Who was Heshen and how did he become powerful under Qianlong?

Heshen (1750–1799) was a prominent and corrupt Chinese courtier who wielded immense influence during the later years of the Qianlong emperor’s reign.

He rose to power rapidly due to his personal relationship with the emperor. Initially an imperial bodyguard at age 25, Heshen’s handsome appearance, wit, and affable personality deeply impressed the 65-year-old Qianlong. Within a single year, he ascended to the highest ministerial positions, gaining control over government personnel recruitment and the disbursement of state revenue. His influence was further solidified through a marriage alliance, as his son wed the emperor’s favorite daughter.1

Heshen’s tenure was marked by severe corruption. During the White Lotus Society rebellion, he intentionally prolonged military campaigns to embezzle war funds, which devastated the populace and weakened the Qing dynasty. Following Qianlong's death in 1799, the Jiaqing emperor arrested Heshen, who was subsequently forced to commit suicide, leading to the confiscation of his vast, illicitly acquired wealth.1