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The Five Sheepskins [Spring & Autumn]
This article recounts the legendary recruitment of Baili Xi by Duke Mu of Qin. It details how Duke Mu, seeking talent, discovered Baili Xi was herding horses in Chu. To avoid alerting the Chu king to Baili Xi’s value, Duke Mu ransomed him for merely five sheepskins, pretending he was just a fugitive slave.…
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Borrowing a path to conquer Guo [Spring & Autumn]
This article narrates the historical tragedy of the State of Yu during the Spring and Autumn period. It details the famous strategy of “Borrowing a Path to Conquer Guo”, where the State of Jin bribed the greedy Duke of Yu with jade and a horse to pass through his territory to attack Guo. Despite…
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The Cranes and the Crown [Spring & Autumn]
This article recounts the tragic story of Duke Yi of Wei, a ruler whose obsession with cranes led to the downfall of his state during the Spring and Autumn period. It details how he appointed “crane generals,” granting them high ranks and chariots reserved for nobles, while neglecting his ministers and burdening the people…
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One Drumbeat, One Victory [Spring & Autumn]
This article recounts the Battle of Changshao (684 BCE) between the states of Qi and Lu. It details how Duke Huan of Qi, ignoring Guan Zhong’s advice, launched an invasion to prove his strength. Facing the formidable Qi army, Duke Zhuang of Lu appointed the commoner Cao Gui as commander. The narrative highlights Cao…
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The friendship that shaped an empire [Spring & Autumn]
This article explores the legendary “Guan-Bao friendship” between Guan Zhong and Bao Shuya, a bond that shaped the rise of the State of Qi. It details their early partnership, where Bao Shuya’s generosity and understanding shielded Guan Zhong from accusations of greed and cowardice. The narrative pivots on the race for the Qi throne…