Prince Chun (created 1723)

Prince Chun (醇親王) was a princely title of the first rank, used during the Qing dynasty of China. It was created in 1723 by the Yongzheng Emperor for his seventh son, Hongzhou. "Chun," meaning "pure" or "refined," was chosen as the distinguishing character for the title.

The title was hereditary, passing down through Hongzhou's line. However, like other Qing dynasty princely titles, it was not always inherited by the original holder's direct heir in the same rank. The rank of the title could be lowered by one level with each succession unless imperial favor dictated otherwise.

Notably, the title of Prince Chun became prominent in the late Qing dynasty with Yixuan, the seventh son of the Daoguang Emperor, who became Prince Chun after the death of his half-brother, the Xianfeng Emperor, and served as regent for his son, the Tongzhi Emperor. Later, Yixuan's son, Zaifeng, became Prince Chun after the Guangxu Emperor's death and served as regent for his son, Puyi, the Xuantong Emperor, the last Emperor of China. These later Princes Chun held significant power and influence within the Qing government during periods of imperial minority or weakness.

The princes holding this title, particularly Yixuan and Zaifeng, played important roles in the political landscape of the late Qing dynasty, influencing decisions on reform, foreign policy, and the eventual collapse of the Qing dynasty.