法國(guo)歷史學(xue)家(jia)勒內·格魯塞的《草(cao)原帝(di)(di)國(guo)》:“明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)偉大的永(yong)樂(le)皇帝(di)(di)所貫徹的政策,即為了打倒忽必烈家(jia)族而扶持年(nian)(nian)輕的發展中(zhong)的衛拉特勢(shi)力,是(shi)在(zai)(zai)他死后(hou)才見效的。”但(dan)明(ming)(ming)宣(xuan)宗放棄戰略機遇,“自仁宗不(bu)(bu)勤遠略,宣(xuan)宗承之(zhi)。”導致宣(xuan)德五(wu)年(nian)(nian)瓦剌首(shou)領脫歡(huan)密遣麥克零部落迎脫脫不(bu)(bu)花,宣(xuan)德八年(nian)(nian)脫脫不(bu)(bu)花被脫歡(huan)立為大汗(han)。脫歡(huan)以脫脫不(bu)(bu)花汗(han)的名義統(tong)一安(an)樂(le)王、賢(xian)義王及和寧王所部,并聯姻忠順王,逐漸(jian)侵蝕明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)邊界,明(ming)(ming)英宗君臣志在(zai)(zai)重新振興。朱祁鎮在(zai)(zai)正(zheng)統(tong)三年(nian)(nian)、正(zheng)統(tong)六(liu)年(nian)(nian)、正(zheng)統(tong)九年(nian)(nian)、正(zheng)統(tong)十(shi)(shi)四年(nian)(nian)所發動(dong)的四次(ci)大規模北(bei)伐。在(zai)(zai)第四次(ci)北(bei)伐中(zhong)明(ming)(ming)英宗因情報系統(tong)失(shi)靈(ling)戰敗(bai)被俘。明(ming)(ming)英宗正(zheng)統(tong)四年(nian)(nian)(1439年(nian)(nian))脫歡(huan)死,其子也(ye)先繼(ji)位后(hou),不(bu)(bu)僅漠南諸部全被征(zheng)服,且(qie)東脅(xie)朝(chao)(chao)鮮,西(xi)略哈密,草(cao)原大半,盡為其所制(zhi)。也(ye)先每年(nian)(nian)冬(dong)遣人貢(gong)馬于明(ming)(ming)。起初(chu)所遣使(shi)者不(bu)(bu)過五(wu)十(shi)(shi)人,后(hou)貪朝(chao)(chao)廷(ting)厚(hou)賞,歲增至(zhi)二(er)千(qian)余人,并屢(lv)屢(lv)索要貴重難得之(zhi)物。稍不(bu)(bu)遂(sui),即制(zhi)造事(shi)端,明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)所賜財物,不(bu)(bu)得不(bu)(bu)歲有所增。
仁(ren)宣(xuan)(xuan)朝(chao)(chao)的(de)(de)治邊(bian)(bian)策(ce)略既(ji)班固所(suo)(suo)批評的(de)(de)治邊(bian)(bian)觀念,“縉(jin)紳之(zhi)(zhi)儒守(shou)和親(qin),介胄之(zhi)(zhi)士言征(zheng)供。征(zheng)伐(fa)則(ze)民力(li)竭,和親(qin)則(ze)國(guo)威(wei)喪(sang),于(yu)(yu)(yu)是有(you)“守(shou)四(si)夷(yi)羈縻(mi)(mi)不(bu)絕,地(di)(di)不(bu)可耕,民不(bu)可臣(chen)”乾隆(long)認(ren)為(wei)此言興(xing)臭然!羈縻(mi)(mi)之(zhi)(zhi)道,清(qing)朝(chao)(chao)強(qiang)調恩(en)威(wei)并(bing)施,撫剿并(bing)重(zhong),宣(xuan)(xuan)德五年(nian)前(qian),蒙古各部(bu)陸續(xu)南下緊貼明(ming)堡居住,邊(bian)(bian)將(jiang)奏報力(li)主嚴(yan)剿,遠離(li)邊(bian)(bian)地(di)(di)的(de)(de)明(ming)宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)認(ren)為(wei)本(ben)無(wu)漠北問題,純屬有(you)心者(zhe)煽(shan)動與(yu)(yu)邊(bian)(bian)臣(chen)挑(tiao)釁。“爾(er)但宜慎邊(bian)(bian)備,固城池(chi),彼不(bu)犯邊(bian)(bian),毋(wu)擅以兵逼之(zhi)(zhi),果來(lai)降(jiang)(jiang),亦(yi)察其(qi)(qi)實,俾(bi)之(zhi)(zhi)入境,或近邊(bian)(bian)居止,或打(da)圍,或往北行,聽其(qi)(qi)所(suo)(suo)之(zhi)(zhi)”宣(xuan)(xuan)德八年(nian),海西(xi)女(nv)(nv)真不(bu)斷受(shou)(shou)到兀良哈等蒙軍(jun)的(de)(de)侵擾故向遼東都(dou)司(si)求(qiu)(qiu)救,明(ming)宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)亦(yi)以“彼來(lai)擾(遼東)則(ze)御(yu)之(zhi)(zhi),不(bu)擾亦(yi)勿侮(wu)之(zhi)(zhi)”。宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)的(de)(de)決策(ce)給明(ming)蒙雙方造成很大(da)(da)影響,彼時(shi)明(ming)軍(jun)軍(jun)力(li)尚處(chu)于(yu)(yu)(yu)強(qiang)盛時(shi)期,蒙古自(zi)思(si)不(bu)能(neng)力(li)敵(di)既(ji)以使(shi)臣(chen)名義遣間諜長居明(ming)邊(bian)(bian),招攬明(ming)將(jiang),避免直接與(yu)(yu)明(ming)軍(jun)發(fa)(fa)生沖突,專(zhuan)重(zhong)蠶(can)食東勝,開平,大(da)(da)寧舊地(di)(di),以脫(tuo)(tuo)脫(tuo)(tuo)不(bu)花(hua)的(de)(de)名義安穩蒙古各部(bu),鎮撫關西(xi)七衛、女(nv)(nv)真衛所(suo)(suo);而明(ming)軍(jun)麾下女(nv)(nv)真衛所(suo)(suo)、蒙古降(jiang)(jiang)人、漢人將(jiang)領(ling)發(fa)(fa)現既(ji)然無(wu)法同(tong)(tong)洪武永(yong)樂時(shi)代那(nei)樣依靠(kao)對抗蒙軍(jun)升(sheng)官,保(bao)境,只能(neng)選擇與(yu)(yu)蒙軍(jun)合(he)作發(fa)(fa)財,以求(qiu)(qiu)靜邊(bian)(bian)。因正(zheng)統朝(chao)(chao)明(ming)軍(jun)開始(shi)勤于(yu)(yu)(yu)邊(bian)(bian)務才得以發(fa)(fa)現仁(ren)宣(xuan)(xuan)朝(chao)(chao)各處(chu)邊(bian)(bian)防漏(lou)洞,正(zheng)統十(shi)年(nian)十(shi)一(yi)月庚寅,明(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)朱(zhu)祁(qi)(qi)鎮接到報告說來(lai)朝(chao)(chao)貢(gong)的(de)(de)瓦剌使(shi)臣(chen)隨行物(wu)品(pin)中攜帶(dai)了(le)大(da)(da)量盔甲(jia)兵器(qi)弓(gong)(gong)箭銃(chong)炮,經(jing)過調查發(fa)(fa)現是大(da)(da)同(tong)(tong)、宣(xuan)(xuan)府等地(di)(di)走(zou)私(si)商出(chu)售(shou)。鑒(jian)于(yu)(yu)(yu)此時(shi)明(ming)朝(chao)(chao)還(huan)在嚴(yan)格管控火器(qi)制造技術于(yu)(yu)(yu)兩京,能(neng)合(he)法制造火器(qi)的(de)(de)邊(bian)(bian)地(di)(di)衛所(suo)(suo)少之(zhi)(zhi)又少,顯然走(zou)私(si)商跟明(ming)軍(jun)脫(tuo)(tuo)不(bu)了(le)關系。于(yu)(yu)(yu)是朱(zhu)祁(qi)(qi)鎮給當時(shi)大(da)(da)同(tong)(tong)總兵武進伯朱(zhu)冕(mian)和宣(xuan)(xuan)府總兵等將(jiang)官下了(le)一(yi)道敕(chi)令(ling),讓他們今后嚴(yan)厲打(da)擊走(zou)私(si)行為(wei),若再有(you)發(fa)(fa)生嚴(yan)懲不(bu)貸。正(zheng)統十(shi)年(nian)十(shi)一(yi)月庚寅,明(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)朱(zhu)祁(qi)(qi)鎮敕(chi)大(da)(da)同(tong)(tong)、宣(xuan)(xuan)府總兵等官,武進伯朱(zhu)冕(mian)等曰:“瓦剌使(shi)臣(chen)多帶(dai)兵甲(jia)、弓(gong)(gong)矢、銅(tong)銃(chong)諸物(wu),詢其(qi)(qi)所(suo)(suo)由,皆大(da)(da)同(tong)(tong)、宣(xuan)(xuan)府一(yi)路(lu)貪(tan)利之(zhi)(zhi)徒(明(ming)朝(chao)(chao)對火器(qi)有(you)極嚴(yan)格的(de)(de)產地(di)(di)要(yao)求(qiu)(qiu)及管理(li)規(gui)定,明(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)所(suo)(suo)指貪(tan)利之(zhi)(zhi)徒是誰不(bu)言自(zi)明(ming))私(si)與(yu)(yu)交(jiao)易者(zhe)。爾(er)等受(shou)(shou)朕委任(ren),防閑弛(chi)慢,自(zi)今其(qi)(qi)嚴(yan)加禁約(yue),若仍前(qian)弛(chi)慢,罪亦(yi)不(bu)宥。”
宣德(de)時(shi)期,脫(tuo)歡(huan)對(dui)(dui)(dui)明(ming)(ming)宣宗非常(chang)恭順,瓦剌部使(shi)臣可以(yi)(yi)在甘寧等(deng)處久住,習知中國虛實。正(zheng)統(tong)初,瓦剌太(tai)師脫(tuo)歡(huan)率部擊敗韃靼阿臺汗(han)、朵兒只伯(bo),結束了(le)(le)蒙古(gu)內部的(de)(de)(de)(de)分(fen)裂(lie)局面。正(zheng)統(tong)四(si)年(nian)(1439年(nian)),也(ye)(ye)先(xian)承襲父(fu)位,統(tong)領蒙古(gu)。脫(tuo)歡(huan)與(yu)也(ye)(ye)先(xian)都十(shi)分(fen)重視與(yu)明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)的(de)(de)(de)(de)朝(chao)貢往來(lai),隨著(zhu)蒙古(gu)內部的(de)(de)(de)(de)相(xiang)(xiang)對(dui)(dui)(dui)穩定,明(ming)(ming)蒙朝(chao)貢體制也(ye)(ye)進入了(le)(le)前所未(wei)有的(de)(de)(de)(de)繁榮期。明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)對(dui)(dui)(dui)于蒙古(gu)使(shi)團(tuan)始終(zhong)本(ben)著(zhu)“薄來(lai)厚(hou)往”的(de)(de)(de)(de)政策(ce)。首先(xian),賞(shang)賜(si)(si)物品價值要遠遠超出貢品的(de)(de)(de)(de)價值。一(yi)般明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)對(dui)(dui)(dui)來(lai)朝(chao)者按其(qi)人數(shu)(shu)及地(di)位給(gei)(gei)賞(shang)。如賜(si)(si)王或太(tai)師一(yi)人十(shi)五(wu)表里(li),其(qi)妻每(mei)口八(ba)表里(li),一(yi)等(deng)頭(tou)(tou)目八(ba)表里(li),二(er)等(deng)六表里(li),三等(deng)五(wu)表里(li),四(si)等(deng)四(si)表里(li),外有加(jia)(jia)賜(si)(si)。蒙古(gu)使(shi)團(tuan)返程時(shi),明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)也(ye)(ye)會以(yi)(yi)禮相(xiang)(xiang)送,啟程前享用朝(chao)廷(ting)的(de)(de)(de)(de)賜(si)(si)宴,回程一(yi)路差官伴送,沿途備辦飯(fan)食,凡所經過,茶飯(fan)管(guan)待。明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)這種“薄來(lai)厚(hou)往”的(de)(de)(de)(de)回賜(si)(si)政策(ce)對(dui)(dui)(dui)蒙古(gu)使(shi)團(tuan)的(de)(de)(de)(de)吸引是很大(da)的(de)(de)(de)(de),很多(duo)(duo)蒙古(gu)使(shi)團(tuan)為了(le)(le)得到更的(de)(de)(de)(de)賞(shang)賜(si)(si),成倍的(de)(de)(de)(de)擴大(da)使(shi)團(tuan)人數(shu)(shu)。如正(zheng)統(tong)四(si)年(nian)(1439年(nian))正(zheng)月明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)對(dui)(dui)(dui)蒙古(gu)諸(zhu)多(duo)(duo)貴(gui)族給(gei)(gei)予賞(shang)賜(si)(si)后(hou)(hou),十(shi)月,脫(tuo)脫(tuo)不(bu)花再次遣阿都赤來(lai)朝(chao),這次的(de)(de)(de)(de)使(shi)團(tuan)人數(shu)(shu)由過去常(chang)見的(de)(de)(de)(de)幾(ji)百人猛增到千余(yu)人,明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)依然(ran)按例給(gei)(gei)賞(shang)。明(ming)(ming)廷(ting)對(dui)(dui)(dui)蒙古(gu)使(shi)團(tuan)人數(shu)(shu)不(bu)加(jia)(jia)限制,凡來(lai)朝(chao)者必有賞(shang)賜(si)(si),這對(dui)(dui)(dui)某(mou)些蒙古(gu)頭(tou)(tou)目的(de)(de)(de)(de)貪(tan)欲(yu)是一(yi)種刺激,也(ye)(ye)為后(hou)(hou)來(lai)也(ye)(ye)先(xian)使(shi)團(tuan)謊報人數(shu)(shu)埋(mai)下伏筆。
宣(xuan)(xuan)德(de)十年(1435年),明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)駕崩,皇太子朱祁鎮即(ji)位,即(ji)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)。隨著(zhu)“一(yi)夫跳梁”“文(wen)宗(zong)罪人”的(de)(de)三楊去世,三楊歌功頌德(de),粉飾現實的(de)(de)弊端開始突顯,“自仁宗(zong)不(bu)勤遠(yuan)略,宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)承(cheng)之(zhi)。”經(jing)過明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)宣(xuan)(xuan)宗(zong)巡邏的(de)(de)罷邊主(zhu)和的(de)(de)政策(ce)施行,導致了(le)(le)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)(jun)異(yi)域情(qing)報(bao)(bao)功能(neng)的(de)(de)失(shi)靈(ling)。明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)(jun)從此(ci)沒有了(le)(le)洪武永樂兩朝(chao)捕獲精(jing)準的(de)(de)有源(yuan)頭的(de)(de)異(yi)域情(qing)報(bao)(bao)數據(ju)的(de)(de)能(neng)力,在只(zhi)有垃圾信息的(de)(de)情(qing)況中卻要(yao)強行分析時勢(shi),結果只(zhi)能(neng)是(shi)雙(shuang)方(fang)接戰時戰敗。當時明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)集團按照收到的(de)(de)情(qing)報(bao)(bao)分析推(tui)演,理論上明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝(chao)軍(jun)(jun)隊前(qian)方(fang)的(de)(de)預定水(shui)源(yuan)地(di)(di)作為長城以內的(de)(de)地(di)(di)區是(shi)不(bu)應該存在敵(di)人的(de)(de)騎兵(bing)。整個(ge)部(bu)隊是(shi)一(yi)個(ge)倒梯形陣(zhen)形,目(mu)的(de)(de)是(shi)防備(bei)后面的(de)(de)9萬(wan)瓦(wa)剌軍(jun)(jun)追上來攻擊(ji)(ji)背后,明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英(ying)宗(zong)集團誰能(neng)想到,錦衣衛及夜不(bu)收竟然沒有捕捉到前(qian)面(也就是(shi)歸途的(de)(de)大門口上)居然有3萬(wan)瓦(wa)剌軍(jun)(jun)已經(jing)按口袋陣(zhen)蹲守伏擊(ji)(ji)至少半個(ge)月。搞明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)白瓦(wa)剌軍(jun)(jun)不(bu)是(shi)背后一(yi)支,而是(shi)前(qian)后兩只(zhi),土(tu)木(mu)堡(bao)之(zhi)變的(de)(de)問(wen)題(ti)就迎刃而解(jie)了(le)(le)。但長期(qi)史書上都不(bu)提伏擊(ji)(ji)的(de)(de)那3萬(wan)(一(yi)說兩萬(wan))瓦(wa)剌伏馬。
加(jia)上明(ming)(ming)廷的(de)(de)主要(yao)視線在(zai)南方(fang)麓(lu)(lu)(lu)川及再(zai)下南洋(yang),朱(zhu)(zhu)(zhu)祁鎮在(zai)正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)三年(nian)(nian)(亦集乃之戰(zhan))、正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)六年(nian)(nian)(豐(feng)州之戰(zhan))、正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)九年(nian)(nian)(以克列蘇之戰(zhan))所發(fa)動(dong)(dong)的(de)(de)三次(ci)大(da)規模北(bei)伐(fa)(fa)(fa)的(de)(de)主將(jiang),除了楊、石等人外大(da)多投入南征(zheng)(zheng)隊伍之中。明(ming)(ming)正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)十(shi)(shi)(shi)一年(nian)(nian)(1446年(nian)(nian))冬天,也先(xian)(xian)攻打兀(wu)良哈(ha),派遣使(shi)臣抵達明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)邊鎮大(da)同乞糧,并且請求會見(jian)(jian)守(shou)備(bei)太監郭敬(jing)。朱(zhu)(zhu)(zhu)祁鎮敕令郭敬(jing)不要(yao)接見(jian)(jian)也先(xian)(xian),也不要(yao)給他(ta)糧食(shi)。明(ming)(ming)正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)十(shi)(shi)(shi)二年(nian)(nian)(1447年(nian)(nian)),也先(xian)(xian)再(zai)次(ci)致書明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)宣府守(shou)將(jiang)楊洪(hong)。楊洪(hong)奏報朝(chao)(chao)廷之后(hou)(hou),朱(zhu)(zhu)(zhu)祁鎮要(yao)他(ta)禮遇(yu)瓦(wa)剌(la)使(shi)臣。面對(dui)瓦(wa)剌(la)的(de)(de)蠢蠢欲動(dong)(dong),明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)北(bei)方(fang)的(de)(de)禍亂(luan)已近在(zai)眼前,但是(shi)英(ying)宗君(jun)臣視而(er)不見(jian)(jian),卻發(fa)動(dong)(dong)了對(dui)麓(lu)(lu)(lu)川的(de)(de)第四次(ci)征(zheng)(zheng)討。正(zheng)(zheng)(zheng)統(tong)(tong)十(shi)(shi)(shi)三年(nian)(nian)(1448年(nian)(nian))三月,思機發(fa)再(zai)次(ci)掠奪(duo)孟養,明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)屢(lv)次(ci)諭令仍(reng)不從。英(ying)宗復命靖遠伯王驥提督(du)軍(jun)務,都督(du)宮聚為總兵(bing),張軏、田(tian)禮為左右副(fu)總兵(bing),方(fang)瑛、張銳為左右參將(jiang),率南京、云南、湖廣、四川、貴(gui)州土漢軍(jun)十(shi)(shi)(shi)三萬討伐(fa)(fa)(fa)麓(lu)(lu)(lu)川。明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)征(zheng)(zheng)伐(fa)(fa)(fa)麓(lu)(lu)(lu)川,明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)(chao)調動(dong)(dong)了大(da)量人力(li)物力(li),戰(zhan)爭造成了重大(da)的(de)(de)人員傷亡,連(lian)(lian)年(nian)(nian)征(zheng)(zheng)戰(zhan),仍(reng)未徹底平息叛亂(luan),最終以盟約形式結束;期間連(lian)(lian)續(xu)發(fa)動(dong)(dong)數十(shi)(shi)(shi)萬人的(de)(de)進(jin)攻,致使(shi)大(da)軍(jun)疲憊(bei)、國庫虧(kui)空,對(dui)北(bei)面蒙古瓦(wa)剌(la)的(de)(de)防御空虛。郭琰的(de)(de)下番海(hai)船造完后(hou)(hou)沿海(hai)又出現大(da)規模民變,后(hou)(hou)因張昭反對(dui)再(zai)下西(xi)洋(yang)逐罷(ba)。
也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)通過在(zai)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝居住的(de)(de)瓦(wa)剌(la)使(shi)(shi)臣及明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)庭(ting)內部高中(zhong)低層內奸(jian),大(da)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)邊防虛實(shi)動靜皆已知曉,進(jin)攻時(shi)(shi)間節(jie)點選(xuan)的(de)(de)非常(chang)合(he)適。其中(zhong)就有(you)(you)達官(guan)賽因(yin)(yin)不花、四(si)朝元老(lao)御(yu)(yu)監(jian)(jian)郭敬的(de)(de)家(jia)(jia)人把伯、義州衛軍(jun)士王文、李讓(rang)、施帶兒(er)(er)(er)、小(xiao)田兒(er)(er)(er)、加(jia)失(shi)領(ling)真、大(da)同(tong)指揮李讓(rang)幼(you)女(nv)為(wei)(wei)(wei)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)弟大(da)同(tong)王兒(er)(er)(er)婦(fu)(fu),也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)許以(yi)知院,又(you)(you)(you)密受也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)賞馬四(si)匹(pi),被虜(lu)婦(fu)(fu)女(nv)二口(kou)。將各城指揮姓名盡(jin)報(bao)(bao)與(yu)(yu)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)。跛兒(er)(er)(er)干,本歸降蒙古人,任御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)少監(jian)(jian)。明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)庭(ting)給事宮禁數(shu)十(shi)年,及土木(mu)之(zhi)(zhi)敗即(ji)助(zhu)虜(lu)反(fan)(fan)攻射內使(shi)(shi)黎定(ding),既又(you)(you)(you)為(wei)(wei)(wei)虜(lu)使(shi)(shi)來有(you)(you)所(suo)需(xu)索(suo),明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝命執而誅之(zhi)(zhi)。正(zheng)統(tong)十(shi)四(si)年十(shi)月二日御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)少監(jian)(jian)跛兒(er)(er)(er)干伏誅。根據《歷代(dai)符牌(pai)(pai)圖錄(lu)》記載,南西伯利亞出(chu)(chu)土的(de)(de)腰(yao)(yao)(yao)牌(pai)(pai)屬(shu)于明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝的(de)(de)御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)。御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)是(shi)統(tong)領(ling)禁軍(jun)的(de)(de),是(shi)屬(shu)于武職,由于御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)十(shi)分重(zhong)(zhong)要(yao)(yao),其腰(yao)(yao)(yao)牌(pai)(pai)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)十(shi)分重(zhong)(zhong)要(yao)(yao),無腰(yao)(yao)(yao)牌(pai)(pai)者一律重(zhong)(zhong)罪(zui),擅自(zi)(zi)把腰(yao)(yao)(yao)牌(pai)(pai)借給別人者借者和借予者同(tong)罪(zui),所(suo)以(yi)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝內部出(chu)(chu)現了內奸(jian)。《明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗實(shi)錄(lu)》:“跛兒(er)(er)(er)干及土木(mu)之(zhi)(zhi)敗,即(ji)助(zhu)虜(lu)反(fan)(fan)攻,射內使(shi)(shi)黎定(ding)。”《北(bei)使(shi)(shi)錄(lu)》記載:“也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)人馬四(si)圍,大(da)戰,大(da)軍(jun)倒(dao)戈(ge),自(zi)(zi)相蹂(rou)踐。”這(zhe)兩條記載明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)確表(biao)示了當時(shi)(shi)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)的(de)(de)確有(you)(you)大(da)軍(jun)叛亂(luan),前者更(geng)是(shi)點名跛兒(er)(er)(er)干發動了叛亂(luan)。跛兒(er)(er)(er)干可是(shi)御(yu)(yu)馬監(jian)(jian)的(de)(de)人,這(zhe)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)是(shi)為(wei)(wei)(wei)什(shen)么(me)瓦(wa)剌(la)每次都(dou)能(neng)洞悉明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)的(de)(de)去向,且為(wei)(wei)(wei)什(shen)么(me)大(da)軍(jun)一觸即(ji)潰(kui)的(de)(de)原(yuan)因(yin)(yin)。也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)又(you)(you)(you)重(zhong)(zhong)金賄(hui)賂明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗的(de)(de)翻(fan)譯(yi)官(guan)員馬云、馬青(qing),探聽明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)廷(ting)(ting)的(de)(de)虛實(shi),提出(chu)(chu)與(yu)(yu)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)廷(ting)(ting)皇室通婚(hun)的(de)(de)要(yao)(yao)求,因(yin)(yin)為(wei)(wei)(wei)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)欲與(yu)(yu)黃(huang)金家(jia)(jia)族比高,所(suo)以(yi)想為(wei)(wei)(wei)兒(er)(er)(er)子求娶(qu)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝公(gong)主夸耀蒙古群雄之(zhi)(zhi)中(zhong),明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝達官(guan)千戶馬云(這(zhe)人在(zai)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)史研究(jiu)中(zhong)極重(zhong)(zhong)要(yao)(yao),曾任明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗下西洋和番(fan)指揮、撒(sa)馬兒(er)(er)(er)罕公(gong)使(shi)(shi))、馬青(qing)、吳(wu)良等(deng)私(si)下許諾,并說還要(yao)(yao)送也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)美女(nv)。但因(yin)(yin)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝重(zhong)(zhong)開大(da)宋天的(de)(de)意(yi)識形態(tai)的(de)(de)關系,明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝翻(fan)譯(yi)官(guan)馬云、馬青(qing)事后(hou)未(wei)敢將此事奏報(bao)(bao)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)廷(ting)(ting)。后(hou)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)貢(gong)使(shi)(shi)至稱:“此聘(pin)禮也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)(供馬為(wei)(wei)(wei)迎娶(qu)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝公(gong)主聘(pin)禮),”明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)廷(ting)(ting)答復:“詔無許姻意(yi)(沒有(you)(you)許婚(hun)這(zhe)回事)”。也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)以(yi)為(wei)(wei)(wei)通婚(hun)成功,方才(cai)遣使(shi)(shi)貢(gong)馬作為(wei)(wei)(wei)聘(pin)禮,結(jie)果大(da)失(shi)顏面。事后(hou)也(ye)(ye)(ye)(ye)先(xian)以(yi)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝刁難貢(gong)使(shi)(shi)并撕毀婚(hun)約(yue)及隨意(yi)克減歲賜為(wei)(wei)(wei)由,集結(jie)軍(jun)隊出(chu)(chu)兵大(da)舉進(jin)攻明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝邊境,對內則稱要(yao)(yao)明(ming)(ming)(ming)(ming)朝予他大(da)都(dou)。
明正統十四(si)年(nian)(1449年(nian))二月(yue),瓦剌太師也(ye)先(xian)遣(qian)使2000余人貢馬,詐稱3000人,向明朝(chao)中央邀賞,由于(yu)宦(huan)官王振(zhen)不(bu)肯(ken)多給賞賜(si),按實際(ji)人數給賞,并減去(qu)馬價五分之四(si),沒能滿(man)足他們的(de)要(yao)求,就制造(zao)釁端。遂于(yu)這(zhe)年(nian)七月(yue),統率(lv)各部(bu),分四(si)路大(da)舉(ju)向內地(di)騷擾(rao)。東路,由脫(tuo)脫(tuo)不(bu)花(hua)與兀良哈部(bu)攻(gong)遼東;西路,派別(bie)將(jiang)進(jin)攻(gong)甘州(甘肅張掖);中路為進(jin)攻(gong)的(de)重點,又分為兩支,一支由阿(a)剌知院所(suo)統率(lv),直攻(gong)宣府圍(wei)赤(chi)城,另一支由也(ye)先(xian)親(qin)率(lv)進(jin)攻(gong)大(da)同(tong)(tong)。也(ye)先(xian)進(jin)攻(gong)大(da)同(tong)(tong)的(de)一路,“兵(bing)鋒甚銳(rui),大(da)同(tong)(tong)兵(bing)失利,塞(sai)外(wai)城堡,所(suo)至陷沒”。大(da)同(tong)(tong)參將(jiang)吳浩戰(zhan)死于(yu)貓兒莊。明遣(qian)駙馬都尉井源等四(si)將(jiang)各率(lv)兵(bing)萬人御敵。
當(dang)時明(ming)英宗寵信宦官王振(zhen)。張太(tai)(tai)皇太(tai)(tai)后(hou)病(bing)逝,元老三楊(yang)或死或貶(bian),王振(zhen)更加(jia)擅作(zuo)威(wei)福(fu),無所忌憚,竟盜走明(ming)太(tai)(tai)祖(zu)朱元璋所立禁(jin)內(nei)臣(chen)干預朝(chao)政所立之鐵碑。從(cong)此(ci),大權獨攬,廣植私黨,使其侄王山為錦(jin)衣衛(wei)(wei)指揮,王林為錦(jin)衣衛(wei)(wei)僉(qian)事(shi),其黨羽個個升官進祿,飛黃騰(teng)達。他又排斥異己,陷害忠(zhong)良。
大(da)同前線(xian)的敗報不(bu)斷傳到北京,明英宗(zong)朱祁鎮(zhen)在王振的煽惑與(yu)挾持(chi)下,準(zhun)備親征。兵(bing)部尚書(shu)鄺埜(ye)和侍郎于(yu)謙“力(li)言六(liu)師不(bu)宜輕(qing)出”,吏部尚書(shu)王直率(lv)群臣上疏勸諫,但明英宗(zong)偏信王振,一意(yi)孤行,執意(yi)親征。
正統十(shi)四(si)年(nian)(1449年(nian))7月16日(ri),英宗命其弟郕王(wang)朱(zhu)(zhu)祁鈺留守北京,然后和王(wang)振帶領約25萬大(da)軍(號稱50萬)從北京出(chu)發(fa)。英國公張輔、成國公朱(zhu)(zhu)勇、兵(bing)部尚(shang)書鄺埜、戶部尚(shang)書王(wang)佐、內閣學士(shi)曹鼐(nai)、張益等(deng)文武百官護(hu)駕(jia)從征。
由(you)于(yu)組織不當(dang),一切軍政事務皆由(you)王(wang)(wang)振專斷,即使是成國公朱勇在(zai)王(wang)(wang)振面前也要膝行而前;戶部尚(shang)書王(wang)(wang)佐請皇(huang)帝回軍,王(wang)(wang)振就命其跪在(zai)草叢里(li),直(zhi)到天黑才能起來。隨(sui)征的(de)文武大臣(chen)卻不使參(can)預軍政事務,軍內自相驚亂(luan)。
正統十(shi)(shi)四年(1449年)七月十(shi)(shi)九日(ri),英宗出(chu)居庸(yong)關,過懷(huai)來(lai),至宣(xuan)府(fu)。正統十(shi)(shi)四年(1449年)八月一日(ri),明軍(jun)(jun)進(jin)到(dao)大同。未交鋒,鎮守太監(jian)郭敬報告也先(xian)為誘明軍(jun)(jun)深入,主動北撤(che),王振看到(dao)瓦(wa)剌軍(jun)(jun)北撤(che),仍堅持北進(jin),后聞前方慘敗,則驚慌(huang)撤(che)退。本欲使英宗于(yu)退兵時經(jing)過其家(jia)鄉蔚(yu)州(zhou)“駕幸其第”,顯示(shi)威風;又怕大軍(jun)(jun)損壞他的田園莊稼(jia),故(gu)行軍(jun)(jun)路線(xian)屢變,導致士兵疲(pi)憊不堪。至宣(xuan)府(fu),瓦(wa)剌大隊追(zhui)兵追(zhui)襲而(er)來(lai),明軍(jun)(jun)3萬騎(qi)兵被“殺(sha)掠殆盡(jin)”。正統十(shi)(shi)四年(1449年)八月十(shi)(shi)三日(ri),明軍(jun)(jun)狼狽逃到(dao)土木堡,而(er)瓦(wa)剌軍(jun)(jun)緊(jin)追(zhui)不舍。
兵部尚書鄺埜一再要求(qiu)馳入居(ju)庸關以保證安全,但王振(zhen)不準(zhun)。土木堡地勢高(gao),無(wu)泉缺水,土木堡之南十五(wu)里處有河,被瓦剌(la)軍占據,將士饑渴難耐(nai),挖井(jing)二(er)丈仍無(wu)水。隔日瓦剌(la)軍隊包圍土木堡。也先(xian)遣使(shi)詐和,并主動撤(che)離,以麻痹明軍。
明(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗不疑有(you)詐,遣曹鼐起(qi)草詔(zhao)書。王(wang)(wang)(wang)振(zhen)下(xia)令(ling)移營就水(shui),當明(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)(jun)大(da)(da)(da)軍(jun)(jun)移動(dong)時,饑渴(ke)難忍的(de)軍(jun)(jun)士(shi)一(yi)哄而起(qi),奔(ben)向(xiang)河邊,亂成一(yi)團。瓦剌(la)軍(jun)(jun)伏兵(bing)四起(qi),趁機發動(dong)總攻(gong),倉(cang)促應戰(zhan)(zhan)的(de)明(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)(jun)被(bei)打得大(da)(da)(da)敗。明(ming)(ming)(ming)軍(jun)(jun)二十余(yu)萬人(ren)有(you)三(san)分之一(yi)戰(zhan)(zhan)死(si)(si),中(zhong)(zhong)傷居(ju)半。太師英國(guo)公(gong)張輔,泰寧侯陳贏,駙馬都(dou)督井源,平鄉伯陳懷(huai),襄城(cheng)伯李珍,遂安(an)伯陳塤,修武伯沈榮(rong),都(dou)督梁成、王(wang)(wang)(wang)貴,戶部尚(shang)書王(wang)(wang)(wang)佐(zuo),兵(bing)部尚(shang)書鄺埜,吏部左(zuo)侍郎(lang)兼翰林(lin)(lin)院(yuan)學(xue)士(shi)曹鼐,刑部右侍郎(lang)丁鉉,工部右侍郎(lang)主永(yong)和,都(dou)察院(yuan)右副(fu)都(dou)御史(shi)鄧(deng)栗,翰林(lin)(lin)院(yuan)侍讀學(xue)士(shi)張益,通政司左(zuo)通政龔(gong)全安(an),太常寺少卿(qing)黃養正、戴慶祖、王(wang)(wang)(wang)一(yi)居(ju),太仆寺少卿(qing)劉容,尚(shang)寶少卿(qing)凌鑄(zhu),給事中(zhong)(zhong)包良佐(zuo)、姚(yao)銑、鮑輝,中(zhong)(zhong)書舍(she)人(ren)俞(yu)(yu)拱、潘澄、錢禺,監察御史(shi)張洪、黃裳、魏貞、夏誠、申祐、尹竑、童存德、孫慶、林(lin)(lin)祥(xiang)鳳(feng),郎(lang)中(zhong)(zhong)齊(qi)汪、馮學(xue)明(ming)(ming)(ming),員外郎(lang)王(wang)(wang)(wang)健、程(cheng)思溫(wen)、程(cheng)式、逯端,主事俞(yu)(yu)鑒、張塘、鄭瑄、大(da)(da)(da)理寺副(fu)馬豫,行人(ren)司正尹昌,行人(ren)羅(luo)如墉(yong),欽天監夏官正劉信(xin),序班李恭、石玉這五(wu)十二名(ming)跟隨(sui)明(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗遠征的(de)群臣(chen)皆死(si)(si)于混(hun)戰(zhan)(zhan)中(zhong)(zhong)。明(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗的(de)護(hu)衛將(jiang)軍(jun)(jun)樊忠(zhong)憤怒至(zhi)極,掄(lun)起(qi)鐵錘(chui)砸(za)碎(sui)了王(wang)(wang)(wang)振(zhen)的(de)腦袋。(但據明(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗自己的(de)回憶王(wang)(wang)(wang)振(zhen)也(ye)是被(bei)瓦剌(la)軍(jun)(jun)殺死(si)(si)的(de))樊忠(zhong)不久亦戰(zhan)(zhan)死(si)(si)。只有(you)大(da)(da)(da)理寺右寺丞(cheng)蕭維楨(zhen)、禮部左(zuo)侍郎(lang)楊善、文選郎(lang)中(zhong)(zhong)李賢等(deng)數人(ren)僥幸逃(tao)出。明(ming)(ming)(ming)英宗看到突圍無望,索性跳下(xia)馬來,面向(xiang)南(nan)方,盤膝而坐,等(deng)待就縛。
不(bu)一(yi)會兒(er),瓦刺兵(bing)沖上(shang)來,一(yi)個士兵(bing)上(shang)前要剝取明英宗(zong)(zong)(zong)的衣甲,一(yi)看他(ta)的衣甲與眾(zhong)不(bu)同,心知不(bu)是(shi)(shi)一(yi)般(ban)人(ren)物,便推擁著(zhu)他(ta)去見(jian)也先(xian)之(zhi)弟賽(sai)(sai)刊王,賽(sai)(sai)刊王在問(wen)(wen)明英宗(zong)(zong)(zong)時,明英宗(zong)(zong)(zong)反(fan)問(wen)(wen)道:“你是(shi)(shi)誰(shui)?是(shi)(shi)也先(xian),還是(shi)(shi)伯顏帖木兒(er),或者是(shi)(shi)賽(sai)(sai)刊王。”賽(sai)(sai)刊王感到(dao)明英宗(zong)(zong)(zong)說話的口(kou)氣很(hen)大,立(li)即報告(gao)也先(xian),也先(xian)立(li)即去向他(ta)請安行君臣禮,獻上(shang)各種(zhong)野(ye)味美食。衛拉特還繳(jiao)獲馬(ma)匹二十(shi)萬頭及無數衣甲器械輜重(zhong)。
政治
土木(mu)之變致使明(ming)英宗被俘;四朝老(lao)臣(chen)張(zhang)輔、駙馬(ma)井源、兵部(bu)尚書鄺埜、戶(hu)部(bu)尚書王佐(zuo)、侍郎丁(ding)銘、王永和(he)以及內閣成員(yuan)曹鼎、張(zhang)益等五十余(yu)名隨行出征(zheng)的(de)文官武(wu)將戰死(si);財產(chan)損失不計其數(shu);明(ming)成祖朱棣留下的(de)五十萬大(da)軍(jun)全(quan)軍(jun)覆沒,最(zui)為精銳(rui)的(de)三大(da)營部(bu)隊亦(yi)隨之毀于(yu)一旦,軍(jun)火(huo)武(wu)器研發亦(yi)被大(da)大(da)阻(zu)礙(ai);京城的(de)門戶(hu)亦(yi)已洞(dong)開;明(ming)英宗復(fu)位后(hou)更是殺了以于(yu)謙(qian)為首等眾多權臣(chen),導致明(ming)朝軍(jun)政在土木(mu)之變之后(hou)第二次斷(duan)層。
隨著開國(guo)武人勛貴(gui)集(ji)(ji)團和(he)靖難(nan)功臣集(ji)(ji)團在土木堡之變被消滅(mie)殆(dai)盡,皇(huang)帝只能(neng)通過內廷的(de)宦官來制衡文(wen)官集(ji)(ji)團以貫徹自己(ji)的(de)意志和(he)整個國(guo)家的(de)意志,文(wen)武大臣和(he)君(jun)主離心離德,國(guo)勢日蹙(cu)。
明英宗(zong)南歸(gui)后(hou),以及皇(huang)儲問題,景泰(tai)、天順年間,明朝皇(huang)權斗(dou)爭愈發激烈,朝臣為了保(bao)護(hu)自身(shen)利益,左(zuo)右搖擺、嫁禍(huo)誣陷,斗(dou)爭也(ye)更加(jia)殘酷。
此(ci)期(qi)(qi)間的(de)(de)(de)內閣也(ye)并未(wei)(wei)發揮出(chu)它的(de)(de)(de)作用(yong)。正統前期(qi)(qi)政歸內閣,三楊為(wei)(wei)軸(zhou),制(zhi)度也(ye)漸趨(qu)完善(shan),但(dan)無(wu)法(fa)阻(zu)止(zhi)自(zi)身實際作用(yong)的(de)(de)(de)逐漸下降。土木(mu)事變(bian)發生前后(hou),內閣作為(wei)(wei)與(yu)皇(huang)帝(di)最為(wei)(wei)親密的(de)(de)(de)輔政機構,未(wei)(wei)能發揮出(chu)其應有的(de)(de)(de)作用(yong),既未(wei)(wei)阻(zu)止(zhi)先期(qi)(qi)的(de)(de)(de)王振擅權(quan),在(zai)后(hou)期(qi)(qi)的(de)(de)(de)北京保衛戰和景(jing)泰(tai)、天(tian)順的(de)(de)(de)風云交替中也(ye)毫無(wu)建樹,表現十分(fen)羸(lei)弱,于(yu)軍國大事退避三舍。這(zhe)段時期(qi)(qi),內閣只能尷(gan)尬地任(ren)由宦官專政,或(huo)被皇(huang)帝(di)輕視而任(ren)用(yong)于(yu)謙(qian),傾心委政,以至(zhi)朝臣不滿,上(shang)書稱于(yu)謙(qian)太(tai)過專權(quan),請求六(liu)部大事須與(yu)內閣一同奏報施行,或(huo)是任(ren)由石(shi)亨、曹吉(ji)祥等奸佞決定(ding)擺布。
軍事
土木堡之變后,明朝精銳(rui)軍隊(dui)損失殆盡,這(zhe)必然(ran)會(hui)引起(qi)相關的(de)(de)政(zheng)策、制度(du)的(de)(de)重大變化,突出表(biao)現(xian)在(zai)邊防(fang)形勢和(he)軍事制度(du)的(de)(de)改變上。盡管有景泰帝的(de)(de)改革,但也達(da)不到明朝頂(ding)峰(feng)時(shi)的(de)(de)狀態。邊防(fang)政(zheng)策由積(ji)極(ji)進攻轉變為被動防(fang)守,最(zui)終形成了著名(ming)的(de)(de)九邊防(fang)御體系。軍事制度(du)上則是募兵制的(de)(de)興(xing)起(qi)。
土木之(zhi)變是明軍不戰自潰。北(bei)京圍城(cheng)不下,則(ze)蒙古內部矛(mao)盾也起(qi)了重要作用。不久,蒙古各(ge)部終(zhong)于兵(bing)戎相(xiang)見,脫(tuo)脫(tuo)不花(hua)汗敗亡。也先稱(cheng)帝,但他(ta)無法解決造成封建割據的經濟(ji)的和政治的矛(mao)盾,而為人又心胸狹窄,荒于酒色,終(zhong)于兵(bing)敗被(bei)殺。
也(ye)有大批的(de)蒙(meng)古人(ren)不愿在(zai)漠北(bei)過艱苦日(ri)子,借此機會轉而投靠(kao)明朝,定居北(bei)京及北(bei)直隸各地。一(yi)些內地的(de)漢人(ren)由于(yu)痛恨明朝暴政而投降也(ye)先,去了蒙(meng)古高原。
1449年(nian)9月1日的土木(mu)之變,是明朝中(zhong)央軍隊第一次(ci)發生(sheng)的一場失敗(bai)戰役(yi)。除了軍事(shi)指揮錯誤的直接原因外,與長期以(yi)來(lai)明朝北方邊防(fang)被破壞有密切關(guan)系,是北方邊防(fang)廢弛(chi)的必(bi)然結果(guo)。而朝中(zhong)的士大夫為防(fang)止明朝重蹈北宋滅亡覆轍(che)起到了重要的作用。
李(li)實:中(zhong)國(guo)人民多如(ru)草(cao)芥,土木(mu)失利(li),出于不(bu)意,未可以為常理。有(you)盛有(you)衰,有(you)隆有(you)替。把禿:亦非我每勇力,乃天的氣(qi)候。楊善(shan):太平日久,將卒相安,況此(ci)行只(zhi)是扈從隨(sui)駕,初無號令(ling)對敵。因四方無虞(yu),只(zhi)修營寺宇而已(yi),何曾操(cao)習?被爾(er)虜兵陡然(ran)沖突(tu),如(ru)何不(bu)走?”李(li)賢:“自古胡人得中(zhong)國(guo)之利(li)未有(you)盛于此(ci)舉者,胡人亦自謂(wei)出于望外(wai),況乘輿為其所獲,其偶然(ran)哉?”