The Hongxi Emperor orders that the capital be moved back to Nanjing from Beijing (which had been made the capital by the Yongle Emperor in 1421).

However, he dies, probably of a heart attack, a month later in May 1425.

His son had been declared heir apparent and becomes the Xuande Emperor at age twenty-six.

Although the Hongxi Emperor had had a short reign, he is credited with reforms that made lasting improvements, and his liberal policies are continued by his son.