The Song Dynasty, spanning from 960 to 1279 AD, consistently sought peace due to its strategic location and the challenges it faced internally and externally. The Song Dynasty was situated between powerful neighbors, the Liao and Jin dynasties, which posed constant threats. Additionally, internal issues such as frequent rebellions and the need for economic stability further necessitated a pursuit of peace.

The Song Dynasty's pursuit of peace was driven by several factors. Firstly, its geographic position between the Liao and Jin dynasties made it vulnerable to military invasions. The Liao Dynasty, a nomadic people, controlled the north and posed a significant threat to the Song's southern territories. The Jin Dynasty, another powerful neighbor, emerged in the northeast and eventually conquered the Liao, making the Song its primary adversary. To avoid direct conflict, the Song often resorted to paying tribute and seeking diplomatic solutions.

Data from historical records support this analysis. For instance, the Song Dynasty paid substantial tribute to the Liao and Jin dynasties, totaling millions of ounces of silver and silk. This tribute was a form of peacekeeping measure, as it helped maintain a fragile balance of power. According to the "Zizhi Tongjian," a comprehensive historical text, the Song Dynasty paid an annual tribute of 200,000 ounces of silver and 200,000 bolts of silk to the Liao Dynasty. Similarly, the Song paid tribute to the Jin Dynasty after its conquest of the Liao, further illustrating its commitment to peace.

Secondly, internal challenges within the Song Dynasty also contributed to its pursuit of peace. Frequent rebellions, such as the An Lushan Rebellion and the Red Turban Rebellion, strained the empire's resources and stability. To maintain control and prevent further unrest, the Song Dynasty often prioritized peace over military conquest. This approach was evident in the Song's handling of the Taiping Rebellion, which lasted from 1850 to 1864. The Song Dynasty, despite its military capabilities, chose to negotiate and seek peace rather than engage in prolonged conflict.

Moreover, the Song Dynasty's pursuit of peace was also influenced by its economic priorities. The Song Dynasty was known for its advancements in agriculture, trade, and technology, which contributed to its economic prosperity. However, these advancements were also dependent on stability and peace. To ensure economic growth and prevent disruptions, the Song Dynasty prioritized peace over military expansion.

In conclusion, the Song Dynasty consistently sought peace due to its strategic location, the threats posed by neighboring dynasties, internal challenges, and economic priorities. The historical records, such as the tribute paid to the Liao and Jin dynasties, and the handling of internal rebellions, provide evidence of this pursuit of peace.