Zhuge Liang
Zhuge Liang
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Overview

Zhuge Liang, courtesy name Kongming, was a brilliant strategist, statesman, inventor, and scholar who lived during the turbulent period of the late Eastern Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms era of Chinese history. Revered for his wisdom, integrity, and unwavering loyalty, he served as the Chancellor of the state of Shu Han, founded by Liu Bei, and became a symbol of strategic brilliance and effective governance, influencing Chinese culture and military thinking for centuries to come.
Main Milestones
Birth of Zhuge Liang
181 AD
Zhuge Liang was born in Yangdu County, Langye Commandery (present-day Yinan County, Shandong). His early life was marked by hardship. His mother died when he was young, and his father, Zhuge Gui, a minor official, died when he was eight. This left Zhuge Liang and his siblings to be raised by relatives, shaping his independent character and resourcefulness.
Relocation to Xiangyang and Seclusion
197 AD
Following the death of his uncle, Zhuge Xuan, who had been looking after the siblings, Zhuge Liang and his brother Zhuge Jun relocated to Xiangyang (in present-day Hubei). He chose to live a secluded life, farming and studying, dedicating himself to scholarship and strategic thought. This period is legendary for the development of his strategic acumen. He became known for comparing himself to historical figures like Guan Zhong and Yue Yi.
The Three Visits
207 AD
Liu Bei, then seeking to establish himself as a powerful force, learned of Zhuge Liang's reputation and sought him out. He visited Zhuge Liang's humble cottage three times before finally meeting him. This demonstrated Liu Bei's sincerity and deep respect for talent. Zhuge Liang presented Liu Bei with the Longzhong Plan, outlining a strategy for uniting China under Liu Bei's banner.
Alliance with Sun Quan
208 AD
Following the Battle of Changban, where Liu Bei's forces were routed by Cao Cao, Zhuge Liang was sent as an emissary to Sun Quan, the ruler of Eastern Wu. Zhuge Liang successfully convinced Sun Quan to form an alliance with Liu Bei against Cao Cao. This alliance proved crucial in the subsequent Battle of Red Cliffs.
Battle of Red Cliffs
208 AD
The allied forces of Liu Bei and Sun Quan decisively defeated Cao Cao's numerically superior army at the Battle of Red Cliffs. Zhuge Liang's role in orchestrating the alliance and contributing to the strategy was vital, solidifying his reputation as a brilliant strategist. This victory prevented Cao Cao from conquering all of China and laid the foundation for the Three Kingdoms period.
Entrusted with Liu Shan
223 AD
Upon his deathbed, Liu Bei entrusted his son, Liu Shan, and the future of Shu Han to Zhuge Liang. Liu Bei instructed Liu Shan to regard Zhuge Liang as his own father. This showed the immense trust and respect Liu Bei had for Zhuge Liang. Liu Bei’s words placed Zhuge Liang in a position of immense power and responsibility.
The Northern Expeditions
227-234 AD
Zhuge Liang launched a series of five Northern Expeditions against the state of Cao Wei, aiming to restore the Han Dynasty and unite China. While meticulously planned and executed, these campaigns ultimately failed to achieve a decisive breakthrough due to logistical challenges, skilled Wei generals, and the weakness of Shu's resources compared to Wei. The expeditions showcased Zhuge Liang's strategic brilliance and unwavering loyalty, but also highlighted the limitations of Shu Han.
Death at Wuzhang Plains
234 AD
Zhuge Liang died of illness at the age of 53 during the final Northern Expedition at Wuzhang Plains. Even in his final days, he continued to meticulously plan and direct the campaign. His death marked a turning point for Shu Han, which gradually declined in power after his passing. His death cemented his legendary status, becoming an icon of loyalty, intelligence, and dedication to duty in Chinese culture.