The content and operation of secret memorial in the Han Dynasty

Memorial is of great importance in governing a country. The changes in form and operating systems in memorial are one of the most important keys to understanding the reform of ancient Chinese political system.The secret memorial was a kind of confidential document,which was presented directly to the emperor and read personally.Its content covered the wife's family relations,the emperor's gains and losses,the country's political and national security.Compared with ordinary memorial,by skipping over the unfolding and reviewing of the Imperial Secretariat,the secret memorials were directly presented to the emperor and were marked by the emperor himself.The transfer process is simple,direct and only a few people and institutions are involved in the delivery.