Sang Hongyang (Chinese: 桑弘羊; c. 152–c.November 80 BC[1]) was a Chinese politician. He was a prominent official of the Han dynasty, who served Emperor Wu of Han and his successor Emperor Zhao. He is famous for his economic policies during the reign of Emperor Wu, the best known of which include the state monopolies over iron and salt - systems which would be imitated by other dynasties throughout Chinese history. Due to political conflict, he was executed in 80 BC by Huo Guang (d. 68 BC).
Sang was one of the participants in the debate of Salt and Iron which took place in 81 BC.
- ^ 9th month of the 1st year of the Yuan'feng era, per vol.23 of Zizhi Tongjian. The month corresponds to 20 Oct to 18 Nov 80 BC in the proleptic Julian calendar.