Tunglin

an opposition group in China in the late 16th century and first half of the 17th century that included scholars, officials, and representatives of several groups of urban dwellers. It was named after the academy in the city of Wuhsi. Headed by a former court official, Ku Hsien-ch’eng, the Tunglin movement campaigned for the elimination of the influence of court eunuchs on state affairs and for the protection and support of crafts and trade. They supported moderate political, economic, and military reforms. Feudal reactionaries, after a long struggle, crushed the Tunglin movement in 1620.