Chapter 471
Though an institution for researching and teaching technology was being established by Emperor Xuande’s order, the process wasn’t smooth.
Both Ming and Joseon looked down on craftsmen equally.
Therefore, when it was suggested to place the institution for researching technology and craftsmen under the Imperial Academy, all officials of the Imperial Academy—from the Director down to the lowest-ranked lecturers—staked their lives in opposition.
Eventually, this institution named the “Training Institute” was decided to be placed under the Ministry of Works.
Though they weathered that commotion, the obstacles didn’t end there.
Merchant groups owning famous craftsmen refused to release them.
“If we give them up, we’ll starve to death!”
The merchant groups fiercely resisted, but this time Xuande wouldn’t bend.
“Would you rather die by my hand or starve to death? If you release the craftsmen, I’ll not only compensate you but definitely return them after ten years. But if you refuse, I’ll kill you all!”