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Ru Er’s web of deception [Warring States]
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In 311 BCE, during the eighth year of King Xiang of Wei’s reign, also known as King Ai of Wei, the state of Wei launched a full-scale invasion of the small kingdom of Wey. Wei’s forces swiftly captured two cities, and the Wey capital of Zhaoge trembled on the brink of collapse. King Si…
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Qin’s final conquest and the Unification [Warring States]
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After the failed assassination attempt by Jing Ke, King Zheng of Qin – now consumed by fury – ordered Generals Wang Jian and Wang Ben to crush Yan without mercy.
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The Dagger in the Map: Jing Ke [Warring States]
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In 241 BCE, five of the six eastern states – Zhao, Han, Wei, Yan, and Chu – formed a final vertical alliance (hezong) against Qin, with Qi abstaining.
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Mao Sui recommending himself [Warring States]
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In 260 BCE, the Battle of Changping ended in catastrophic defeat for Zhao. Over 450,000 Zhao soldiers – many buried alive – were annihilated by Qin forces under General Bai Qi. Flush with victory, Bai Qi sent word to King Zhaoxiang of Qin, requesting reinforcements and supplies to march on Handan and extinguish Zhao…
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The Massacre at Changping [Warring States]
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Following Chancellor Fan Ju’s doctrine of “Ally with the Distant, Attack the Nearby” (Yuan Jiao Jin Gong), King Zhaoxiang of Qin strengthened ties with Qi and Chu while turning his armies toward neighboring states – starting with Han.