The Unprecedented Royal Examination

In the spring of ancient Qin, an extraordinary event unfolded in the capital of Xianyang—a public examination to determine the crown prince. Unlike the traditional primogeniture system that had dominated the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, this open assessment of princes was a radical departure from convention. The event, held on the third day of the fourth lunar month, tested both scholarly knowledge and martial prowess, drawing thousands of spectators, including nobles, envoys from rival states, and commoners.

The examination was divided into two parts: a literary test and a martial trial. The literary segment, overseen by Chancellor Cai Ze, assessed the princes’ understanding of Qin’s governance, military honors, and legal codes. The martial segment, conducted by General Meng Ao, evaluated their combat skills and strategic thinking. The stakes were high—the future ruler of Qin would emerge from this rigorous process.

The Scholarly Prodigy: Prince Ying Zheng’s Triumph

The literary examination revealed an astonishing prodigy—Prince Ying Zheng, a twelve-year-old who had spent his early years in the rival state of Zhao. His performance was nothing short of remarkable. When asked about Qin’s administrative divisions, land area, and population, he recited precise figures, including the names of all 313 counties. His knowledge of military honors and legal codes was equally flawless, and he even quoted extensively from The Book of Lord Shang, a foundational text of Qin’s legalist philosophy.

What stunned the audience most was not just his memory but his analytical depth. When discussing Qin’s military defeats, he argued that failures stemmed from overconfidence after victories—a mature insight that left even seasoned ministers in awe. His ability to contextualize historical battles, such as the Battle of Changping, demonstrated a strategic mind far beyond his years.

The Martial Trial: A Test of Grit and Skill

The martial examination was no less dramatic. The princes competed in archery and hand-to-hand combat, with Prince Ying Zheng displaying both courage and resilience. Despite suffering injuries during the horseback archery segment, he refused to withdraw, earning the crowd’s admiration. In the wrestling match, he fought fiercely against a masked soldier, enduring a brutal fall that left him spitting blood. Yet, he rose again, determined to continue—a display of tenacity that cemented his reputation as a warrior.

Cultural and Political Implications

The examination was more than a selection process; it was a statement about Qin’s values. By prioritizing merit over birthright, the state reinforced its commitment to legalist principles—efficiency, discipline, and pragmatism. The public nature of the event also served as propaganda, showcasing Qin’s transparency and military might to both its citizens and rival states.

For the people of Qin, Prince Ying Zheng’s performance was electrifying. His blend of intellect, bravery, and humility resonated deeply, dispelling earlier doubts about his loyalty (having once used the surname “Zhao”). His reinstatement as “Ying Zheng” after a formal ancestral ceremony further solidified his legitimacy.

Legacy: The Making of a Legend

The examination marked the beginning of Prince Ying Zheng’s ascent to power. His subsequent appointment as crown prince, with the renowned statesman Lü Buwei as his tutor, set the stage for his eventual unification of China as Qin Shi Huang. The event also foreshadowed his future leadership style—rigorous, innovative, and unyielding.

Historically, the examination underscored Qin’s unique approach to governance: a fusion of legalist discipline and meritocratic ideals. While later dynasties would criticize Qin’s harsh methods, none could deny the effectiveness of its system in producing formidable leaders.

Conclusion

The grand examination of 246 BCE was a turning point in Chinese history. It revealed not just the brilliance of a young prince but the mechanisms that made Qin the dominant power of its era. Prince Ying Zheng’s journey—from a scrutinized youth to an emperor—remains a testament to the transformative power of meritocracy and resilience. His story, beginning with this very examination, would reshape the ancient world.