Episode 2.8 – Growing Tensions

(Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons. Photo of a Tibetan Empire era Buddha statue. The Princess Jincheng brought with her a group of Buddhist monks, representing the return to Buddhism after a fifty year long hiatus since the days of Songtsen Gampo)

The forty year long Regency of Gar is over. The Emperor Dusong, long chafing under the thumb of his Gar handlers, broke free in 698. But he had won himself just six years of independent rule over the Tibetans.

How would Dusong spend his six years? And what would become of the Empire when he died, leaving behind two underage sons? 

Amidst the backdrop of succession crisis and renewed regency, TIbet’s erstwhile enemy to the east prepared for war. The Tang were riding high on the wave of victory that swept them over the Tarim Basin. And despite ongoing negotiations over a marriage alliance, they continued their plans unabated.

And to the west, a new player emerged. Followers of a new faith, born deep in the deserts of Arabia, marched into the heart of Central Asia. The Arab Caliphate had arrived.

The medieval period of great power politics was at hand in Asia. And Tibet was at its center.

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