What contributions did Fang Xuanling make to the Tang Dynasty? Why was he highly valued by Li Shimin?

During the time of great unrest at the end of the Sui Dynasty, Li Yuan launched a military coup. Fang Xuanling chose to join Li Shimin's army and served as the recorder of the Qin Palace, advising Li Shimin on strategy and handling paperwork. His thinking was agile, and whenever military reports needed to be written during the march, he could complete them in the short time the horse stopped.

As Li Shimin pacified the region, others searched for antiquities and treasures, but Fang Xuanling focused on discovering talents for Li Shimin. For example, he recommended Du Ruhui, Zhang Liang, Xue Shou, Li Daliang, and others. These individuals later became important officials in the court and made significant contributions.

Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui were historically known as "Fang's Strategy and Du's Decision" because Fang Xuanling excelled at planning, while Du Ruhui was skilled in making decisions. Together, they complemented each other and formed an excellent partnership. In 626 AD, Fang Xuanling, Changsun Wuji, and Du Ruhui were the main planners of the Xuanwu Gate Coup, helping Li Shimin seize the throne.

Li Shimin praised Fang Xuanling for his "strategic planning and contributions to stabilizing the country" and awarded him the rank of Duke of Guo. After Li Shimin's accession to the throne, Fang Xuanling held important positions such as the Secretary of the Central Bureau, the Left Grand Chamberlain, and the Steward. He became a key participant in the central decision-making of the court.

Fang Xuanling was very focused on the governance of officials, eliminating redundant positions, improving efficiency, and saving financial expenditure. He also emphasized institutional construction, drawing on historical experience to formulate a series of sound regulations and policies. He abolished the harsh laws of the Sui Dynasty and replaced them with a lenient and peaceful approach to handling administrative and public affairs.

He worked diligently, often day and night, and valued talents without distinction. He was highly regarded as a virtuous prime minister of his generation.

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