留侯世家

Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile →, the Marquis of Liu, was originally a native of the state of Han. His grandfather Kaiti had served as chief minister to Kings Zhaohou, Xuanhui, and Xiang'ai of Han. His father Ping had likewise served Kings Likun and Daoqhui. When King Daoqhui had reigned for twenty-three years, Ping died. Twenty years after that, the state of Han was destroyed by Qin. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → was still young and had not yet entered government service. When Han fell, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile →'s household numbered three hundred servants. When his younger brother died, he did not even bury him—instead using all the family wealth to hire assassins to strike at the King of Qin, seeking vengeance for Han. This was because his grandfather and father had served the kings of Han for five generations.

One day, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → was walking peacefully along the Yi bridge when an old man in coarse clothing approached. Walking up to Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile →, he deliberately dropped his shoe off the bridge and called out: "Boy, go down and fetch my shoe!" Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → was startled and wanted to strike him. But because of the old man's advanced age, he forced himself to hold back his anger and fetched the shoe. The old man said, "Put it on for me!" Seeing that he had already fetched the shoe, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → knelt and put it on the old man's foot. The old man accepted it with a smile and walked away. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → was greatly astonished and watched him go. After walking some distance, the old man turned back and said, "The boy is worth teaching! Come back in five days at dawn." Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → thought this strange, but knelt and agreed.

The old man was again there first and again angrily said, 'Late again, why?' He left, saying, 'Come back earlier in five more days.' Five days later, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → went before midnight. After a while, the old man also arrived and happily said, 'That is how it should be.' He took out a book and said, 'Read this and you will be a teacher to kings. In ten years you will rise. Thirteen years from now, you will see me at the foot of Mount Gucheng north of the Ji River; the yellow stone is me.' Then he departed, saying nothing else, and was never seen again.

Living in Xiapi, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → gained a reputation for chivalry. Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile → once committed murder, and Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → helped him hide. Ten years later, when Chen She and others rose in rebellion, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → also gathered over a hundred young men. When Jingiu declared himself acting King of Chu at Liu, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → wished to join him. On the way, he encountered Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →, who was leading several thousand troops and sweeping through the area west of Xiapi. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → attached himself to Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →, who made him a stable officer. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → repeatedly persuaded Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → using the Grand Tutor's military strategies, and Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → approved of them, often adopting his counsel. When Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → spoke of these strategies to others, they never understood. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said, "Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → must be heaven-sent." So he followed him and did not go to see Jingiu.

When Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → arrived in Xue, he met Xiang Liang. Xiang Liang had installed a descendant of the Chu royal family as King Huai of Chu. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → then persuaded Xiang Liang: "You have already installed a descendant of Chu as king. Among the sons and brothers of Han, the worthy prince, Lord Hengyang Cheng, is virtuous. If you could install him as king, you would gain more allies." Xiang Liang sent Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to find Han Cheng and installed him as King of Han, appointing Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → as his chief minister. Together with the King of Han, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → led over a thousand troops westward to attack Han territory, capturing several cities. But Qin would always retake them, so they operated as roving troops in Yingchuan.

When Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → marched south from Luoyang through Huanuan Pass, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → led troops to follow him, capturing over ten cities in Han and defeating General Yang Xiong's army. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → then ordered King Cheng of Han to remain and defend Yangzhai while he and Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → marched south together, capturing Wan and advancing west into Wuguan. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → wanted to attack Qin's Yaoxia forces with twenty thousand troops. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised: "The Qin forces are still strong—we cannot be reckless. I have heard their generals are butchers' sons, and merchants are easily swayed by profit. I suggest you keep your forces in the fortified camp. Send five thousand men ahead with supplies, and set up banners on the hills to create a deceptive force. Then send Li Yiji with precious treasures to bribe the Qin generals." The Qin generals did indeed rebel and proposed a joint march westward to attack Xianyang. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → was inclined to agree. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "This is merely the generals who wish to rebel. I doubt their soldiers will follow. If the soldiers refuse, there will be danger. Better to strike while they are confused." Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → then led his troops to attack Qin's army and defeated them soundly. Advancing north to Lantian and fighting twice more, Qin's forces were finally broken. They then reached Xianyang, where Ziying, the King of Qin, surrendered to Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →.

When Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → marched south from Luoyang through Huanuan Pass, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → led troops to follow him, capturing over ten cities in Han and defeating General Yang Xiong's army. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → then ordered King Cheng of Han to remain and defend Yangzhai while he and Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → marched south together, capturing Wan and advancing west into Wuguan. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → wanted to attack Qin's Yaoxia forces with twenty thousand troops. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised: "The Qin forces are still strong—we cannot be reckless. I have heard their generals are butchers' sons, and merchants are easily swayed by profit. I suggest you keep your forces in the fortified camp. Send five thousand men ahead with supplies, and set up banners on the hills to create a deceptive force. Then send Li Yiji with precious treasures to bribe the Qin generals." The Qin generals did indeed rebel and proposed a joint march westward to attack Xianyang. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → was inclined to agree. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "This is merely the generals who wish to rebel. I doubt their soldiers will follow. If the soldiers refuse, there will be danger. Better to strike while they are confused." Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → then led his troops to attack Qin's army and defeated them soundly. Advancing north to Lantian and fighting twice more, Qin's forces were finally broken. They then reached Xianyang, where Ziying, the King of Qin, surrendered to Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →.

Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → entered the Qin palace, where there were thousands of palace chambers, curtains, hangings, dogs, horses, precious treasures, and women. He wished to stay and live there. Fan Kuai advised Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → to leave and lodge elsewhere, but Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → would not listen. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "Because Qin practiced tyranny, you were able to come this far. To cleanse the realm of cruelty, you should practice moderation. Now you have just entered Qin and already seek comfort—this is what they call 'helping Jie commit tyranny.' Moreover, 'faithful words offend the ear but aid conduct; bitter medicine cures the body.' I hope you will listen to Fan Kuai." Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → then withdrew his army to Baxia.

When 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 → reached Hongmen and prepared to attack Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →, Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile → rode through the night into Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →'s camp. In private he sought out Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile →, hoping to take him away together. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "I was sent by the King of Han to escort Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →. Now there is an emergency—to abandon him would be unrighteous." He therefore told Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → everything. Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → was greatly alarmed and said: "What should be done?" Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → asked: "Do you truly wish to betray 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 →?" Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → said: "A meddling fool told me to hold the passes and bar the other lords from entering, so that I could rule all of Qin. That is why I listened." Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "Do you think you can defeat 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 →?" Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → was silent for a long while, then said: "Of course not. What should I do?" Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → then firmly invited Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile →. Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile → met with Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile →, who drank a toast with him and proposed a marriage alliance. He instructed Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile → to explain clearly that Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → dared not betray 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 →, and that the reason for holding the passes was merely to guard against other bandits. When 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 → subsequently withdrew, the story continues in the account of 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 →.

In the first month of the first year of Han, Liu BangLiu BangEmperor Gaozu of HanA village drunkard with no education and no family name — who somehow outlasted every rival to establish the greatest dynasty in Chinese history.View profile → became King of Han, ruling over Bashu. The King of Han bestowed upon Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → one hundred yi of gold and two dou of pearls, which Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → presented entirely to Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile →. The King of Han then instructed Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to give generous gifts to Xiang BoXiang BoXiang Yu's Uncle / The Midnight MessengerXiang Bo saved Liu Bang at the Hongmen Banquet — out of gratitude for Zhang Liang's kindness. His midnight ride changed China's fate.View profile → and request the lands of Hanzhong. 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 → agreed, and thus the lands of Hanzhong were obtained. When the King of Han went to his kingdom, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → accompanied him to Bao Zhong, then returned to Han. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised the King of Han: "Why not burn and destroy the plank roads along every passage, showing the realm that you have no intention of returning, thereby securing 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 trust?" The King of Han did so, and Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → returned. On the way, he burned the plank roads.

In the third year of Han, 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 → tightly besieged the King of Han at Xingyang. The King of Han, fearful and worried, consulted with Li Yiji about undermining Chu. Li Yiji said: "In ancient times, Tang destroyed Jie and enfeoffed his descendants at Qi. King Wu destroyed Zhou and enfeoffed his descendants at Song. Now Qin has lost virtue and abandoned righteousness, invading and attacking the states, destroying the descendants of the six kingdoms, leaving them without a place to stand. If Your Majesty would restore the descendants of the six states, they would all accept the seals and render service. Their rulers and people would all cherish Your Majesty's virtue and eagerly follow you, wishing to become your subjects. Once virtue and righteousness are spread, Your Majesty could rule supreme in the south and Chu would surely come hat in hand."

In the third year of Han, 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 → tightly besieged the King of Han at Xingyang. The King of Han, fearful and worried, consulted with Li Yiji about undermining Chu. Li Yiji said: "In ancient times, Tang destroyed Jie and enfeoffed his descendants at Qi. King Wu destroyed Zhou and enfeoffed his descendants at Song. Now Qin has lost virtue and abandoned righteousness, invading and attacking the states, destroying the descendants of the six kingdoms, leaving them without a place to stand. If Your Majesty would restore the descendants of the six states, they would all accept the seals and render service. Their rulers and people would all cherish Your Majesty's virtue and eagerly follow you, wishing to become your subjects. Once virtue and righteousness are spread, Your Majesty could rule supreme in the south and Chu would surely come hat in hand."

Before Li Yiji could depart, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → arrived from outside. The King of Han was eating and said: "Zifang, come forward! A guest has proposed a plan to undermine Chu for me. What do you think of Li Yiji's proposal?"

Before Li Yiji could depart, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → arrived from outside. The King of Han was eating and said: "Zifang, come forward! A guest has proposed a plan to undermine Chu for me. What do you think of Li Yiji's proposal?"

Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "Who proposed this plan for Your Majesty? The enterprise is lost!"

Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "Who proposed this plan for Your Majesty? The enterprise is lost!"

Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "Who proposed this plan for Your Majesty? The enterprise is lost!"

The King of Han stopped eating, spat out his food, and cursed: "This bookworm nearly ruined my great undertaking!" He ordered the seal to be destroyed at once. In the fourth year of Han, 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 Qi and intended to declare himself King of Qi; the King of Han was enraged. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → persuaded him, and the King of Han sent Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to confer the seal of the King of Qi upon 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 →. This matter is recorded in the account of the Marquis of Huaiyin. That autumn, the King of Han pursued the Chu army to south of Yangxia, but the battle went against him and he fortified his position at Guling; the feudal lords who had agreed to join failed to arrive on time. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised the King of Han, who adopted his plan, and then all the feudal lords arrived. This matter is recorded in the account of 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 →.

The King of Han stopped eating, spat out his food, and cursed: "You base Confucian! You've nearly ruined my enterprise!" He ordered the seals immediately destroyed.

In the autumn of the fourth year of Han, 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 Qi and wished to make himself King of Qi. The King of Han was furious. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised the King of Han, who sent Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to confer upon 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 seal of King of Qi. The story continues in the account of the Marquis of Huaiyin.

In the autumn of the fourth year of Han, 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 Qi and wished to make himself King of Qi. The King of Han was furious. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised the King of Han, who sent Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to confer upon 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 seal of King of Qi. The story continues in the account of the Marquis of Huaiyin.

That autumn, the King of Han pursued Chu to the south of Yangxia but was defeated and forced to fortify his position at Guling. When the allied princes did not arrive as expected, Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → advised the King of Han, who adopted his strategy, and all the princes arrived. The story continues in the account of 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 →.

In the first month of the sixth year of Han, the emperor enfeoffed his meritorious officials. Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → had never performed any martial feats, but the Emperor Gaozu said: "Devising strategies from within the tent, determining victory a thousand li away—such is your merit, Zifang. Choose for yourself thirty thousand households in Qi." Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → said: "When I first rose in Xiapi, I met Your Majesty at Liu—this was heaven sending me to Your Majesty. Your Majesty employed my strategies and they sometimes proved correct. I am content with the enfeoffment at Liu. I dare not accept thirty thousand households." Thus Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → was made Marquis of Liu, along 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 → and the others.

The emperor had already enfeoffed over twenty major ministers, but the rest quarried day and night over merit and could not be settled. The emperor, staying in the southern palace of Luoyang, looked down from the covered walkway and saw the generals often sitting together on the sand, talking. He asked: "What are they discussing?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Does Your Majesty not know? They are plotting rebellion." The emperor said: "The realm has just settled—why would they rebel?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Your Majesty rose from the common people and with this company seized the realm. Now Your Majesty are Son of Heaven, but those you have enfeoffed are all old friends from Xiao and Cao, while those you have executed are all those you once bore grudges against. The generals are calculating their rewards, and the empire is not enough to give to everyone. They fear Your Majesty cannot enfeoff them all, and they worry that you remember their past mistakes and will execute them—so they are gathering to plot rebellion." The emperor was worried and said: "What should be done?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Who does Your Majesty dislike most among those you have hated all your life, and what everyone knows?" The emperor said: "Yong Chi had old ties with me and often humiliated me. I wanted to kill him, but because his merit was great, I could not bear to." The Marquis of Liu said: "Now if you urgently enfeoff Yong Chi first to show the ministers, when they see Yong Chi enfeoffed, everyone will be reassured." The emperor therefore held a banquet, enfeoffed Yong Chi as Marquis of Shifang, and urgently ordered the prime minister and imperial censor to finalize merit and distribute enfeoffments. When the banquet ended, the ministers were all pleased and said: "If Yong Chi can become a marquis, we have nothing to worry about."

The emperor had already enfeoffed over twenty major ministers, but the rest quarried day and night over merit and could not be settled. The emperor, staying in the southern palace of Luoyang, looked down from the covered walkway and saw the generals often sitting together on the sand, talking. He asked: "What are they discussing?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Does Your Majesty not know? They are plotting rebellion." The emperor said: "The realm has just settled—why would they rebel?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Your Majesty rose from the common people and with this company seized the realm. Now Your Majesty are Son of Heaven, but those you have enfeoffed are all old friends from Xiao and Cao, while those you have executed are all those you once bore grudges against. The generals are calculating their rewards, and the empire is not enough to give to everyone. They fear Your Majesty cannot enfeoff them all, and they worry that you remember their past mistakes and will execute them—so they are gathering to plot rebellion." The emperor was worried and said: "What should be done?" The Marquis of Liu said: "Who does Your Majesty dislike most among those you have hated all your life, and what everyone knows?" The emperor said: "Yong Chi had old ties with me and often humiliated me. I wanted to kill him, but because his merit was great, I could not bear to." The Marquis of Liu said: "Now if you urgently enfeoff Yong Chi first to show the ministers, when they see Yong Chi enfeoffed, everyone will be reassured." The emperor therefore held a banquet, enfeoffed Yong Chi as Marquis of Shifang, and urgently ordered the prime minister and imperial censor to finalize merit and distribute enfeoffments. When the banquet ended, the ministers were all pleased and said: "If Yong Chi can become a marquis, we have nothing to worry about."

Liu Jing advised the Emperor Gaozu: "Establish the capital at Guanzhong." The emperor was uncertain.

Liu Jing advised the Emperor Gaozu: "Establish the capital at Guanzhong." The emperor was uncertain.

Liu Jing advised the Emperor Gaozu: "Establish the capital at Guanzhong." The emperor was uncertain.

The ministers around him were mostly from east of the mountains, and many urged the emperor to establish his capital at Luoyang. Luoyang, they said, had Chengao to the east and Yaomian to the west, was backed by the rivers, and faced Yiluo—its defenses were sufficient. Lord Liu responded: Luoyang does have such fortifications, but the territory within is small, no more than a few hundred li, the soil is poor, and it faces attack from all sides. This is not a place for military action. Guanzhong, however, is bounded by Yaoxiang on the left and Longshu on the right, with fertile fields stretching a thousand li. To the south it enjoys the wealth of Bashu, to the north the advantages of the Hu frontier. With three sides protected by natural barriers, it controls the east with only one. When the realm is at peace, grain can be transported by the Yellow and Wei Rivers to supply the capital. When the vassals rebel, goods can be sent downstream with ease. This is what is meant by 'a wall of metal extending a thousand li, a land of natural treasure'—as Liu Jing said. So the Emperor Gaozu set out that very day, westward to Guanzhong. Lord Liu accompanied him into the pass.

The ministers around him were mostly from east of the mountains, and many urged the emperor to establish his capital at Luoyang. Luoyang, they said, had Chengao to the east and Yaomian to the west, was backed by the rivers, and faced Yiluo—its defenses were sufficient. Lord Liu responded: Luoyang does have such fortifications, but the territory within is small, no more than a few hundred li, the soil is poor, and it faces attack from all sides. This is not a place for military action. Guanzhong, however, is bounded by Yaoxiang on the left and Longshu on the right, with fertile fields stretching a thousand li. To the south it enjoys the wealth of Bashu, to the north the advantages of the Hu frontier. With three sides protected by natural barriers, it controls the east with only one. When the realm is at peace, grain can be transported by the Yellow and Wei Rivers to supply the capital. When the vassals rebel, goods can be sent downstream with ease. This is what is meant by 'a wall of metal extending a thousand li, a land of natural treasure'—as Liu Jing said. So the Emperor Gaozu set out that very day, westward to Guanzhong. Lord Liu accompanied him into the pass.

Lord Liu was by nature often ill. He practiced breathing exercises and avoided grains, staying behind closed doors for over a year. The emperor wished to depose the Crown Prince and establish the son of Lady Qi, Prince Yuru of Zhao. Many ministers remonstrated, but could not secure a firm decision. Empress Lü was fearful and did not know what to do. Someone told her: Lord Liu is skilled at planning strategies, and the emperor trusts and relies on him. So Empress Lü sent Zhou Lü Marquis of Zhoulu, Lü Ze, to pressure Lord Liu, saying: You have always been the emperor's counselor. Now he wishes to replace the Crown Prince—how can you sleep peacefully? Lord Liu replied: In the past, when the emperor was repeatedly in desperate straits, he was fortunate to use my plans. Now the realm is at peace, and he wishes to change the Crown Prince out of affection—this is a matter between father and son. Even if a hundred of us stood together, what good would it do? Lü Ze pressed hard: Plan something for us. Lord Liu said: This is difficult to resolve through argument alone. There are four men in the realm whom the emperor has been unable to recruit. They are all quite old, and each believes the emperor treats others with contempt, so they fled into the mountains and would never, by principle, serve Han. Yet the emperor holds these four in high esteem. Now if you are genuinely willing to spare no gold, jade, or silk, have the Crown Prince write a letter with humble words, prepare comfortable carriages, and send persuasive men to invite them earnestly—they should come. When they arrive, treat them as guests, let them accompany the Crown Prince to court from time to time. When the emperor sees them, he will surely be struck by their presence and ask about them. When he learns that these four men are men of virtue, it will be a great help to the Crown Prince.

So Empress Lü ordered Lü Ze to send men bearing a letter from the Crown Prince, with humble words and generous gifts, to welcome these four men. When the four arrived, they became guests at the estate of the Marquis of Jiancheng. In the eleventh year of Han, when Ying Bu rebelled, the emperor was ill and wished to send the Crown Prince to lead the army against him. The four men conferred among themselves: Those who come do so to preserve the Crown Prince. If the Crown Prince leads troops into danger, the situation is grave. So they spoke to the Marquis of Jiancheng: When the Crown Prince leads troops, even if he succeeds, his rank cannot exceed that of Crown Prince; if he fails and returns, he will suffer the consequences thereafter. Moreover, all the generals who would accompany him are veterans who helped the emperor conquer the realm—they are fierce warriors. Sending the Crown Prince to command them is no different from sending a sheep to lead wolves. None will exert themselves, and failure is certain. I have heard it said that the child favored by the mother is held in her arms. Now Lady Qi waits on the emperor day and night, and Prince Yuru is constantly held before her. The emperor has said he will never place an unworthy son above a beloved one—this clearly indicates the Crown Prince will be replaced. Why not urgently ask Empress Lü to seize an opportune moment and say to the emperor: Ying Bu is a fierce general of the realm, skilled in war. The other generals are all the emperor's old comrades; yet you would send the Crown Prince to command them, no different from sending a sheep to lead wolves—none will serve willingly. If Bu hears of this, he will march west boldly. Though you are ill, force yourself into a carriage with supplies, lie down and oversee them, and the generals will not dare hold back their strength. Though you may suffer, for the sake of your wife and children, steel yourself.

Lord Liu, though ill, forced himself to rise and go to Qū Yōu, where he met the emperor and said: I should have accompanied you, but my illness is severe. The Chu people are swift and fierce; I beg Your Majesty not to engage them in direct combat. He further advised: Let the Crown Prince serve as general, commanding the troops of Guanzhong. The emperor said: Though you are ill, lie down and serve as tutor to the Crown Prince. At that time Shu Sun Tong was Grand Preceptor, and Lord Liu took on the duties of Junior Preceptor.

When the Marquis of Liu died, he was buried together with the yellow stone. On every tomb visit during the summer and winter sacrifices, people would make offerings to the yellow stone. His son, Zhang Buyi, in the fifth year of Emperor Wen of Han, was charged with irreverence and his marquisate was abolished. The Grand Historian comments: Scholars mostly say there are no ghosts or spirits, yet they speak of anomalies. As for the old man the Marquis of Liu met who gave him a book, that is indeed strange. Gaozu encountered peril many times, yet the Marquis of Liu always rendered meritorious service. How can this not be attributed to Heaven? The Emperor said: 'In devising strategies within a tent and deciding victory a thousand miles away, I am not as good as Zifang.'

The four offered their congratulations and withdrew. The emperor watched them go, then summoned Lady Qi and pointed to the four men: I wished to replace him, but these four are his supporters. His wings are now formed—it will be difficult to move him. Lady Lü is truly his sovereign. Lady Qi wept. The emperor said: Dance the Chu dance for me, and I will sing you a Song of Chu. His song went:

The four offered their congratulations and withdrew. The emperor watched them go, then summoned Lady Qi and pointed to the four men: I wished to replace him, but these four are his supporters. His wings are now formed—it will be difficult to move him. Lady Lü is truly his sovereign. Lady Qi wept. The emperor said: Dance the Chu dance for me, and I will sing you a Song of Chu. His song went: