淮阴侯列传

Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →, Marquis of Huaiyin, was a native of Huaiyin. In his youth he was poor and of loose morals. He could not be recommended for office, nor could he earn a living by trade or commerce. He often depended on others for food and drink, and many grew weary of him. For some months he regularly ate at the home of the chief of the Nanchang post downriver, but the man's wife took offense at this. She rose early to cook and eat her meal before the usual time. When Xin arrived at the proper hour, no food had been prepared for him. Understanding her intent, he flew into a rage and never returned.

Among the butchers of Huaiyin there was a young man who insulted Xin, saying, "Though you have grown tall and affect to carry a sword, your heart is timid." Publicly mocking him, the young man declared, "If you have the nerve to die, strike me down; if not, crawl under my legs." Xin studied him for a long while, then knelt and crawled beneath him. The whole market laughed at him, considering him a coward.

When Xiang Liang crossed the Huai River, Xin joined him bearing a sword, serving among his officers but remaining unknown. After Xiang Liang's defeat, Xin transferred to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces, who made him a palace guard. Xin presented several strategies to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, who refused to employ them.

When Xiang Liang crossed the Huai River, Xin joined him bearing a sword, serving among his officers but remaining unknown. After Xiang Liang's defeat, Xin transferred to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces, who made him a palace guard. Xin presented several strategies to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, who refused to employ them.

When Xiang Liang crossed the Huai River, Xin joined him bearing a sword, serving among his officers but remaining unknown. After Xiang Liang's defeat, Xin transferred to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces, who made him a palace guard. Xin presented several strategies to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, who refused to employ them.

When Xiang Liang crossed the Huai River, Xin joined him bearing a sword, serving among his officers but remaining unknown. After Xiang Liang's defeat, Xin transferred to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces, who made him a palace guard. Xin presented several strategies to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, who refused to employ them.

When the King of Han entered Shu, Xin deserted Chu for Han, still unknown, and was appointed a supply officer. For a violation of the law he was to be executed; his thirteen companions had already been beheaded when Xin arrived. He looked up and caught sight of the Duke of Teng, exclaiming, "Does not the sovereign wish to claim the empire? Why kill a bold warrior?" The Duke of Teng was struck by his words and his noble bearing, and released him without execution. After speaking with him, the Duke was greatly pleased and recommended him to the sovereign, who appointed Xin Commandant of the Granaries—yet the sovereign did not find him remarkable.

When the King of Han entered Shu, Xin deserted Chu for Han, still unknown, and was appointed a supply officer. For a violation of the law he was to be executed; his thirteen companions had already been beheaded when Xin arrived. He looked up and caught sight of the Duke of Teng, exclaiming, "Does not the sovereign wish to claim the empire? Why kill a bold warrior?" The Duke of Teng was struck by his words and his noble bearing, and released him without execution. After speaking with him, the Duke was greatly pleased and recommended him to the sovereign, who appointed Xin Commandant of the Granaries—yet the sovereign did not find him remarkable.

When the King of Han entered Shu, Xin deserted Chu for Han, still unknown, and was appointed a supply officer. For a violation of the law he was to be executed; his thirteen companions had already been beheaded when Xin arrived. He looked up and caught sight of the Duke of Teng, exclaiming, "Does not the sovereign wish to claim the empire? Why kill a bold warrior?" The Duke of Teng was struck by his words and his noble bearing, and released him without execution. After speaking with him, the Duke was greatly pleased and recommended him to the sovereign, who appointed Xin Commandant of the Granaries—yet the sovereign did not find him remarkable.

Xin had several conversations with Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile →, who found him extraordinary. Near Nanzheng, dozens of officers and men deserted along the road. Xin judged that Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → had spoken of him repeatedly to the sovereign, but that the sovereign still would not employ him, so he fled. Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile →, learning of his departure, did not report it to the sovereign but set off in pursuit. Someone told the sovereign, "The Chancellor has fled." The sovereign was furious, feeling he had lost his right and left hands.

A day or two later, Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → arrived to see the sovereign, who was both angry and pleased. "Why did you flee?" he demanded. "Your servant did not flee," Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → replied. "I went after the man who fled." "And who did you pursue?" "Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →." The sovereign cursed again: "Of the officers who have fled, I count dozens; yet you pursue none of them. You lie about this Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →." Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → answered, "The others are easy to find. But a man like Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →—there is no match for him in the kingdom. If Your Majesty intends merely to rule the region of Hanzhong, you have no use for Xin. But if you aspire to contest the empire, there is no one else to plan strategy with." The sovereign said, "I too wish to march east. How could I remain cooped up here in dejection?" Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → replied, "If Your Majesty truly intends to go east and can employ Xin, he will stay. If not, he will certainly leave." The sovereign declared, "For your sake, I shall make him a general." "Make him a general, and he will not stay," Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → responded. "Then make him Grand General," said the sovereign. "That would be most fortunate."

In the ninth month, Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → defeated the army of Dai and captured Xia Yue at Eyu. After Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → conquered Wei and defeated Dai, the King of Han immediately sent men to take over his crack troops and dispatch them to Xingyang to resist the Chu army. Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → and Zhang Er led tens of thousands of soldiers, intending to march east and descend upon Jingxing Pass to attack Zhao. The King of Zhao and Lord Cheng'an, Chen Yu, hearing that the Han forces were about to strike, assembled troops at the Jingxing Pass, proclaiming a force of two hundred thousand. Lord Guangwu, Li Zuoche, advised Lord Cheng'an: 'I have heard that the Han general Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → crossed the West River, captured the King of Wei, seized Xia Yue, and has just recently drenched his blade with blood at Eyu; now he is supported by Zhang Er...'

'They are discussing a plan to conquer Zhao. This is taking advantage of victory to go far from their homeland and fight deep in enemy territory; their sharp edge cannot be withstood. I have heard that if grain is transported a thousand li, the soldiers will look famished; if they have to gather firewood and forage before cooking, the army cannot eat its fill overnight. Now, on the road through Jingxing, chariots cannot travel side by side, cavalry cannot form ranks. After marching several hundred li, the circumstances are such that their provisions must be trailing in the rear. I beg you, my lord, to lend me thirty thousand picked troops, to take a side path and cut off their baggage train; meanwhile, you should deepen the moats and raise the ramparts, hold the camp firmly and do not engage them in battle.'

The sovereign now wished to summon Xin and invest him as Grand General. Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → advised, "Your Majesty has always been casual and discourteous. To appoint a Grand General as one would call a child is precisely why he would leave. If you truly wish to appoint him, choose an auspicious day, fast and purify yourself, prepare an altar and ceremony, and only then proceed." The sovereign agreed. All the generals were pleased, each thinking he himself would be named Grand General. When the appointment was announced, it was Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →—and the entire army was stunned.

The sovereign now wished to summon Xin and invest him as Grand General. Xiao HeXiao HeHan Dynasty Prime MinisterThe man who managed an empire while Liu Bang won battles — and saved the Shiji by memorizing it before burning palaces could destroy it.View profile → advised, "Your Majesty has always been casual and discourteous. To appoint a Grand General as one would call a child is precisely why he would leave. If you truly wish to appoint him, choose an auspicious day, fast and purify yourself, prepare an altar and ceremony, and only then proceed." The sovereign agreed. All the generals were pleased, each thinking he himself would be named Grand General. When the appointment was announced, it was Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →—and the entire army was stunned.

At dawn, Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → set up the great general's banner and drums, and marched out of Jingxing Pass to the sound of drums. The Zhao army opened their ramparts and attacked; a great battle raged for a long time. Thereupon Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → and Zhang Er pretended to abandon their drums and banners and fled toward the river encampment. The river encampment opened its gates and let them in, then resumed fierce fighting. The Zhao army indeed emptied their ramparts to vie for the Han army's drums and banners, pursuing Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → and Zhang Er. Once Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → and Zhang Er had entered the river encampment, all the soldiers fought to the death and could not be defeated. The two thousand picked cavalry that Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → had dispatched earlier were all waiting for the Zhao army to empty their camp in pursuit of gain.

Then they galloped into the Zhao camp, pulled down all the Zhao flags, and raised two thousand red banners of Han. The Zhao army, already unable to gain victory and failing to capture Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → and the others, wished to return to their camp. Finding the ramparts filled with Han's red banners, they were terrified, thinking that Han had already captured the King of Zhao and his generals. The soldiers fell into chaos and fled. Although the Zhao generals executed deserters, they could not stop the rout. Thereupon the Han troops attacked from both sides, thoroughly defeated and captured the Zhao army, beheaded Lord Cheng'an, Chen Yu, on the banks of the Zhi River, and captured the King of Zhao, Xie alive.

Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → then ordered the troops not to kill Lord Guangwu, and promised a reward of a thousand gold pieces to anyone who captured him alive. Thereupon someone bound Lord Guangwu and brought him to Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →'s command. Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → untied him, seated him facing east while he himself sat facing west, and treated him as a teacher. The various commanders presented the heads of enemies and prisoners, and after the battle paused to offer their congratulations. They took this chance to ask Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →: "The art of war says that the right flank and rear should be backed by hills, and the front and left should face water and marshes. Yet now, General, you ordered us to instead array our forces with our backs to the river, saying we would defeat Zhao and then reassemble for a meal. We were not convinced. But in the end we won—what tactic is this?" Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → replied: "This is indeed in the art of war, only you gentlemen failed to notice it. Does not the art of war say: 'Cast them into a deadly situation and they will survive; plunge them into a hopeless position and they will live'?"

Besides, I am not one who has long soothed and guided the officers and men; this is what is meant by ‘driving market folk into battle.’ In that situation, unless you place them on death ground and make each man fight for his own life, if you now give them a way to live, they will all flee—how then could you still make use of them? All the commanders submitted, saying: ‘Excellent. It is beyond our ability.’ Thereupon Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → asked the Lord of Guangwu, ‘I wish to attack Yan in the north and strike Qi in the east; how may I achieve success?’ The Lord of Guangwu demurred, saying:

The King of Han was overjoyed, feeling he had found Xin too late. He adopted Xin's plans and assigned the various generals to their campaigns.

The King of Han was overjoyed, feeling he had found Xin too late. He adopted Xin's plans and assigned the various generals to their campaigns.

The King of Han was overjoyed, feeling he had found Xin too late. He adopted Xin's plans and assigned the various generals to their campaigns.

The King of Han was overjoyed, feeling he had found Xin too late. He adopted Xin's plans and assigned the various generals to their campaigns.

In the eighth month, the King of Han marched east from Chen Cang and pacified the three Qinchu regions. In the second year of Han, he left the passes, conquered Wei and Henan, and the Kings of Han and Yin submitted. He united with Qi and Zhao to strike Chu. In the fourth month, he reached Pengcheng, where his forces were defeated and scattered, forcing a retreat.

Xin gathered his troops and rejoined the King of Han at Xingyang, then struck again, defeating Chu's forces between Jing and Suo. Thus Chu's army could advance no further west. After the Han defeat at Pengcheng, the King of Qi, the King of Dai, and Prince Xin of Yong all abandoned Han for Chu, while Qi and Zhao also turned against Han and made peace with Chu.

In the sixth month, Prince Wei of Dai requested leave to visit his family. Upon returning to his state, he blocked the river crossing and rebelled against Han, making peace with Chu. The King of Han sent Li Yiji to persuade him, but without success. In the eighth month, Xin was appointed Left Chancellor and dispatched against Wei.

In the sixth month, Prince Wei of Dai requested leave to visit his family. Upon returning to his state, he blocked the river crossing and rebelled against Han, making peace with Chu. The King of Han sent Li Yiji to persuade him, but without success. In the eighth month, Xin was appointed Left Chancellor and dispatched against Wei.

Prince Wei concentrated his forces at Puban and blocked the Linjin crossing. Xin created a diversion, lining up boats as if to cross at Linjin, while his hidden forces crossed the river at Xiayang using wooden barrels to ferry the army, striking Anyi. Prince Wei, startled, led his forces to meet Xin, who captured him and pacified Wei, establishing the region as Hedong Commandery.

The King of Han sent Zhang Er to join Xin, and together they marched northeast to attack Zhao and Dai. In the ninth month of the following year, they defeated Dai's forces and captured Xia Yue at Eryu.

The King of Han sent Zhang Er to join Xin, and together they marched northeast to attack Zhao and Dai. In the ninth month of the following year, they defeated Dai's forces and captured Xia Yue at Eryu.

The King of Han sent Zhang Er to join Xin, and together they marched northeast to attack Zhao and Dai. In the ninth month of the following year, they defeated Dai's forces and captured Xia Yue at Eryu.

Each time Xin pacified Wei and conquered Dai, the Han court sent men to strip away his elite troops and move them to Xingyang to defend against Chu. Xin and Zhang Er, with several tens of thousands of men, prepared to march east through the Jingxing passes to attack Zhao.

Each time Xin pacified Wei and conquered Dai, the Han court sent men to strip away his elite troops and move them to Xingyang to defend against Chu. Xin and Zhang Er, with several tens of thousands of men, prepared to march east through the Jingxing passes to attack Zhao.

Each time Xin pacified Wei and conquered Dai, the Han court sent men to strip away his elite troops and move them to Xingyang to defend against Chu. Xin and Zhang Er, with several tens of thousands of men, prepared to march east through the Jingxing passes to attack Zhao.

Examine the former lands of Qi, hold the territories of the Jiao and Si rivers, soothe the feudal lords with virtue, practice deep humility and ritual deference, and then the rulers of all under heaven will vie to come to court and pay homage to Qi. It is said that when Heaven bestows and you do not take it, you will instead suffer misfortune; when the time arrives and you do not act, you will instead incur calamity. I sincerely wish you to ponder this carefully. Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → replied: “The King of Han has treated me with extreme generosity, letting me ride in his own chariot, clothing me with his own garments, feeding me with his own food. I have heard that he who rides in another’s chariot must bear his troubles, he who wears another’s clothes must harbor his worries, and he who eats another’s food must give his life in that person’s service. How could I turn toward profit and betray righteousness!”

The King of Zhao, the Prince of Chengan, Chen Yu, learned that Han was approaching and massed his forces at the Jingxing defile, claiming two hundred thousand men.

The King of Zhao, the Prince of Chengan, Chen Yu, learned that Han was approaching and massed his forces at the Jingxing defile, claiming two hundred thousand men.

The King of Zhao, the Prince of Chengan, Chen Yu, learned that Han was approaching and massed his forces at the Jingxing defile, claiming two hundred thousand men.

Now you bear a prestige that makes the sovereign tremble, and hold achievements so great they cannot be rewarded. If you return to Chu, the people of Chu will not trust you; if you return to Han, the Han people will be shocked and fearful. With these, where can you go to find peace? To hold the station of a subject yet possess a prestige that overawes the sovereign, to have a name that towers above all under heaven—I privately consider you to be in danger.” Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → thanked him and said: “Sir, please rest for now. I will think on this.” For listening is the sign of action to come, and planning is the pivot of success or failure; those who hear mistakenly and plan wrongly yet can enjoy lasting security are very few.

The strategist Li Zuoche advised the Prince of Chengan: "I have heard that Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → has crossed the western Yellow River, captured the Prince of Wei, seized Xia Yue at Eryu after a bloody battle, and now joins with Zhang Er to march against Zhao—this is an army at the height of its momentum, fighting far from home with an irresistible advance. I have heard the saying: 'When provisions must be carried a thousand li, soldiers grow hungry; when firewood and thatch are gathered only at mealtimes, the army never eats its fill.' The road through Jingxing cannot accommodate two vehicles abreast; cavalry cannot ride in formation. Marching hundreds of li, inevitably their supply train will lag behind. I ask Your Highness to lend me three thousand picked troops to cut their supply lines by a hidden route. Meanwhile, Your Highness fortify your position with deep trenches and high walls, refusing any engagement. Their vanguard cannot fight, their rear cannot retreat—my hidden force will sever their supply lines, leaving nothing to forage in the fields. Within ten days, the heads of both their commanders will be at our command post. I pray Your Highness will consider my plan. If you do not, you will surely be taken by these two men."

The strategist Li Zuoche advised the Prince of Chengan: "I have heard that Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → has crossed the western Yellow River, captured the Prince of Wei, seized Xia Yue at Eryu after a bloody battle, and now joins with Zhang Er to march against Zhao—this is an army at the height of its momentum, fighting far from home with an irresistible advance. I have heard the saying: 'When provisions must be carried a thousand li, soldiers grow hungry; when firewood and thatch are gathered only at mealtimes, the army never eats its fill.' The road through Jingxing cannot accommodate two vehicles abreast; cavalry cannot ride in formation. Marching hundreds of li, inevitably their supply train will lag behind. I ask Your Highness to lend me three thousand picked troops to cut their supply lines by a hidden route. Meanwhile, Your Highness fortify your position with deep trenches and high walls, refusing any engagement. Their vanguard cannot fight, their rear cannot retreat—my hidden force will sever their supply lines, leaving nothing to forage in the fields. Within ten days, the heads of both their commanders will be at our command post. I pray Your Highness will consider my plan. If you do not, you will surely be taken by these two men."

The Prince of Chengan was a pedantic scholar. He constantly declared, "Righteous armies employ no treacherous stratagems," saying, "I have studied the art of war: with ten times the enemy's numbers, surround them; with twice the numbers, give battle. Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → commands, at most, a few thousand men—yet he has marched a thousand li to attack us, exhausting his forces in the process. If we shrink from battle before such a diminished foe, what will we do when a larger enemy appears? The lords will call us cowardly and march against us." He refused Li Zuoche's strategy.

Thus Li Zuoche's counsel was ignored.

Xin had sent scouts ahead, and learning that the plan had been rejected, he was overjoyed. He dared to lead his troops forward. Halting thirty li from the Jingxing defile, he encamped. At midnight he gave the order to advance. He selected two thousand light cavalry, each carrying a red banner, who took a hidden route around the mountain to observe the Zhao forces. "When Zhao sees us flee," he instructed them, "they will abandon their fortifications to pursue. Move swiftly into their camp and replace their banners with Han red banners."

Xin had sent scouts ahead, and learning that the plan had been rejected, he was overjoyed. He dared to lead his troops forward. Halting thirty li from the Jingxing defile, he encamped. At midnight he gave the order to advance. He selected two thousand light cavalry, each carrying a red banner, who took a hidden route around the mountain to observe the Zhao forces. "When Zhao sees us flee," he instructed them, "they will abandon their fortifications to pursue. Move swiftly into their camp and replace their banners with Han red banners."

He ordered his subordinate generals to feed their troops, declaring, "Today we shall destroy Zhao and feast together!" The assembled generals refused to believe it, merely replying, "Yes."

He ordered his subordinate generals to feed their troops, declaring, "Today we shall destroy Zhao and feast together!" The assembled generals refused to believe it, merely replying, "Yes."

Xin then told his officers, "Zhao has already occupied the favorable terrain and built their fortifications. They have not seen my great general's banner or drums, so they will not attack, fearing we might retreat to a defensible position."

He sent ten thousand troops ahead to cross the river and form ranks facing the water. When Zhao's forces saw this, they burst out laughing.

He sent ten thousand troops ahead to cross the river and form ranks facing the water. When Zhao's forces saw this, they burst out laughing.

At dawn, Xin advanced with the Grand General's banner and drums, marching out through the Jingxing defile. Zhao opened their fortifications and attacked. A great battle raged for a long while. Then Xin and Zhang Er feigned retreat, abandoning their drums and banners, fleeing toward the river encampment. The river forces opened their ranks to receive them, then fought back with desperate fury.

Meanwhile, the two thousand cavalry, watching Zhao's entire force abandon their walls to pursue the fleeing Han troops, dashed into the Zhao camp and replaced all their flags, raising two thousand red Han banners.