1. Northern Song (960-1127):
- The Northern Song dynasty began in 960 when Emperor Taizu of the Song dynasty established the capital in Bianliang (modern Kaifeng).
- This period was marked by economic prosperity, cultural achievements, and advancements in science and technology.
- However, the Northern Song dynasty faced significant military challenges from various nomadic tribes, including the Khitans of the Liao dynasty and the Tanguts of the Western Xia kingdom.
2. Southern Song (1127-1279):
- The Southern Song dynasty was established after the Jin dynasty, a Jurchen-led state, invaded and captured the Northern Song capital, Bianliang, in 1127.
- The Song court retreated south and established a new capital in Lin'an (modern Hangzhou).
- The Southern Song dynasty was characterized by a shift in focus towards economic development and cultural achievements, as the military situation was less pressing compared to the Northern Song.
- The Southern Song court maintained a policy of appeasement and tribute payments to the Jin and Mongol empires to preserve its territory.
- Despite its cultural achievements and economic resilience, the Southern Song dynasty eventually fell to the Mongol invasion in 1279, marking the end of the Song dynasty.
In summary, the division of the Song dynasty into Northern and Southern Song was a result of the loss of control over northern territories and the subsequent relocation of the imperial court to Lin'an. While the Northern Song was known for its economic prosperity and cultural achievements, the Southern Song dynasty experienced a shift in focus towards economic resilience and cultural pursuits, ultimately leading to the dynasty's fall to the Mongol invasion.