This article traces Liu Yu’s rise from a common soldier to the founder of the Liu Song Dynasty. He suppressed Sun En’s rebellion, defeated Huan Xuan, restored Eastern Jin, then launched successful northern campaigns. Eventually, he usurped the throne, ending Jin’s rule and establishing a new era of reform and stability in the south.
This article narrates the Battle of Fei River, a decisive clash between Former Qin and Eastern Jin. Overconfident Fu Jian ignored all warnings and invaded with a huge army. A feigned retreat turned into chaos; his forces collapsed, ending Qin’s unification dream. The Jin won but soon declined, leaving China divided.
Xie Xuan (343–388 CE), courtesy name Youdu, was a native of Yangxia, Chen Commandery (modern-day Taikang, Henan). He was the nephew of the eminent statesman Xie An.