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Xiao He (?–193 BCE) was a prominent statesman in the early Western Han dynasty. He was born in Zhongyang Village, Fengyi, Pei County (in present-day Feng County, Jiangsu). During the Qin dynasty, he served as a low-ranking clerk in the Pei County government.
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Duke Ling of Wei asked Confucius about military formations. Confucius replied, “I have heard about matters of ritual vessels and sacrifices; as for military affairs, I have never studied them.” The next day, he left Wei.
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Zilu said, “Duke Huan of Qi killed Prince Jiu; Shao Hu died for him, but Guan Zhong did not.” He added, “Was he not humane?”The Master replied, “It was through Guan Zhong’s efforts that Duke Huan convened the feudal lords nine times without resorting to war chariots. Wasn’t he humane! Wasn’t he humane!”
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The Master said, “In drafting official documents [or diplomatic proclamations], Bi Chen would first compose a draft; Shi Shu would then discuss and revise it; Xing Ren Zi Yu would polish the wording; and Dong Li Zi Chan would finally refine and finalize it.”
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Among Confucius’s disciples, each excelled in different areas: Yan Yuan, Min Ziqian, Ran Boniu, and Zhong Gong stood out in moral character; Zai Wo and Zi Gong were gifted in speech (diplomatic eloquence and debate); Ran You and Ji Lu (Zilu) were skilled in state affairs; and Zi You and Zi Xia excelled in…
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Introduction: This article chronicles the legendary rise of King Goujian of Yue, the last hegemon of the Spring and Autumn period. It details his strategy of enduring humiliation after defeat, including his captivity in Wu and his subsequent use of statecraft to destroy his rival. The narrative highlights key tactics like the “Poisoned Grain”…