the province under imperial authority.2
• Yunnan: Following the pacification of the northwest, Ming forces moved to subdue the southwest. In 1381–1382, they eliminated major Mongol and indigenous resistance in the region.12

Once these areas were brought under Ming control, the dynasty sought to tighten its administration. In Yunnan, the government utilized military units to encourage the migration of Han Chinese from the Yangtze River valley to the province. Furthermore, the region was governed through a system of hereditary tusi, which allowed local leaders to serve as agents of the Chinese magistrates, establishing a policy of indirect rule. By 1382, the unification of these territories was largely completed, contributing to the Ming dynasty's control over modern China proper.312