Why did the Juchen tribes rebel against the Khitan Liao empire?
The Juchen tribes, who were originally vassals of the Khitan Liao dynasty, rebelled due to long-standing dissatisfaction with their subordinate status and the declining administrative and military efficiency of the Liao empire.123
Tensions escalated as the Liao empire weakened in the late 11th century, leading to frequent rebellions among its non-Khitan subjects. A pivotal moment occurred in 1112 when the last Liao emperor visited the Juchen homeland and demanded that the tribal chiefs dance for him; the Juchen leader, Aguda, refused to comply. This act of defiance signaled the end of their allegiance.21
Aguda formally proclaimed the establishment of the Jin dynasty in 1115 and, supported by an alliance with the Chinese Song dynasty, successfully overthrew the Liao empire by 1125.4123