The Jin dynasty, which ruled large portions of northern China, faced mounting challenges during the reign of Emperor Wanyan Liang. The military defeat at the Battle of Caishi was a critical blow to the Jin, intensifying discontent among the military ranks. By December 1161, disillusioned officers, frustrated with the emperor’s tactics and decision-making, began to plot his demise. They believed that by eliminating Wanyan Liang, they could stabilize the dynasty and improve military strategy moving forward.

On the fateful day, the conspirators executed their plot at the emperor’s camp, where he was unprepared for such treachery from those he led. The assassination not only marked a pivotal moment within the Jin dynasty but also reflected the growing rift between civil authority and military power during this period. As information about the assassination spread, it created a power vacuum and uncertainty regarding leadership, further destabilizing the already weakened empire.

This moment was critical in encouraging further upheaval within the Jin dynasty, as it led to an intense struggle between various factions for control, ultimately impacting the dynasty's cohesion and military effectiveness in subsequent years. The power struggle following Wanyan Liang’s death would influence the political landscape of northern China, setting the stage for future conflicts.