Emperor Yongle moved the capital from Nanjing to Beijing in 1403 for several reasons. One of the main reasons was to establish a more centralized rule in the empire and to consolidate his power. Beijing was geographically closer to the Mongol threats in the north, so it allowed for better defense and control over the northern territories. Additionally, Beijing was strategically located along important trade routes and was seen as a more suitable location for communication and interaction with other Eurasian civilizations. This move also allowed Yongle to better supervise the construction of the Forbidden City, which would serve as the imperial palace complex and the political center of the empire.
