Book of Shu · Biography of the Former Lord (Liu Bei)

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) <the earlier sovereign of Shu-Han; a historical designation> had the surname Liu, personal name Bei, and courtesy name Xuande. He was from Zhuo County in Zhuo Commandery and descended from King Jing of Zhongshan (Liu Sheng) <a son of Emperor Jing of Han (Liu Qi)>. Liu Sheng's son Liu Zhen was enfeoffed as Marquis of Lucheng Village in Zhuo County in Yuanshou 6. He lost his marquisate over the ceremonial gold contribution and consequently settled there.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s grandfather Liu Xiong and father Liu Hong [弘] served successively in provincial and commandery offices. Liu Xiong was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and rose to Magistrate of Fan in Dong Commandery.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) lost his father while young and supported himself with his mother by selling shoes and weaving mats. At the southeastern corner of their enclosure stood a mulberry tree more than five zhang tall. Seen from afar, its thick crown resembled a small carriage canopy. Passersby thought it extraordinary, and some said it foretold the emergence of a distinguished man.

As a child, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) played under the tree with other boys of his clan and said, “I shall certainly ride a carriage with a feathered canopy like this.” His uncle Zijing warned him: “Do not speak recklessly! You will destroy our family.” At fifteen, his mother sent him to study. With his clansman Liu Deran and Gongsun Zan of Liaoxi, he studied under former Administrator of Jiujiang Lu Zhi, from the same commandery. Liu Deran's father Liu Yuanqi frequently supported the Former Lord (Liu Bei) equally with his own son. His wife protested: “Each has his own household. How can you keep doing this?” Liu Yuanqi replied: “Our clan has this boy, and he is no ordinary person.” Gongsun Zan formed a deep friendship with the Former Lord (Liu Bei). Being older, Gongsun Zan was treated as an elder brother. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) did not greatly enjoy book learning. He liked dogs, horses, music, and fine clothing. He stood seven chi five cun tall; his hanging hands reached below his knees, and he could turn his head to see his own ears. He spoke little, treated others humbly, and showed neither joy nor anger on his face. He liked associating with bold and chivalrous men, and young men competed to join him. Wealthy horse merchants Zhang Shiping, Su Shuang, and the others of Zhongshan, whose fortunes were reckoned in thousands of gold units, traveled through Zhuo. Recognizing his unusual qualities, they gave him substantial wealth, enabling him to gather followers.

At the end of Emperor Ling (Liu Hong)'s <a ruler of the Eastern Han dynasty; his personal name is written 宏> reign, the Yellow Turbans rose, and provinces and commanderies raised volunteer armies. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) led his followers under Colonel Zou Jing against them, rendered service, and was appointed Commandant of Anxi.

A Supervising Inspector came to the county on official business. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) sought an audience but was refused. He went straight in, bound the inspector, gave him two hundred strokes, removed his own ribbon of office, tied it around the inspector's neck, and fastened him to a horse post—

—then abandoned his office and fled.

Soon General-in-Chief He Jin sent Commandant Guanqiu Yi to Danyang to recruit. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) accompanied him and encountered rebels at Xiapi. Fighting hard, he rendered service and became Assistant Magistrate of Xiami, but again left office. Later he became Commandant of Gaotang and was promoted to Magistrate.

Defeated by rebels, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) fled to General of the Gentlemen of the Household Gongsun Zan, who recommended him as Major of a Separate Command and sent him with Inspector of Qing Province Tian Kai against Governor of Ji Province Yuan Shao. Repeated service brought a trial appointment as Magistrate of Pingyuan, followed by concurrent Chancellor of Pingyuan. Liu Ping, a local man who had always despised the Former Lord (Liu Bei), was ashamed to serve beneath him and sent an assassin. The visitor could not bear to kill him, revealed the plot, and departed. Such was his ability to win hearts.

When Yuan Shao attacked Gongsun Zan, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) and Tian Kai stationed themselves eastward in Qi. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) attacked Xu Province, and its governor Tao Qian appealed urgently to Tian Kai. Tian Kai and the Former Lord (Liu Bei) went to help. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) had more than a thousand troops, mixed Wuwan and other cavalry from You Province, and several thousand hungry people gathered along the way. On arrival, Tao Qian added four thousand Danyang soldiers. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) therefore left Tian Kai and joined Tao Qian, who recommended him as Inspector of Yu Province, stationed at Xiaopei. Gravely ill, Tao Qian told his Assistant Officer Mi Zhu: “Only Liu Bei can secure this province.” After Tao Qian died, Mi Zhu led its people to welcome the Former Lord (Liu Bei), who dared not accept. Chen Deng of Xiapi said: “The Han house declines and the realm collapses. Today is the time to establish achievement. This province is rich, with a population numbering a million. We wish you to condescend to govern it.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) replied: “Yuan Gonglu [Yuan Shu] is nearby at Shouchun. His family has produced five Excellencies over four generations, and the realm looks to him. You can give him the province.” Chen Deng said: “Gonglu [Yuan Shu] is arrogant, no lord to govern disorder. We wish to gather a hundred thousand infantry and cavalry for you. At best, you can assist the sovereign, save the people, and achieve the enterprise of the Five Hegemons; at least, hold territory and record merit in history. If you will not agree, I dare not obey your proposal either.” Chancellor of Beihai Kong Rong said: “Is Yuan Gonglu [Yuan Shu] a man who forgets his household for the state? A dry bone in a tomb need not concern us. The people support the capable. Refuse Heaven's gift today, and regret cannot be recalled.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) therefore took charge of Xu Province.

Yuan Shu attacked the Former Lord (Liu Bei), who resisted at Xuyi and Huaiyin. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) recommended him as General Who Guards the East and enfeoffed him as Marquis of Yicheng Village. This was Jian'an 1. After more than a month of confrontation with Yuan Shu, Lü Bu exploited the empty defenses to attack Xiapi. Its defending general Cao Bao rebelled and secretly welcomed Lü Bu, who captured the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s wife and children. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) moved his army to Haixi.

Yang Feng and Han Xian raided between Xu and Yang provinces. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) intercepted and beheaded them both. He sought peace with Lü Bu, who returned his wife and children. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent Guan Yu to guard Xiapi.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) returned to Xiaopei—

—and gathered more than ten thousand troops. Displeased, Lü Bu personally attacked him. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) fled in defeat to Duke Cao (Cao Cao), who treated him generously and made him Governor of Yu Province. He went to Pei to gather scattered soldiers; Duke Cao (Cao Cao) supplied grain and reinforcements and sent him east against Lü Bu. Lü Bu sent Gao Shun to attack. Xiahou Dun was sent to help, but failed and was defeated by Gao Shun. The Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s wife and children were again captured and sent to Lü Bu. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) personally campaigned east—

—to help the Former Lord (Liu Bei) besiege Lü Bu at Xiapi and capture him alive. Recovering his wife and children, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) followed Duke Cao (Cao Cao) back to Xu. He was recommended as General of the Left and treated with increasing honor, sharing the carriage when traveling and the mat when seated. Yuan Shu intended to go north through Xu Province to Yuan Shao. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent the Former Lord (Liu Bei) to supervise Zhu Ling and Lu Zhao in intercepting him. Before they arrived, Yuan Shu died of illness.

Before the Former Lord (Liu Bei) departed, General of Chariots and Cavalry Dong Cheng, described as Emperor Xian (Liu Xie)'s uncle—

—claimed to have received a secret edict concealed in the Emperor (Liu Xie)'s girdle, commanding Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s execution. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) had not yet departed. At this time, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) casually told him: “The only heroes in the realm today are you and me. Benchu [Yuan Shao] and his kind do not count.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei), then eating, dropped his spoon and chopsticks.

He then plotted with Dong Cheng, Colonel of the Changshui Cavalry Zhong Ji, and Generals Wu Zilan and Wang Zifu. He happened to receive a mission; the plot had not been launched. It was exposed, and Dong Cheng and the others were executed.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) occupied Xiapi. After Zhu Ling and the others returned, he killed Inspector of Xu Province Che Zhou, left Guan Yu defending Xiapi, and returned to Xiaopei.

Chang Ba of Donghai rebelled, and many commanderies and counties left Duke Cao (Cao Cao) for the Former Lord (Liu Bei). With several tens of thousands of men, he sent Sun Qian to ally with Yuan Shao. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Liu Dai and Wang Zhong against him, without success. In the fifth year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) personally campaigned east and defeated the Former Lord (Liu Bei).

Duke Cao (Cao Cao) took all his troops, captured the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s wife and children, and also brought Guan Yu back as a captive.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) fled to Qing Province. Its inspector Yuan Tan, whom he had formerly recommended as an Outstanding Talent, welcomed him with infantry and cavalry and accompanied him to Pingyuan. Yuan Tan sent a swift messenger to Yuan Shao, who dispatched generals to receive the Former Lord (Liu Bei) along the road and himself came two hundred li from Ye to meet him.

He stayed more than a month, while lost soldiers gradually reassembled. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) and Yuan Shao confronted each other at Guandu. The Yellow Turban leaders Liu Pi and the others of Runan rebelled against Duke Cao (Cao Cao) in support of Yuan Shao, who sent the Former Lord (Liu Bei) with troops to join them in raiding around Xu. Guan Yu escaped and returned to the Former Lord (Liu Bei). Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Cao Ren against him, and he returned to Yuan Shao's army. Secretly wishing to leave Yuan Shao, he proposed an alliance southward with Governor of Jing Province Liu Biao. Yuan Shao sent him back to Runan with his original troops. He joined Gong Du and the other rebels, several thousand men in all. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Cai Yang against him, but Cai Yang was killed by the Former Lord (Liu Bei).

After defeating Yuan Shao, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) came south against the Former Lord (Liu Bei). The Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent Mi Zhu and Sun Qian to communicate with Liu Biao, who personally welcomed him outside the city, treated him as an honored guest, increased his troops, and stationed him at Xinye. Jing Province's outstanding men joined him in growing numbers. Suspecting his intentions, Liu Biao secretly guarded against him.

Liu Biao sent him against Xiahou Dun, Yu Jin, and the others at Bowang. After some time, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) laid an ambush, burned his own camp, and feigned flight. Xiahou Dun and the others pursued and were defeated by the ambush.

In the twelfth year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) campaigned north against the Wuwan. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) urged Liu Biao to attack Xu, but Liu Biao could not adopt the advice.

Duke Cao (Cao Cao) campaigned south against Liu Biao, who happened to die—

—and his son Liu Cong succeeded and sent envoys to surrender. The Former Lord (Liu Bei), stationed at Fan, did not know of Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s sudden approach until word came that Duke Cao (Cao Cao) had reached Wan. He then led his followers away. Passing Xiangyang, Zhuge Liang advised attacking Liu Cong to obtain Jing Province. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) said, “I cannot bear it.”

He halted his horse and called to Liu Cong, who was too frightened to rise. Many attendants of Liu Cong and people of Jing Province joined the Former Lord (Liu Bei).

By Dangyang, his following exceeded a hundred thousand people, with several thousand baggage carts, moving little more than ten li daily. He separately sent Guan Yu with several hundred boats to rendezvous at Jiangling. Someone said: “Hurry to secure Jiangling. Although your following is great, few wear armor. If Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army arrives, how will you resist?” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) replied: “A great enterprise must be founded on people. Now they come to me. How can I bear to abandon them?”

Duke Cao (Cao Cao), fearing that the Former Lord (Liu Bei) would seize Jiangling's military supplies, abandoned baggage and brought a light force to Xiangyang. Hearing that the Former Lord (Liu Bei) had passed, he pursued urgently with five thousand elite cavalry, traveling more than three hundred li in one day and night and catching him at Changban in Dangyang. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) abandoned his wife and children and fled with Zhuge Liang, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, and several tens of horsemen. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) captured many followers and their baggage. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) turned toward Hanjin, met Guan Yu's boats, crossed the Mian, and joined Liu Biao's eldest son Liu Qi, Administrator of Jiangxia, with more than ten thousand men. Together they reached Xiakou. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent Zhuge Liang to seek an alliance with Sun Quan—

—and Sun Quan sent Zhou Yu, Cheng Pu, and several tens of thousands of naval troops to join him—

—and they fought Duke Cao (Cao Cao) at Red Cliffs, defeated him decisively, and burned his ships. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) and Wu's army advanced by land and water to pursue as far as Nan Commandery. An epidemic also killed many northern troops, and Duke Cao (Cao Cao) withdrew.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) nominated Liu Qi as Inspector of Jing Province and campaigned south against four commanderies. Administrators Jin Xuan of Wuling, Han Xuan of Changsha, Zhao Fan of Guiyang, and Liu Du of Lingling all surrendered.

Lei Xu of Lujiang submitted with several tens of thousands of followers and their dependents. Liu Qi died of illness, and the subordinates acclaimed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) as Governor of Jing Province, administering from Gong'an. Growing fearful, Sun Quan offered his younger sister to strengthen their friendship. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) went to Jing to meet Sun Quan, and they formed close bonds of favor and obligation.

Sun Quan sent word that he wished to take Shu jointly. Some advised agreeing, believing Wu could not cross Jing to possess Shu, leaving it available for Liu Bei. Jing's Chief Clerk of Records Yin Guan said: “If we become Wu's vanguard, unable to conquer Shu before it takes advantage of our withdrawal, our cause is lost. Merely applaud its campaign, explaining that we have newly obtained the commanderies and cannot mobilize. Wu will not dare cross us to take Shu alone. This gives us the benefits of both Wu and Shu.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) followed the advice, and Sun Quan abandoned the plan. Yin Guan was promoted to Assistant Staff Officer.

“The people of Yi Province are wealthy and strong, and its terrain is difficult. Though Liu Zhang is weak, he can defend himself. Zhang Lu is unreliable and may not be wholly loyal to Cao Cao. To expose an army in Shu and Han and transport supplies ten thousand li, expecting victory in every battle and assault, is a plan even Wu Qi could not settle or Sun Wu bring to success. Though Cao Cao intends to disregard his ruler, he still claims to serve him. Seeing his reverse at Red Cliffs, critics think his strength exhausted and his distant ambitions gone. Yet he already possesses two-thirds of the realm. He wishes to water his horses at the sea and parade his troops in Wu and Kuaiji. Why would he sit waiting to grow old? For allies to attack each other without cause would hand Cao Cao the pivot and allow the enemy to exploit the gap. It is no lasting plan.”

In the sixteenth year, Governor of Yi Province Liu Zhang heard from afar that Duke Cao (Cao Cao) would send Zhong Yao and the others toward Hanzhong against Zhang Lu and became fearful. Assistant Staff Officer Zhang Song of Shu Commandery said: “Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army is unmatched. If he uses Zhang Lu's resources to take Shu, who can resist?” Liu Zhang replied: “That is my fear, but I have no plan.” Zhang Song said: “Liu of Yu Province (Liu Bei) <a designation from his provincial office> is your imperial clansman and Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s bitter enemy. Skilled in war, he will certainly defeat Zhang Lu if sent against him. Yi will then be strong, and Duke Cao (Cao Cao) could accomplish nothing even if he comes.” Liu Zhang agreed and sent Fa Zheng with four thousand men to receive the Former Lord (Liu Bei), sending gifts before and afterward reckoned in immense sums. Fa Zheng also presented a plan to take Yi Province.

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) left Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu, and the others holding Jing Province and took several tens of thousands of infantry into Yi. At Fu, Liu Zhang personally welcomed him, and they met happily. Zhang Song had Fa Zheng tell the Former Lord (Liu Bei), and counselor Pang Tong also urged, that Liu Zhang could be seized at the meeting. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) said: “This is a great affair and cannot be rushed.” Liu Zhang recommended him as acting Grand Marshal and concurrent Director of Retainers; he in turn recommended Liu Zhang as acting General-in-Chief Who Guards the West and concurrent Governor of Yi Province. Liu Zhang reinforced him for the attack on Zhang Lu and gave him supervision of the Baishui army. His combined army exceeded thirty thousand, with abundant chariots, armor, weapons, and resources. Liu Zhang returned to Chengdu that year. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) went north to Jiameng but did not immediately attack Zhang Lu, instead cultivating generosity and virtue to win hearts.

Next year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) attacked Sun Quan, who asked the Former Lord (Liu Bei) for help. He sent Liu Zhang this message: “Duke Cao (Cao Cao) attacks Wu, which faces urgent danger. Sun's house and I depend on each other like lips and teeth. Moreover, Yue Jin confronts Guan Yu at Qingni. If I do not help Guan Yu, Yue Jin will win decisively and invade the province, a danger greater than Zhang Lu. Zhang Lu is merely a rebel defending himself and need not worry us.” He requested ten thousand troops and resources [the source parenthetically adds 寶] for an eastern expedition. Liu Zhang permitted only four thousand troops and half the other supplies.

Zhang Song wrote to the Former Lord (Liu Bei) and Fa Zheng: “The great enterprise is about to succeed. Why abandon it?” His elder brother Zhang Su, Administrator of Guanghan, feared implication and revealed the plot to Liu Zhang. Liu Zhang arrested and executed Zhang Song, and the breach began.

Liu Zhang ordered the commanders at the passes to cut off correspondence with the Former Lord (Liu Bei). Furious, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) summoned Yang Huai, commander of Liu Zhang's Baishui army, charged him with disrespect, and beheaded him. He sent Huang Zhong and Zhuo Ying against Liu Zhang, then went directly inside the pass, taking the commanders' and soldiers' wives and children as hostages. Joining Huang Zhong and Zhuo Ying, he advanced to Fu and occupied the city. Liu Zhang sent Liu Gui, Leng Bao, Zhang Ren, Deng Xian, and the others to resist at Fu—

—but they were all defeated and withdrew to Mianzhu. Liu Zhang sent Li Yan to supervise its armies; Li Yan surrendered with his troops. Growing stronger, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent generals to pacify subordinate counties. Zhuge Liang, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, and the others came upstream, securing Baidi, Jiangzhou, and Jiangyang; only Guan Yu remained in Jing Province. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) besieged Luo, defended by Liu Zhang's son Liu Xun, for nearly a year.

In summer of the nineteenth year, Luo fell—

—and after several tens of days of siege at Chengdu, Liu Zhang came out and surrendered.

Shu was prosperous and abundant. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) held a great feast for the soldiers, distributed gold and silver from the city's stores among officers and men, and returned grain and silk [the recipients of the returned stores are not explicit]. He concurrently became Governor of Yi Province. Zhuge Liang was his principal assistant, Fa Zheng his chief strategist, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Ma Chao his fighting strength, and Xu Jing, Mi Zhu, and Jian Yong his guests and friends. Dong He, Huang Quan, and Li Yan had been appointed by Liu Zhang; Wu Yi and Fei Guan were his relatives by marriage; Peng Yang had been rejected by him; Liu Ba had long been resented by the Former Lord (Liu Bei). All received prominent responsibilities and full scope for their abilities. Ambitious men competed in exertion.

In the twentieth year, Sun Quan, seeing that the Former Lord (Liu Bei) had obtained Yi Province, sent envoys requesting Jing Province. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) answered: “Wait until I obtain Liang Province; then I shall give you Jing.” Angry, Sun Quan sent Lü Meng to seize Changsha, Lingling, and Guiyang. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) brought fifty thousand troops down to Gong'an and ordered Guan Yu to Yiyang. That year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) settled Hanzhong, and Zhang Lu fled to Baxi. Hearing this, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) made peace with Sun Quan and divided Jing Province: Jiangxia, Changsha, and Guiyang belonged to Sun Quan in the east; Nan Commandery, Lingling, and Wuling to Liu Bei in the west. He returned to Jiangzhou and sent Huang Quan to receive Zhang Lu, but Zhang Lu had already surrendered to Duke Cao (Cao Cao). Duke Cao (Cao Cao) stationed Xiahou Yuan and Zhang He in Hanzhong, and they repeatedly raided Ba. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) ordered Zhang Fei to Dangqu, where he defeated Zhang He and the others at Wakou. Zhang He gathered his troops and withdrew to Nanzheng. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) also returned to Chengdu.

In the twenty-third year, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) led the generals into Hanzhong, separately sending Wu Lan, Lei Tong, and the others into Wudu. All were overwhelmed by Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) camped at Yangping Pass, confronting Xiahou Yuan and Zhang He.

In spring of the twenty-fourth year, he crossed the Mian southward from Yangping and gradually advanced along the mountains, camping on favorable ground at Mount Dingjun. Xiahou Yuan brought troops to contest it. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) ordered Huang Zhong to attack from high ground with drums and shouting. Xiahou Yuan's army was decisively defeated, and Xiahou Yuan and Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s appointed Inspector of Yi Province Zhao Yong were killed. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) mobilized southward from Chang'an. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) predicted: “Even if Duke Cao (Cao Cao) comes, he can do nothing. Hanchuan will be mine.” When Duke Cao (Cao Cao) arrived, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) concentrated on defensible ground and refused battle. After months without success, desertions increased daily. In summer, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) withdrew, leaving the Former Lord (Liu Bei) in possession of Hanzhong. He sent Liu Feng, Meng Da, Li Ping [李平; identification requires review], and the others against Shen Dan at Shangyong.

In autumn, the subordinates acclaimed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) as King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei) and memorialized the Han emperor (Liu Xie):

“Your servants: General Who Pacifies the West and Marquis of Duting Ma Chao; Chief Clerk to the General of the Left and General Who Guards the Army Xu Jing [the source parenthetically inserts 領]; Camp Major Pang Xi; Gentleman on the Deliberative Staff and General of the Gentlemen of the Household for Military Deliberation She Yuan [射援; the surname's reading requires review]—

—General as Military Adviser Zhuge Liang; General Who Sweeps Away the Enemy and Marquis of Hanshou Village Guan Yu; General Who Conquers the Enemy and Marquis of Xin Village Zhang Fei; General Who Conquers the West Huang Zhong; General Who Secures the Distant Lai Gong; General Who Displays Martial Power Fa Zheng; General Who Promotes the Enterprise Li Yan; and the others, one hundred and twenty in all, state: “Formerly, though Yao of Tang was supremely sage, the Four Wicked were at court. Though King Cheng of Zhou (Ji Song) <Accomplished King of Zhou> was benevolent and worthy, four states raised troubles. When Empress Gao (Lü Zhi) <a Han empress dowager who exercised sovereign authority> governed, the Lü clan stole power; while Emperor Xiaozhao (Liu Fuling) <Filial and Bright Emperor of Han> was young, the Shangguan clan plotted rebellion. All relied on hereditary favor and national authority to pursue extreme evil, nearly imperiling the state. Without great Shun, the Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan) <a founding statesman and regent of Zhou>, the Marquis of Zhuxu (Liu Zhang) [the Han clansman, distinct from the contemporary governor of Yi], and the Marquis of Bolu (Huo Guang), they could not have been exiled, captured, or suppressed to secure the endangered state. “Your Majesty possesses sagely virtue and governs the myriad states, yet has met harsh misfortune. Dong Zhuo began the troubles and overturned the capital region. Cao Cao climbed upon disaster and stole Heaven's balance. Empress and crown prince were poisoned or killed; he stripped and disordered the realm and destroyed its people and goods. For long he has left Your Majesty displaced, troubled, and secluded in a deserted city, leaving men and spirits without a master. He blocks royal commands, obscures imperial authority, and seeks to steal the sacred vessel. “General of the Left, concurrent Director of Retainers, Governor of Yu, Jing, and Yi provinces, and Marquis of Yicheng Village Liu Bei received rank from the court and thinks only of exerting himself in the state's danger. Seeing the signs, he rose in anger and plotted with General of Chariots and Cavalry Dong Cheng to kill Cao Cao, secure the state, and pacify the old capital. But Dong Cheng failed to keep the affair secret, allowing Cao Cao's wandering spirit to continue its evil and devastate the realm. We constantly fear that the royal house may suffer, at worst, the calamity inflicted by Yan Le or, at least, the Duke of Ding'an (Liu Ying)'s fate—

—and tremble day and night, scarcely daring to breathe. Formerly, the Book of Yu honored the ordered kinship of the nine degrees. Zhou examined the two preceding dynasties and established fiefs for its own clan; the Odes records the principle, and its reign endured. At Han's beginning, territories were divided to make imperial sons and brothers kings. Thus the Lü clan's rebellion was crushed and Taizong (Liu Heng)'s <a temple name of Emperor Wen of Han> foundation established. “Liu Bei is intimate flesh and blood of the imperial house, a clansman who forms its protective barrier. He thinks of the state and ending disorder. Since Cao Cao's defeat in Hanzhong, heroes throughout the realm gather like ants to his reputation. Yet his rank is not distinguished and the Nine Bestowments have not been added. This does not secure the state or illuminate posterity. He serves beyond the court, cut off from ceremonial commands. Formerly, during Han's restoration, Administrator of Hexi Liang Tong and the others, separated by mountains and rivers and equal in rank, could not command one another. They jointly chose Dou Rong as commander and finally defeated Kui Xiao. Today's danger exceeds that in Long and Shu. Cao Cao devours the realm abroad and harms ministers within. The court faces peril inside its walls, yet no defender has been established. This chills the heart. “We therefore provisionally follow old institutions in enfeoffing Liu Bei as King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei) and appointing him Grand Marshal to direct the armies, gather allies, and destroy the rebels. Hanzhong, Ba, Shu, Guanghan, and Jianwei shall form his kingdom, with appointments following early Han's royal precedents. Expedients benefiting the state may be undertaken on one's own authority. When success is achieved, we shall submit to punishment for unauthorized action, dying without regret.”

An altar was established at Mianyang, the army arrayed, and ministers took their places. After the memorial was read, the royal crown was placed upon the Former Lord (Liu Bei).

The Former Lord (Liu Bei) memorialized the Han emperor (Liu Xie):

“With the ability of an ordinary minister, I bear the responsibility of high command and supervise the armies beyond the court. I have failed to remove dangers or secure the royal house, leaving Your Majesty's instruction in decline and the realm in adversity. I worry restlessly, as painfully as illness. Formerly Dong Zhuo began disorder; afterward villains ravaged the realm. Through Your Majesty's sagely virtue and spiritual authority, men and spirits responded. Some loyal men rose to punish them; others met Heaven's punishment. The violent rebels gradually melted like ice. “Only Cao Cao remains unexecuted, usurping authority and pursuing extreme disorder. I once plotted with General of Chariots and Cavalry Dong Cheng against him. The secret failed, Dong Cheng was killed, and I fled without a base, unable to fulfill loyalty and righteousness. Cao Cao was allowed to pursue his utmost evil, killing the sovereign's empress and poisoning imperial sons. Though I gathered allies and wished to exert myself, my weakness has produced no result for years. I constantly fear dying and betraying the state's kindness, sighing asleep and awake and remaining fearful at night. “Now my officials cite the Book of Yu's ordered kinship of the nine degrees and the many enlightened assistants—

—a principle adapted by the Five Emperors but never abandoned. Zhou examined the two preceding dynasties and established the Ji clans, relying upon Jin and Zheng for support. When Emperor Gaozu (Liu Bang) <High Ancestor; the founder of Han> rose like a dragon, he made sons and brothers kings and opened nine kingdoms, which finally destroyed the Lü clan to secure the principal line. “Now Cao Cao hates upright men and has many followers, concealing destructive intentions while his usurpation is manifest. The imperial house is weak and its clansmen lack position. Consulting ancient forms and provisional expedients, my officials elevate me to Grand Marshal and King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei). Repeatedly examining myself, I reflect that I have received great kindness and responsibility for a region but accomplished nothing. What I have obtained already exceeds my merit. To accept still higher rank would increase my guilt and criticism. Yet the officials press me through righteousness. “I consider that the rebels remain unexecuted, national danger continues, and ancestral temples and state approach collapse. This is my responsibility, requiring even a shattered head in repayment. If adapting to circumstances can secure the court, I cannot refuse even water or fire, or cling to ordinary propriety and incur later regret. I therefore follow the common proposal, receive the seals, and exalt the state's authority. Looking up to the high rank and generous favor and down to the duty of repayment, I feel deep anxiety and heavy responsibility, trembling as though over a valley. I shall exert strength and sincerity, encourage the armies, unite righteous men, follow Heaven and the time, destroy the rebels, and secure the state in repayment of the slightest part of Your kindness. I respectfully submit this memorial and return by relay the seals and ribbons previously granted me as General of the Left and Marquis of Yicheng Village.”

He returned to administer from Chengdu and promoted Wei Yan as commander to guard Hanzhong.

At this time, Guan Yu attacked Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s general Cao Ren and captured Yu Jin at Fan. Soon Sun Quan attacked and killed Guan Yu and took Jing Province.

In the twenty-fifth year, Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) <Civil Emperor; a posthumous imperial title> assumed the imperial title and named the era Huangchu. Reports circulated that the Han emperor (Liu Xie) had been killed. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) therefore proclaimed mourning, wore mourning clothes, and posthumously designated him Emperor Xiaomin (Liu Xie) <Filial and Mourned Emperor; the title bestowed in response to the report>. Afterward, auspicious signs were reported everywhere, day after day and month after month. Consultant Grand Master and Marquis of Yangquan Liu Bao; Marquis of Qingyi Xiang Ju; Lieutenant Generals Zhang Yi and Huang Quan; Grand Marshal's Officer Yin Chun; Assistant Staff Officer of Yi Province Zhao Zuo; Administrative Staff Officer Yang Hong; Staff Libationer He Zong; Deliberative Staff Officer Du Qiong; Officers for Encouraging Learning Zhang Shuang, Yin Mo, Qiao Zhou, and the others memorialized:

“We have heard that the River Diagram, Luo Writings, and prophetic and apocryphal writings of the Five Classics were examined by Confucius, their signs answering from distant times. The Luo Writing's Measures of Revealing Radiance says: ‘Red, three, sun (赤三日): virtue flourishes; in the ninth generation Bei meets the occasion (九世會備), united at the imperial juncture.’ The Luo Writing's Precious Name and Mandate says: ‘Heaven measures the imperial Way; Bei is called august, holding the covenant, succeeding a hundred times without defeat.’ The Luo Writing's Record of Cycles says: ‘Nine lords and seven heroes contend for the Mandate; people burn bones for cooking; roads are strewn with human heads. Who shall be made ruler? Xuan comes (主者玄且來).’ The Record of the Classic of Filial Piety's Hooking the Mandate and Deciding says: ‘The emperor establishes three; at nine, Bei meets the occasion (帝三建九會備).’ [Translator's note: These compressed prophecies invoke Bei (備) and Xuan (玄), characters associated with Liu Bei's name and courtesy name; their wording remains obscure.] “Before my father Qun died, he said yellow vapor repeatedly rose several zhang high in the southwest over many years, with auspicious clouds and winds descending from the celestial pivot to answer it. This was an extraordinary sign. In the twenty-second year, vapor like banners repeatedly traveled from west to east across midheaven. The diagrams and writings say, ‘A Son of Heaven must arise in that quarter.’ That year, Venus, Mars, and Saturn continually followed Jupiter. At Han's beginning, the five planets followed Jupiter in consultation. Jupiter presides over righteousness; Han's position is in the west, the superior quarter of righteousness. Thus Han's institutions always observed Jupiter for signs concerning the ruler. A sage sovereign must arise in this province and bring restoration. At the time, the emperor at Xu (Liu Xie) still remained, so the ministers dared not disclose it [this is the memorialists' perspective following the report of his death]. “Recently Mars again followed Jupiter, appearing in the Stomach, Hairy Head, and Net mansions. Hairy Head and Net are Heaven's framework; the classic says, ‘When the imperial star occupies them, all evils perish.’ Your sacred name has been foreseen. Calculations and confirmations repeatedly agree; this is not a single occurrence. A sage king precedes Heaven without Heaven opposing him, and follows Heaven in observing its seasons. Born at the appointed juncture, he matches the spirits' tally. May Your Majesty respond to Heaven and the people and promptly assume the great enterprise to secure the realm.”

Grand Tutor Xu Jing; General Who Secures Han Mi Zhu; General as Military Adviser Zhuge Liang; Grand Minister of Ceremonies Lai Gong; Superintendent of the Imperial Household Huang Zhu [the name is supplied in brackets in the source]; Privy Treasurer Wang Mou; and the others memorialized:

“Cao Pi has usurped and murdered, extinguished the Han house, stolen the sacred vessel, and coerced the loyal with cruel lawlessness. Men and spirits resent him and long for the Liu house. With no Son of Heaven above, the realm is anxious and has no model to look toward. More than eight hundred ministers have submitted successive memorials citing auspicious tokens and clear prophetic signs. Recently a yellow dragon appeared in the Red Water at Wuyang and remained nine days. The Classic of Filial Piety's Covenant of Assistance from the Spirits says, ‘When virtue reaches deep springs, the yellow dragon appears.’ The dragon represents the ruler. The Changes' Qian hexagram, fifth nine, says, ‘A flying dragon in Heaven.’ Your Majesty should ascend like the dragon and take the imperial throne. “When Guan Yu besieged Fan and Xiangyang, men of Xiangyang named Zhang Jia and Wang Xiu presented a jade seal. It had lain hidden in the Han River's deep springs, its radiance shining to Heaven. Han was the name of the kingdom from which Emperor Gaozu (Liu Bang) rose to settle the realm; Your Majesty follows the former emperors' path and has likewise risen in Hanzhong. Now the imperial jade seal's divine radiance has appeared first. Emerging at Xiangyang in the lower Han River, it shows Your Majesty receiving its downstream succession and the imperial position. Such tokens of the Mandate cannot be made by human effort. Zhou once had the auspices of the crow and fish, hailed as excellent. Before Han's two founders received the Mandate, the diagrams and writings revealed their signs. “Now Heaven proclaims favor, and learned and talented men present the River and Luo writings and Confucian prophecies in full. Your Majesty descends from Emperor Xiaojing (Liu Qi) <Filial and Illustrious Emperor of Han> through King Jing of Zhongshan (Liu Sheng), with the principal and collateral branches enduring a hundred generations. Heaven and Earth grant blessing; Your sagely disposition is great, divine martial ability resides in You, and benevolence, accumulated virtue, love of people, and respect for scholars draw hearts from all quarters. Examining the sacred diagrams and prophecies, Your name is manifest. You should take the imperial throne, continue the two founders, and preserve the ancestral succession, to the realm's great good fortune. We have respectfully joined Erudite Xu Ci and Consultant Grand Master Meng Guang to establish ritual and choose an auspicious day to present the august title.”

He ascended the imperial throne south of Wudan at Chengdu.

He composed this declaration:

“On bingwu in the fourth month of Jian'an 26, Emperor Bei (Liu Bei) respectfully uses a dark bull to announce to August Heaven, the Lord on High, Sovereign Earth, and the divine powers: “Han possesses the realm, its allotted succession without bounds. Formerly Wang Mang usurped it, and Emperor Guangwu (Liu Xiu) <Martial and Luminous Emperor; the Eastern Han restorer> rose in wrath to punish him, restoring the state. Now Cao Cao, relying on arms and complacent in cruelty, killed the sovereign's empress, filled Heaven with violence, and destroyed the central lands without regard for Heaven's manifest order. His son Cao Pi continues his evil and steals the sacred vessel. Ministers, officers, and soldiers consider the state ruined and say I should restore it, continue the martial enterprise of the two founders, and reverently execute Heaven's punishment. “Reflecting on my lack of virtue, I fear disgracing the imperial position. I consulted the common people and the leaders of the peoples beyond our borders. All said, ‘Heaven's Mandate must be answered; the ancestral enterprise must not remain in decline; the four seas cannot lack a ruler.’ All within the realm look to my one person. Fearing Heaven's clear command and that Han's throne will vanish, I respectfully choose this auspicious day to ascend the altar with the officials and receive the imperial seal and ribbon. Through burnt and buried offerings, I announce this to Heaven's powers. May the spirits accept the offerings, bless Han's house, and secure the four seas forever!”

In summer of Zhangwu 1, in the fourth month, a general amnesty was proclaimed and the era name changed. Zhuge Liang became Chancellor and Xu Jing Minister over the Masses. Offices and ancestral temples were established, and a joint ancestral sacrifice was offered to Emperor Gao (Liu Bang) and those following him.

In the fifth month, Empress Wu was installed and Liu Shan made imperial crown prince. In the sixth month, sons Liu Yong and Liu Li became King of Lu (Liu Yong) and King of Liang (Liu Li). General of Chariots and Cavalry Zhang Fei was killed by his attendants. Angered by Sun Quan's attack on Guan Yu, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) had planned an eastern campaign; in autumn, in the seventh month, he led the armies against Wu. Sun Quan wrote seeking peace, but the Former Lord (Liu Bei), furious, refused. Wu's generals Lu Yi [Lu Xun], Li Yi, and Liu A held Wu and Zigui. Generals Wu Ban and Feng Xi advanced from Wu, defeated Li Yi and the others, and camped at Zigui. The peoples of Wuling's Five Streams sent envoys requesting troops.

In spring of the second year, in the first month, the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s army returned to Zigui. Generals Wu Ban and Chen Shi stationed naval forces at Yiling on both banks of the Yangzi. In the second month, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) led the generals forward from Zigui along the mountains and ridges, camping at Xiaoting in Yidao—

—and opening communication from Heng Mountain—

—to Wuling. Palace Attendant Ma Liang was sent to comfort the peoples of the Five Streams, who responded together. General Who Guards the North Huang Quan supervised the armies north of the Yangzi and confronted Wu on the Yiling route. In summer, in the sixth month, yellow vapor appeared across more than ten li around Zigui, several tens of zhang wide. More than ten days later, Lu Yi [Lu Xun] decisively defeated the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s army at Xiaoting; Generals Feng Xi, Zhang Nan, and the others died. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) returned from Xiaoting to Zigui and gathered scattered men, then abandoned his boats and went overland to Yufu, renaming Yufu County Yong'an. Wu sent Generals Li Yi, Liu A, and the others in pursuit, camping at Nanshan. In autumn, in the eighth month, they gathered their troops and returned to Wu [巫; the county, distinct from the state of Wu]. Minister over the Masses Xu Jing died. In winter, in the tenth month, Chancellor Zhuge Liang was ordered to establish southern and northern suburban altars at Chengdu. Hearing that the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was at Baidi, Sun Quan became fearful and sent envoys for peace. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) agreed and sent Grand Central Grand Master Zong Wei in reply. In the twelfth month, Administrator of Hanjia Huang Yuan heard the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was ill and raised troops to resist.

In spring of the third year, in the second month, Chancellor Zhuge Liang came from Chengdu to Yong'an. In the third month, Huang Yuan advanced against Linqiong. General Chen Hu was sent—

—against Huang Yuan, whose defeated troops fled downriver. His personal soldiers bound him and brought him alive to Chengdu, where he was beheaded. Gravely ill, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) entrusted his orphan to Chancellor Zhuge Liang, with Director of the Masters of Writing Li Yan as deputy. In summer, on guisi in the fourth month, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) died at Yong'an Palace, aged sixty-three.

Zhuge Liang memorialized the Later Lord (Liu Shan):

“I humbly reflect that the departed Emperor (Liu Bei) advanced benevolence and established virtue, his protection without bounds. Heaven showed no favor; his illness lingered, and on the twenty-fourth of this month he suddenly ascended afar. Subjects and dependents lament as though bereaved of parents. His testament looked to the great ancestral line, regulating outward observance and its modifications [動容損益; interpretation uncertain]. The officials shall mourn, removing mourning dress after three full days and resuming it at burial according to ritual. Commandery and kingdom administrators and chancellors, commandants, and county magistrates shall remove mourning dress after three days. I, Zhuge Liang, personally received these instructions. In awe of his spirit, I dare not depart from them and request that they be promulgated for observance.”

In the fifth month, the imperial coffin returned from Yong'an to Chengdu. He was posthumously designated Emperor Zhaolie (Liu Bei) <Illustrious and Ardent Emperor>. In autumn, in the eighth month, he was buried at Hui Mausoleum.

The Appraisal says: The Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s magnanimity, resolution, generosity, understanding of men, and treatment of scholars had something of Emperor Gaozu (Liu Bang)'s spirit and a hero's capacity. Entrusting his whole state and orphan to Zhuge Liang without divided thought was the utmost impartiality between ruler and minister, an outstanding model ancient and modern. In strategic resourcefulness he did not equal Emperor Wu of Wei (Cao Cao), and thus his territory and foundation were narrower. Yet he bent without breaking and would never remain subordinate. Perhaps he judged that the other's capacity could not accommodate him. He competed not merely for advantage but also to escape harm.