Daming: Dad, you are really not good at governing the country

Chapter 408: Only by implementing the reform of the labor law can the artisan household system have a way out
In the majestic and magnificent imperial palace, the red walls and yellow tiles sparkled in the sunlight, as if telling the glory and majesty of the Ming Dynasty.

Within the palace walls, there are deep courtyards, winding corridors, and carved beams and painted buildings, all displaying the royal luxury and refinement.

The palace is bustling again today.

The eunuchs and palace maids were busy moving around, but everything was in order and they did not dare to slack off for the slightest.

Zhu Yuanzhang was discussing many matters with his son Zhu Gang in a side hall.

The furnishings in the hall are simple and solemn, and the golden nanmu tables and chairs exude a faint fragrance.

The famous calligraphy and paintings hanging on the walls add a touch of cultural heritage to this hall.

Queen Ma, who was sitting beside him, was like a touch of gentle brightness in the palace.

She was wearing an elegant palace dress, the delicate embroidery on the fabric was faintly visible in the light and shadow, like a flower quietly blooming in spring.

Just sitting there gives people a feeling of being bathed in spring breeze.

At this time, the sunlight shines through the carved window lattices onto the ground, forming patches of mottled light and shadows, like a natural painting.

The breeze blew gently, lifting a corner of the window screen and bringing the fragrance of the flowers blooming in the courtyard.

The fragrance mixed with the unique sandalwood scent of the palace permeated the air, making people feel relaxed and happy.

Empress Ma listened quietly to the conversation between Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Gang. At this time, she had a smile on her face and spoke softly, but with a firmness in her voice.

"Chongba, this child, Tan'er, is really capable.

Over the years, he has worried a lot about the country and people of our Ming Dynasty.

Look at him. He can not only make the people under his rule live a stable and good life, but also always think about contributing his strength to the court. He is really a rare good boy. "

Upon hearing this, Zhu Gang hurriedly bowed respectfully, his movements were so standard that it seemed as if they had been honed a thousand times.

He said with great respect, "Thank you, Father, for your praise, and thank you, Mother, for your kind words.

I, your son, will do my best to serve the Ming Dynasty, even if it means death.

But I am really worried in my heart. There are so many complicated and trivial affairs in this capital.

I am afraid that if I handle it improperly, it will cause a lot of trouble. I hope that Father and Mother can understand it clearly. "

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly, with a hint of relief in his eyes.

"Well, it's great that you have this thought.

But you must remember, whether you are in the capital or returning to your fiefdom.

You must always be clear about your identity, and always consider the Ming Dynasty for its sake. You must not slack off in the slightest."

Zhu Gang bowed again and responded in a loud voice: "I will remember your father's teachings and will never forget them!"

At this moment, the atmosphere in the palace seemed particularly peaceful. The sunlight shone through the carved window lattices onto the ground, forming patches of mottled light and shadows.

However, beneath this seemingly calm and peaceful appearance, aren't there undercurrents surging?
Zhu Gang knew very well that as a member of the royal family, every step he took was like walking on the edge of a knife.

He had to walk extremely carefully, because if he was not careful he would be doomed.

A few days later, Zhu Gang was invited to the East Palace.

Although the scale of the East Palace is not as grand as the main hall of the Imperial Palace, it is also magnificent with carved beams and painted rafters.

As soon as Zhu Gang entered the East Palace, he saw Zhu Biao sitting at the desk, looking through a pile of documents with a focused expression.

At this time, the sunlight slanted in from the window, shining on Zhu Biao's body, giving him a layer of golden glow.

It seemed to add a bit of sacred temperament to the future crown prince of the Ming Dynasty.

Zhu Gang hurried forward and said seriously, "Brother, in Shanxi's current social and economic system, the craftsman household system and the labor service law are two crucial systems.

They have a profound impact on all classes and the overall development of Shanxi." Zhu Biao raised his head slightly and looked at Zhu Gang with gentle eyes.

He smiled and said, “Third brother, what you said is quite right.

However, although I know a little about the specifics of the artisan household system and the employment law, I would also like to hear your views which have been tested by many practical experiences.

Third brother, can you tell me more specifically? "

Zhu Gang coughed lightly, cleared his throat, and then said in an orderly manner: "Brother, let me start with the craftsman household system.

This artisan household system is a household registration system that has existed since the founding of the Ming Dynasty.

In other words, those craftsmen engaged in handicrafts are divided into artisan households, which are further divided into shift craftsmen and resident craftsmen.

Shift craftsmen had to take turns to serve in the capital or designated places regularly according to the prescribed time.

I go there once every few years, and there are clear regulations on how long I have to serve each time.

Moreover, while serving in the army, they had to do various manual work according to the requirements of the government.

For example, forging weapons, making palace supplies, etc. "

As he spoke, Zhu Gang unconsciously used his hands to imitate the movements of forging weapons. He looked very serious, as if he was the shift craftsman on duty at this moment.

Seeing this, Zhu Biao couldn't help but nod slightly with a smile in his eyes.

Seeing this, Zhu Gang continued, "Let's talk about this resident carpenter, brother.

Resident craftsmen are those who work for government offices in the capital and other places for a long time, and their jobs are relatively stable.

They are responsible for those delicate crafts that require long-term work, such as weaving court costumes, making gold and silver utensils, etc.

But think about it, brother, although these craftsmen have superb skills, they are restricted by their household registration.

These craftsmen are simply unable to change their careers!

In addition, the remuneration for military service is pitifully low, and sometimes even free of charge.

This has resulted in their family's economic situation being very poor, and their children's education and all aspects of life have been greatly affected.

But then again, their skills are an important support for the development of the Ming Dynasty's handicraft industry.

Look at how many exquisite palace items and indestructible military equipment are made possible by the craftsmanship of these craftsmen."

When Zhu Gang said this, he couldn't help but sigh heavily.

A trace of sympathy appeared on his face, and he shook his head and said, "Alas, it's really not easy for these craftsmen!"

Zhu Biao frowned and asked with concern in his eyes: "What about the employment law you mentioned? What is the situation here?"

Zhu Gang said with a sharp gaze: "Brother, this employment law is a labor law reform implemented during the process of economic development.

Before this, common people had to perform free military service according to their household status and number of people. Just imagine how heavy a burden this was, and it also seriously affected people's lives.

But things were different after the implementation of the labor service law. The government could pay people to do the work.

People can decide for themselves whether to accept employment, and if they do, they will be paid, which will improve their lives.”

Zhu Gang spoke while gesturing with his fingers, looking excited.

It was as if he was telling about something great, and Zhu Biao couldn't help but get excited when he saw it.

Seeing this, Zhu Biao looked thoughtful, touched his chin and said, "Well, this sounds like a good idea.

However, if the employment law is to be implemented, there will probably be many problems, right? "

(End of this chapter)