Editing 1126 (section)

==== Asia ====
* Spring &ndash; In [[China]], scholars and farmers demonstrate around the capital city of [[Kaifeng]], for the restoration of a trusted military official, [[Li Gang (Song dynasty)|Li Gang]] (李綱). Small conflicts erupt between the protestors and the government.
* [[January 18]] &ndash; Emperor [[Emperor Huizong of Song|Hui Zong]] of the [[Song dynasty|Song Dynasty]] abdicates in favour of his eldest son, [[Emperor Qinzong of Song|Qin Zong]] after a 24-year reign. Hui Zong assumes the honorary title of ''[[Taishang Huang]]'' (or "Retired Emperor").
* [[Jin–Song Wars|Jin–Song War]]: Jurchen forces reach the [[Yellow River]] Valley, two days after [[Chinese New Year|New Year]]. Remnants of the court flee south, including much of the populace, and communities such as the [[Kaifeng Jews]].<ref>Mote, Frederick W. (1999). ''Imperial China: 900–1800'', p. 196. Harvard University Press. {{ISBN|978-0-674-01212-7}}.</ref>
* [[January 31]] &ndash; Jurchen forces lay siege to Kaifeng. Qin Zong negotiates the terms of surrender, agreeing an annual [[indemnity]]. He orders Song forces to defend the prefectures of the Northern Song.