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unify (Wang Geon's political power and the meaning of Goryeo's founding)

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  Leadership in a Time of Fragmentation In the 10th century, Silla’s power had weakened, and local warlords were rising in a fractured political landscape. Amid the chaos, one man brought stability to the Korean Peninsula. That man was Wang Geon, the founding king of Goryeo . Instead of relying solely on force, Wang Geon unified the Later Three Kingdoms through reconciliation, strategic marriages, and public support . How Did Wang Geon Achieve Unification? The Core of Wang Geon's Politics – Flexibility and Unit Wang Geon encouraged Buddhism , moderation in rule , and respect for both aristocracy and commoners . What Was Happening Globally in the 10th Century? The era when Goryeo emerged was one of dynastic transitions and political instability across many regions. Amid global unrest, Goryeo stood out as a relatively stable and successfully unified kingdom . Lessons In Times of Division, Connection Is Stronger than Force Educational Message

A Rising Power in Northeast Asia Dreaming of a Eurasian Empire (Goguryeo's Expansion in the Context of Global History)

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  The Beginning and Early Expansion of Goguryeo Goguryeo was founded in 37 BCE by Jumong in Jolbon (modern-day Jian, China). Initially a small tribal state, it gradually grew by pushing back the Four Han Commanderies and absorbing neighboring tribes such as Buyeo, Okjeo, and Dongye by the 2nd century, becoming a dominant power in northern Korea and Manchuria. [World Context] Early–Mid 4th Century During this period, East Asia entered the age of northern tribes , and Goguryeo led that regional transformation. The Great Conquests of King Gwanggaeto (r. 391–413) King Gwanggaeto the Great expanded Goguryeo’s territory more than any other ruler in its history. Through a combination of cavalry-based military power , multi-ethnic integration , and proactive diplomacy , he laid the foundation for Goguryeo’s imperial era. Major Conquests The Gwanggaeto Stele serves as ancient Northeast Asia’s most powerful propaganda of conquest and legitimacy. King Jangsu’s Southern Expan...