His supporters within the imperial system followed his lead, and his military associates prolonged campaigns in order to continue the benefits of additional funds.

He abrogated powers and official posts, including that of Grand Councilor, and regularly stole public funds and tax revenue.

Unfortunately, their suffering was compounded by severe floods of the Yellow River - an indirect result of the corruption where officials pocketed funds that were meant for the upkeep of canals and dams.

However, Qianlong continued to rule China behind the scenes under the grand title of Taishang Huang (Retired Emperor).

Out of respect for his sister, Gurun Princess Hexiao, the Jiaqing Emperor spared Heshen this dishonorable death, instead ordering him to commit suicide by hanging.

[citation needed] His total property was ultimately estimated at 1,100 million taels of silver, reputed to be equivalent to the imperial revenue of the Qing government for 15 years.

The Jiaqing Emperor charged Heshen with 20 crimes, including various abuses of power, disrespecting imperial prerogatives, and hoarding wealth.

The Chinese Green Standard Army was beset with irregular practice and had lost much of its fighting spirit shown in the early Qing dynasty.

For more than two hundred years Heshen has been a stock villain role, and continues to appear in theatrical, film and television productions.

[citation needed] Hong Kong actor Ruco Chan played Heshen in the 2018 TVB series Succession War, a fictional depiction of the final 28 days of his life.

In the 1988 TVB drama The Formidable Lady from Shaolin, Lau Kong portrayed Heshen as a corrupt, blood thirsty official who was ultimately executed.