Abstract
After Nurhaci [1559-1626], Emperor T'ai-tsu of the Ch'ing, attacked Nikan Wailan [a chieftain of the Suksuhu tribe] in the eleventh year [1583] of the Wan-li era of the Ming dynasty with the thirteen suits of armor left by his father and grandfather, the ensuing military victories resulted in more conquests and rapid expansion of the population. At first [the Manchus] observed the old custom "on campaigns or in hunts, regardless of numbers, all [the participants] followed their own clan hamlet or stockade," to make formations and teach warfare. Later, because of "the ever-increasing population and the multitude of the people who surrendered from various tribes," the internal elements became more and more complex; thus, household registration was established, the companies [niru] were organized, and the banner system was instituted, expanding from four to eight banners.
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