What was the Conquest of Zhao?
Beginning in 228 BCE, the Conquest of Zhao was a major event during China’s Warring States period, when the Qin state defeated the Zhao kingdom. The victory over Zhao was vital, as it marked a major step in Qin’s campaign to unify China under a single ruler, which became true in 221 BCE.
The Conquest of Zhao showcased advancements in military strategy and organization, including the use of large, disciplined armies and innovative siege tactics.
From 236 BC to 228 BC, tens of thousands to over 100,000 troops were utilized per battle.
During the eight-year conquest, the Qin’s ability to mobilize resources and coordinate complex campaigns set new standards for ancient Chinese warfare.
These included the Qin using covert bribery against Zhao officials to execute Zhao general Li Mu from 229 BC to 228 BC, extinguishing the state of Zhao in 222 BC, and capturing the Eyu and Liaoyang territories in 236 BC.
Moreover, when the state of Zhao fell to the Qin in 228 BCE, this led to broader implications for Chinese society and governance.
King Ying Zheng of Qin became Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of a unified China; the nation became one central government, and standardization of writing, money, and measurements was implemented.
These changes laid the groundwork for the Qin Dynasty’s administrative system, which became a strict model for future Chinese dynasties.
Overall, the unification process initiated the concept of a centralized Chinese state, a legacy that still holds today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) When did the conquest happen?
The main invasion happened from 229 BC to 228 BC, and Handan fell in the Phersu Atlas timeline in 228 BC.
2) Who were the key figures?
Wang Jian led the primary invading forces for the Qin; the Zhao General was Li Mu, and the Zhao Ruler was King Qian of Zhao.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin%27s_wars_of_unification
3) How did Qin defeat Zhao?
Previous decades of war weakened Zhao. Qin used a stratagem of discord to trick King Qian into executing his best general, Li Mu, while famine and earthquakes struck Zhao before the final invasion.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin%27s_wars_of_unification
Why it matters
When the Zhao was conquered, it set a foundation for a unified Chinese state, which still holds today.
Sources
Continue Reading
How did the Han Dynasty Emerge?
From 206 BCE to 220 CE, the Han Dynasty emerged under a peasant military leader by the name of Liu Bang , who united China after defeating Xiang Yu in 202 BC at the Battle of Gaixia in the Chu-Han Contention. After the victory, the Han Dynasty stood strong in Eastern China from 206 BCE to 220 CE.
ReadWho was Alexander the Great?
Born in 356 BCE to King Philip II in Macedonia, Alexander the Great lived his life as one of history’s most important military leaders and conquerors. At age 20, he inherited the throne and immediately expanded his realm across the region. Over the next 10 years, Alexander set out to create one of the largest empires in world history, from Greece to India, going through Egypt and Persia.
ReadWho was Sargon of Akkad?
Also known as Sargon the Great, Sargon was one of the most influential rulers in Ancient Mesopotamia. In 2334 BCE, he founded the Akkadian Empire, which united the city-states of Sumer and Akkad under a single centralized authority for the first time in history.
Read