Liu Xiu's older brother, Liu Yan, who was known by the courtesy name Bosun, was known for his strong character, generosity, and integrity. Since Wang Mang usurped the Han Dynasty, he had always been troubled by the usurpation and longed to restore the Han dynasty. He gave up his family business, spent all his wealth, and sought alliances with heroes and notable figures across the land.
In the final years of Wang Mang's reign, bandits were rampant everywhere, especially in the south. Bosun gathered everyone to discuss, declaring, "Wang Mang's tyranny has caused the people to be disheartened and disloyal. Now, with continuous drought and ongoing wars, this is a prime opportunity to restore the legacy of our founding emperor and bring stability to the realm!" Everyone agreed with him. Thus, Bosun dispatched trusted aides to muster troops in various locations: he sent Deng Chen to raise troops in Xinye, and Liu Xiu, Li Tong, and Li Yie to raise troops in Wan. Bosun himself led seven to eight thousand young soldiers from Chongling, along with guests, calling themselves the "Pillar of Heaven Corps." He also sent his royal relative, Liu Jia, to reach out to military leaders in Xinshi and Pinglin, such as Wang Kuang and Chen Mu, to join forces and attack. They captured Changju and Tangzixiang, killed the county officer of Huyang, captured Jiyang, and then prepared to attack Wancheng.
When they reached Xiaochang'an, they encountered Wang Mang's former team leader, Zhi Fu, and subordinate Liang Qiu Ci. At that moment, a thick fog enveloped the area, and the Han army faced a devastating defeat. Bosun's sister and brother were killed in battle, and dozens of his relatives who followed him also died. Bosun regrouped the surviving troops and fell back to Jiyang.
Zhi Fu and Liang Qiu Ci pressed their advantage, leaving the supplies in Lanxiang, leading one hundred thousand elite soldiers to cross the Huangchun River, set up camp by the Bi River, cutting off their retreat and presenting a determined front. The armies of Xinshi and Pinglin, seeing the successive defeats of the Han army and the pressure of Zhi Fu and Liang Qiu Ci's large army, wanted to retreat, which made Bosun quite anxious. At this time, over five thousand troops from Xiajiang arrived at Yiqiu, and Bosun went to reach out to them and secure their cooperation, which the Xiajiang army agreed to. This event is documented in "The Biography of Wang Chang." Bosun then held a feast to reward the soldiers, held an alliance ceremony, took three days to rest, divided the army into six parts, and then launched a stealthy night attack on Lanxiang, seizing all their supplies. The next morning, the Han army launched an attack on Zhi Fu from the southwest, and the Xiajiang army attacked Liang Qiu Ci from the southeast. By noon, Liang Qiu Ci's army was defeated, and seeing this, Zhi Fu's army also began to flee. The Han army pursued them relentlessly, driving them to the banks of the Huangchun River, where over twenty thousand were killed, either beheaded or drowned, and ultimately, Zhi Fu and Liang Qiu Ci were killed as well.
General Yan You and General Chen Mao, who served under Wang Mang, heard that the armies in Fuling and Cixian were defeated, so they sought to take advantage of the situation by occupying Wancheng. Bosun immediately deployed his troops and inspired the soldiers, burned the provisions and supplies, and smashed their pots and pans. He then marched forward, encountered Yan You and Chen Mao in Yuyang, fought a battle, achieved a great victory, and beheaded over three thousand enemies. Yan You and Chen Mao abandoned their forces and fled. Bosun then continued his advance and besieged Wancheng, declaring himself the "Pillar of Heaven General." Wang Mang had already heard of Bosun's reputation, and this news frightened him even more, so he offered a reward of fifty thousand households and one hundred thousand pounds of gold for Bosun's capture, granting him a noble title. He also ordered the officials in Chang'an and all over the country to create portraits of Bosun in schools, so students could practice shooting arrows at the portraits every morning in hopes of capturing him.
After the deaths of the people of Fuling and Cixian, people surrendered every day, and the number of people gathered exceeded 100,000. The generals discussed supporting the descendants of the Liu family to follow the will of the people, and many heroes surrendered to Bosheng. However, the generals from Xinshi and Pinglin were more lenient. They were afraid of Bosheng's reputation and were drawn to Shenggong's weakness. So they initially decided to support Shenggong and then sent cavalry to summon Bosheng and inform him of their decision. Bosheng said, "Generals, your intention to honor the royal family is commendable, but I have some different views, as I am not as knowledgeable. Now the Red Eyebrow Army is rising in Qingzhou and Xuzhou, with hundreds of thousands of troops. If they hear that Nanyang has supported the royal descendants, the Red Eyebrow Army may also back a different leader, which could lead to inevitable infighting. Wang Mang has not yet been defeated, and the royal family has already begun to attack each other, making people doubt us and weakening our own strength. This is not the way to defeat Wang Mang. Moreover, few people succeed in declaring themselves kings. Chen Sheng and Xiang Yu are examples. Chongling is just three hundred miles from Wancheng and has not accomplished any military feats. It would be rash to declare oneself king and set a poor example for others, leading future generations to repeat our mistakes. For now, let's proclaim ourselves kings and take command of the world. If the Red Eyebrow Army backs a wise leader, we will all surrender to him together. If the Red Eyebrow Army does not support anyone, we will first defeat Wang Mang, then surrender to the Red Eyebrow Army, and afterward, proclaim ourselves kings. There’s still time. I urge everyone to think this through carefully." Many generals said, "Okay!" General Zhang Yang drew his sword and struck the ground, saying, "Hesitation leads to failure. Today's decision must stand!" Everyone agreed with him.
After the ascension of the Emperor, Bo Sheng was immediately promoted to Grand Tutor and granted the title of Marquis of Hanxin. This infuriated many powerful heroes and warriors, leading to widespread discontent. Later, the rear troops of Pinglin attacked Xinye but could not capture it. The magistrate of Xinye climbed the city wall and shouted, "As long as I receive a letter from Grand Tutor Liu Gong, I will surrender immediately!" As soon as Bo Sheng's forces arrived, the city gates swung open. In May, Bo Sheng captured Wancheng. In June, Emperor Guangwu defeated Wang Xun and Wang Yi. From then on, the Liu Xiu brothers' reputation grew even more formidable.
Emperor Gengshi and his ministers grew increasingly anxious and plotted to eliminate Bo Sheng. They convened a meeting of all the generals to discuss how to proceed. Emperor Gengshi took Bo Sheng's sword and examined it, and the embroidered imperial censor Shentu Jian also presented a jade pendant, but Emperor Gengshi could not bring himself to act. After the meeting, Bo Sheng's uncle Fan Hong reminded him, "At the Hong Gate Banquet, Fan Zeng raised a jade pendant to signal Xiang Yu. Now, with Shentu Jian's gesture, could this be a bad omen?" Bo Sheng smiled but said nothing. Earlier, Li Yibao had been ingratiating himself with the influential generals under Emperor Gengshi, and Emperor Guangwu had always been suspicious of him, often warning Bo Sheng, "This person is not trustworthy!" But Bo Sheng paid him no heed.
Bo Sheng's generals and his kinsman Liu Ji had repeatedly charged into battle, breaking through enemy encirclements with unmatched bravery. When he was attacking Luyang, he heard that Emperor Gengshi had declared himself emperor and fumed, "It was the brothers Bo Sheng who rose up to achieve great things, who is this Gengshi, anyway!" Emperor Gengshi and his ministers were deeply wary upon hearing this and appointed Liu Ji as the General Resisting Wei, but Liu Ji refused to accept the position. Emperor Gengshi and his generals then captured Liu Ji with thousands of troops, planning to execute him, but Bo Sheng fervently pleaded for his life. Li Yibao and Zhu Wei seized the opportunity to persuade Emperor Gengshi to arrest Bo Sheng as well, and that same day, he was executed.
Bosheng had two sons. In the second year of the Jianwu era, the eldest son Liu Zhang was appointed King of Taiyuan, and the second son Liu Xing was appointed King of Lu. In the eleventh year, Liu Zhang was reappointed King of Qi. In the fifteenth year, Bosheng was posthumously titled the King of Qi Wu.
Liu Zhang lost his father at a young age, and Emperor Guangwu, acknowledging Bosheng's unfulfilled contributions, took special care of Liu Zhang. Given Liu Zhang's youth and high position, Emperor Guangwu wanted him to gain more experience, so he first appointed him Prefect of Pingyin County and later promoted him to the position of Governor of Liang Commandery. Liu Zhang passed away after ruling for twenty-one years, posthumously titled the Mourning King. His son Liu Yang succeeded to the throne. In the twenty-seventh year of the Jianwu era, Liu Yang officially took up his position in Qi. In the thirtieth year, Liu Yang's brother Liu Zhang was appointed Marquis of Xiabo. In the fourteenth year of Yongping, Liu Yang's two sons were appointed Marquis. Liu Yang passed away after ruling for twenty-four years, and his son Liu Huang succeeded to the throne.
Zhang Yishan was a talented and well-educated individual with diverse skills. Sixteen years ago, he accompanied General Dou Gu on expeditions against the Xiongnu, achieving numerous military successes. Unfortunately, many people envied his talents and falsely accused him on multiple occasions. During the Jianchu era, Zhang Yishan passed away, and the Emperor issued a decree in his honor and reinstated his son to inherit his title and continue to worship him.
Zhang Huang and his younger brother Zhang Gang, also known as Li Hou, along with their mother Tai Ji, constantly accused each other and exposed each other's faults. In the first year of Zhang and Yuan, the authorities recommended that the emperor strip Zhang Huang and Zhang Gang of their titles, downgrade them to commoners, and exile them to Danyang. The emperor, reluctant to do so, issued a decree stating, "I have heard that a monarch should discern right from wrong and not follow others blindly. They hold noble status as members of the royal family, with well-armed palace guards, luxurious carriages when they go out, and sturdy doors and windows at home. How could they possibly be as those who slander them claim? Although Zhang Huang and Zhang Gang have made mistakes, their crimes do not warrant death. According to the regulations of the 'Fu Xing,' the most serious charge amounts to unfilial conduct. I cannot bring myself to punish them according to the law, so I will demote Zhang Huang's title to Marquis of Wuhu and reduce Zhang Gang's household by three thousand households. Alas! These two young men did not diligently pursue the path of righteousness, were constrained by the law, and ultimately damaged the reputation of the family. Guards! Confiscate the seals and ribbons of Zhang Huang and Tai Ji!" Zhang Huang passed away seventeen years after being demoted, and his son Zhang Wuji inherited his title. The emperor always felt sympathy for Qi Wuwang Bo Sheng, because he had established the significant achievements of the Qi state, but his descendants repeatedly made mistakes, leading to the abolition of their titles. Similarly, the Beihai state also faced a similar fate with its descendants. When the emperor passed away, his will specifically directed the restoration of the titles for these two states. In the second year of Yongyuan, the emperor reinstated Zhang Wuji as the King of Qi, known as King Hui. After fifty-two years on the throne, he passed away, and his son, Zhang Xi, succeeded him as King Qing. After five years, he also passed away, and his son succeeded him. In the eleventh year of Jian'an, the Qi state was ultimately abolished.
Some people commented: A great man's actions are ambitious, with lofty goals and aspirations. Like King Wu of Qi, who sacrificed his family's wealth to give to those with talent, this is not something that just wanderers can achieve! His thoughts were probably to carry on the family legacy, to honor his ancestors, and to ensure the ancestral sacrifices wouldn’t be interrupted. Amid the chaos, he was able to swiftly earn the trust of the enemy and pardon Cen Peng to show his kindness, all of which demonstrate his open-mindedness and generosity. However, his aspirations were too lofty, and his considerations too far-reaching, ultimately resulting in disaster. Alas! Ancient people often used hornets as a warning, probably fearing such consequences! The Book of Songs says: "Be cautious, be cautious, for fate is hard to defy!"
Prince Jing of Beihai, Liu Xing, was granted the title of Prince of Lu in the second year of Jianwu, and he was a descendant of Liu Zhong, the brother of Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu.
Legend has it that the King of Nandong married Fan Zhong's daughter from the same county, named Xian Du. Xian Du was gentle and obedient by nature, well-behaved since childhood, never stepping outside the women's quarters, and was greatly respected by her family. She gave birth to three sons and three daughters: the eldest son was named Bosheng, the second son was named Zhong, and the third son was named Guangwu; the eldest daughter was named Huang, the second daughter was named Yuan, and the third daughter was named Boji. The children’s mother passed away when Emperor Guangwu raised his army, and her kinsman Fan Jugong took care of the funeral arrangements. In the second year of Jianwu, Huang was granted the title of Princess Chang of Huyang, while Boji was granted the title of Princess Chang of Ningping. Yuan and Zhong both died in Xiaochang'an; later, Yuan was posthumously granted the title of Princess Chang of Xinye, and fifteen years later, Zhong was posthumously given the title of King Ai of Lu.
Liu Xing, the younger brother of Emperor Guangwu, served as the magistrate of Gou County when he was young. He was intelligent and strategic, skilled in adjudication, and had a good reputation. Later, he was promoted to the position of Hongnong Prefect, where he continued to excel. After serving for four years, he requested retirement and was recalled to the capital to serve as an official. In the 27th year of the Jianwu era, he officially assumed his position. The following year, following the merger of the Lu Kingdom with Donghai Commandery, Liu Xing was reappointed as the Prince of Beihai. In the 30th year of Jianwu, Liu Xing's son, Liu Fu, was granted the title of Marquis of Linyi. In the second year of Zhongyuan, Liu Xing's other two sons were also granted the title of county marquises. Emperor Xian of Han held Liu Xing in high regard, frequently dispatching messengers to seek his counsel on important matters. Liu Xing passed away after a 39-year reign, and his son Liu Mu succeeded him as king.
Liu Mu loved studying from a young age and was an avid reader. Emperor Guangwu took a great liking to him and summoned him to the palace multiple times. When Emperor Xian of Han was still in the Eastern Palace, he favored him greatly, having him recite classics in the palace and even allowing him to lead the horse when leaving. In the early Eastern Han Dynasty, the legal system was still quite lenient, and Liu Mu was humble and respectful, enjoying making friends. Famous scholars and respected elders from all over the world came to visit him, which led to his growing reputation. By the Yongping period, the laws became stricter, and Liu Mu turned away guests, devoting himself to music and entertainment. However, he still loved reading and often lost himself in it. At the end of the year, he sent a court official with a jade bi to the capital to pay respects to the emperor. Emperor Ming of Han summoned him and asked, "The court has sent someone to inquire about my situation, how do you intend to respond?" The envoy replied, "Your Majesty is loyal, filial, kind, respects the virtuous, and loves scholars. Although I am but an insignificant person, I dare not lie." Liu Mu said, "Ah, you’re putting me in a difficult position! These are merely my actions from my youth. You should tell the emperor that since I inherited the throne, my ambitions have declined, my behavior is lazy, I have become indulgent in pleasures, and I enjoy playing with dogs and horses." The envoy left with the message. His ability to adapt so easily is truly admirable.
At first, after Prince Jing's death, he distributed all his property among his younger brothers. Although the royal family's chariots, horses, clothing, and treasures were not technically permitted for a marquis to own, he distributed them all among his younger brothers and then redeemed these items with gold, silver, and silk. Prince Jing's brother Mu had excellent literary talent, writing "The Beginning and End of the Spring and Autumn Annals," along with several dozen poems and odes. He was also skilled in studying historical books and was regarded as a role model by his contemporaries. Before his death, the emperor even sent a courier horse so he could write ten pieces of cursive script. Prince Jing died after a ten-year reign, and his son, Prince Ai, succeeded him.
In the eighteenth year of Yongping, King Ai Ji enfeoffed his two younger brothers as marquises of the county and the village. In the second year of Jianchu, he enfeoffed his younger brother Yi as Marquis of Pingwang. After reigning for fourteen years, King Ai Ji passed away without any sons. Emperor Suzong felt great sympathy for him and did not dissolve his kingdom.
In the second year of Yongyuan, Emperor He enfeoffed Mu's illegitimate son, namely Zhenxianghou Wei, as King of Beihai, allowing him to offer sacrifices to Mu's ancestors. After seven years in power, because Wei was not Mu's biological son and had also committed slander, he was escorted to the Ministry of Justice, where he committed suicide en route.
In the first year of Yongchu, Empress Dowager Deng enfeoffed Mu's grandson, Shouguanghou Pu, as King of Beihai, who was also known as King Beihai. In the second year of Yanguang, Empress Dowager Deng enfeoffed one of Mu's younger sons as Tinghou. After seventeen years of reign, King Pu of Beihai passed away, and his son, King Gong Yi, succeeded him. King Gong Yi passed away after fourteen years in power, and his son, King Kang, inherited the throne. However, King Kang also had no descendants, and in the eleventh year of Jian'an, the kingdom of Beihai was abolished.
Initially, Marquis Fu of Linyi was also passionate about learning and could write well. During the Yongping period, whenever scholarly events were held at court, Fu was always responsible for presiding over them. Together with Ban Gu, Jia Kui, and others, he compiled the History of the Han Dynasty. Fu's son, Taotu, and his cousin, Marquis of Pingwang Yi, were also very talented. During the Yongning period, Empress Dowager Deng summoned Yi and Taotu to the Eastern Pavilion, where they, along with the attendant Liu Zhen, wrote biographies of notable ministers and scholars since the resurgence of the Eastern Han Dynasty. Taotu also composed one piece each of fu, song, calligraphy, and essays.
King Zhao, whose personal name was Liang and courtesy name was Cibo, was the uncle of Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu. During the reign of Emperor Ping, he was recommended as a filial and upright official and became the magistrate of Xiaoxian. King Zhao Liang took great care of Liu Xiu and his brothers since they lost their father at a young age. When Liu Xiu rebelled, he informed King Zhao Liang about it. King Zhao Liang was very angry and said, "Your nephew (Bosheng, Liu Xiu's brother) has completely different aspirations and methods from yours! Our family is on the verge of destruction, and you are still doing this!" However, King Zhao Liang reluctantly followed Liu Xiu into battle. Upon arriving in Xiaochang'an, the Han forces suffered a crushing defeat, and King Zhao Liang's wife and two sons died.
After Emperor Gengshi Liu Xuan ascended the throne, he appointed King Zhao Liang as one of the Three Elders of the state and followed him to Guanzhong. Later, Emperor Gengshi failed. King Zhao Liang heard that Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu had ascended the throne, so he then secretly made his way to Luoyang. In the second year of the Jianwu era, Liu Xiu conferred upon him the title of Guangyang King. Five years later, his title was changed to King Zhao, and he officially took up his vassalage in the state of Zhao. In the thirteenth year, his title was downgraded, and he became the Chancellor of Zhao. Over the years, he often visited the capital to pay his respects to the emperor. In the seventeenth year of Jianwu, he passed away in the capital at the age of sixty-six years. His son, Prince Jiewang Xu, inherited the title. In the thirtieth year of Jianwu, Liu Xiu granted the title of village marquis to Xu's two sons. In the second year of Jianchu, he granted the title of pavilion marquis to Xu's ten sons.
King Jie Xu, who ruled Zhao for forty years, died. His son, Qing Wang Shang, ascended to the throne. In the third year of the Yongyuan era, Liu Xiu enfeoffed Shang's three younger brothers as marquis. In the first year of the Yongyuan era, he also enfeoffed Shang's four sons as marquis. Qing Wang Shang, who ruled Zhao for twenty-three years, died. His son, Jing Wang Hong, ascended to the throne. Jing Wang Hong, who ruled Zhao for twelve years, died. His son, Hui Wang Qian, ascended to the throne. In the fifth year of the Yuanchu era, Qian's two younger brothers were enfeoffed as marquis. In the same year, the Prime Minister of Zhao submitted a report stating that Hui Wang Qian had secretly married a young wife during his father's mourning period and had even left the Sima Gate dressed in white. As a result, he was stripped of his title in Zhongqiu County. At that time, there was a man named Cheng Jian, a person of integrity and principles from Nanyang, who became Hui Wang Qian's teacher. Cheng Jian educated him with propriety and righteousness, and Qian repented of his past mistakes. Cheng Jian submitted a report to the Emperor, and Qian's county was subsequently restored. In the first year of the Benchu era, one of Hui Wang Qian's sons was enfeoffed as marquis. Hui Wang Qian, who ruled Zhao for forty-eight years, died. His son, Huai Wang Yu, ascended to the throne. After Yu Wang died, his son, Xian Wang She, took the throne. After Xian Wang She died, his son, Gui, took the throne and was enfeoffed as Boling Wang in the eighteenth year of Jian'an. After nine years as Boling Wang, he was made Chongde Marquis after the establishment of the Wei Dynasty. Prince Zhi of Chengyang, courtesy name Jubo, was the cousin of Emperor Guangwu, Liu Xiu, and the son of Chongling Kanghou Liu Chang.
My great-grandfather was named Liu Mai. During the Han Dynasty, he was a ruler known as the King of Changsha, who bestowed upon him the title of Marquis of Chongling in Lingling Township. After my great-grandfather passed away, my grandfather, Liu Xiongqu, inherited the title. After my grandfather passed away, my father, Liu Ren, inherited the marquis title. Due to the low-lying and humid terrain of Chongling, with a heavy presence of miasma in the mountains and forests, my father wrote to request a reduction of his fief and permission to relocate. In the fourth year of the Chu Yuan era under Emperor Yuan of Han, my father's fiefdom was relocated to Baishui Township in Nanyang, but the region continued to be known as Chongling. Therefore, my father moved there with his younger brother Liu Hui, the Commandant of Julu, and other family members. Upon my father's passing, I inherited the title. I strive to be modest, frugal, and generous, distributing the gold and silver treasures my father left behind to my brothers. The provincial governor praised my virtuous deeds and appointed me as the Commandant of Lujiang. More than a year later, my cousin Liu Chong, the Marquis of Anzhong, led a rebellion. Wang Mang, fearing the Liu clan, summoned me to Chang'an, but later permitted me to return.
Earlier, during the reign of Emperor Ping of Han, I went to the capital with Liu Chong to meet the emperor and participate together in the Mingtang sacrifice. Liu Chong saw that Wang Mang was about to endanger the Han Dynasty, so he privately said to me, "Duke An of Han is monopolizing power; the ministers dared not voice their concerns, and the country is about to perish! The Empress Dowager is old, and the emperor is young. Wasn't the purpose of Emperor Gaozu's enfeoffment of his descendants to prevent this kind of situation?" I strongly agreed with him. Later, Liu Chong's rebellion failed, and I was deeply afraid and sought to find support, arranging for my son Liu Zhi to marry the daughter of Marquis Zhai Xuan of Gaoling. Unexpectedly, Zhai Xuan's younger brother also rebelled and attempted to attack Wang Mang, leading to Zhai Xuan's daughter being captured by Nanyang officials, and my son Liu Zhi was imprisoned as a result. I quickly wrote a letter of apology, expressing my willingness to lead my son, brothers, and family into battle at the forefront. At that time, Wang Mang had just become the regent and wanted to appease the imperial family, so he did not punish me. However, later Wang Mang usurped the throne, and all the Liu clan members were demoted to commoners, only enjoying the salary of a minor noble, and their titles were later revoked. After my death, my son Liu Zhi was also stripped of his title and never held an official office again.
My son Liu Zhi was the legitimate son of the former Marquis, honest and loyal, respected by the members of the imperial family. When Emperor Guangwu launched his campaign, my son and his brothers joined the military, but Zhen Fu, the Prefect, captured their entire family and imprisoned them in Wancheng. After the defeat of the Han army in Xiaochang'an, my son risked his life to return to Jiyang, only to find that his mother and siblings had been killed by Zhen Fu. After Emperor Gengshi ascended the throne, he appointed my son as the Grand Preceptor General and restored his Marquis of Chongling title. Later, he followed Emperor Guangwu into Guanzhong and was granted the title of King of Dingtao. He also led the army to defeat Liu Ying in Linjing.
After Liu Zhi fled to Luoyang following the surrender of Emperor Gengshi to the Red Eyebrow Army, he secretly made his way to Luoyang. At that time, he was the first royal family member to reach Luoyang, and Emperor Guangwu was very pleased to see him. In the second year of Jianwu, he was granted the title of Prince of Chengyang, and the emperor rewarded him with a mount, imperial goods, vehicles, and clothing. His father Liu Chang was posthumously honored with the title of Marquis of Kang. In the eleventh year, Liu Zhi fell ill and handed over the seal and ribbon of the Prince of Chengyang, hoping to worship his ancestors as a marquis. Emperor Guangwu personally visited him to check on his condition. Liu Zhi passed away at the age of forty-three, with the posthumous title of Duke of Gong. He was ultimately not appointed to his fief and was buried in Beimang, just north of Luoyang.
In the thirteenth year of Jianwu, Liu Zhi's legitimate son Liu Ping was granted the title of Marquis of Caiyang, in charge of honoring Liu Zhi; Liu Ping's brother Liu Jian was granted the title of Marquis of Gaoxiang. In the second year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu designated the tombs of his ancestors as Changling, appointing a steward to oversee it; it was later renamed Zhangling, which later resulted in Chongling being renamed Zhangling County. In the eighteenth year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu built temples for the Marquis of Kao (Liu Xiu's father) and the Marquis of Kang (Liu Chang), comparable in scale to imperial tombs, and appointed a steward to oversee them. Emperor Guangwu ordered the temples of the Marquises of Jie and Dai in Lingling Commandery to conduct five sacrifices each year during spring, autumn, winter, summer, and the twelfth month, and appointed both a steward and an assistant.
Liu Ping was stripped of his title due to his close ties with various kings. In the fifth year of Yongping, Emperor Ming reinstated Liu Ping as the Marquis of Jingling. After Liu Ping's death, his son Liu Zhen inherited the title; after Liu Zhen's death, his son Liu Yu inherited the title; after Liu Yu's death, his son Liu Jia inherited the title. Prince Liu She of Sishui, styled Jingsun, was the patriarch of Emperor Guangwu. His son Liu Zhong shared a close bond with Emperor Guangwu since childhood. During the Han army uprising, Liu Zhong initially followed Tang Zi, but later deceived and assassinated the Prefect of Huyang. After Emperor Gengshi established his rule, Liu She followed him to Guanzhong and was granted the title of King of Yuanshi, with Liu Zhong serving as an attendant. After the failure of Emperor Gengshi, Liu She and Liu Zhong fled to Luoyang together. In the second year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu appointed Liu She as Prince of Sishui and Liu Zhong as Prince of Zichuan. In the tenth year of Jianwu, Liu She died, and Emperor Guangwu appointed his youngest son Liu Chan as Marquis of Tangxi, to take care of Liu She's mother. Liu Zhong, consumed by grief over his father's death, died after crying for twenty-eight days. Emperor Guangwu appointed Liu Zhong's eldest son Liu Zhu as Marquis of Qi, to conduct memorial rites for Liu Zhong; he also appointed Liu Zhong's son Liu Feng as Marquis of Quyang. Liu Mao, a cousin of Liu She, rebelled at the age of eighteen during the Han army uprising, declaring himself Liu Shizhi, and gathered a large force, claiming the title of Yanxin General. He captured Yingchuan and Runan, commanding an army of over ten thousand. When Emperor Guangwu arrived in Henan, Liu Mao surrendered with his troops and was made King of Zhongshan. In the thirteenth year of Jianwu, all royal family members who were previously appointed as kings were re-designated as marquises, and Liu Mao was changed to Marquis of Rang. Kuang Mao also joined the rebellion alongside the Han army. In the second year of Jianwu, he was appointed Marquis of Yichun. He was humble and low-key, and during the Yongping era, he was appointed Director of the Imperial Clan. His son Fu succeeded him and was appointed Marquis of Chaoyang.
Fu's younger brother, Shang, became the General of the West in the Yongyuan era. The title of Fu was passed on to his grandson, Hu, who had no sons, so the title became extinct. During the Yanguang period, Hu's cousin Gui had an illicit relationship with Bo Rong, the daughter of Wang Sheng, the wet nurse of Emperor An. Consequently, Hu married Bo Rong and inherited her father's title, being granted the title of Marquis of Chaoyang and eventually rising to the rank of Attendant. Later, after Wang Sheng fell from grace, Hu's title was demoted to the title of Marquis of Ting.
Ancheng Xiaohou, with the courtesy name Ziqin, was a distant relative of Emperor Guangwu. His grandfather, named Li, had served as the Administrator of Cangwu. Ziqin lost both his parents at a young age and received compensation from the court. His brother Xian was pursued and killed by the authorities for seeking revenge. Ziqin sold all his family's properties, squandered his inheritance alongside his brother's son, Xin, and recruited a group of people to take revenge on the authorities, only to end up as outlaws before eventually receiving a pardon. When Bosheng led a rebellion, Ziqin joined him to attack various county towns.
After the establishment of political power by Emperor Gengshi, he was granted the title of Guanglu Xun, and then appointed as Marquis of Guanghan. After Boshi's death, Ci was appointed as Grand Minister of State and led the troops in an attack on Runan. Before Runan could be pacified, Emperor Gengshi appointed Xin as Grand General of Fervent Might to replace Ci in attacking Runan. Ci and Emperor Gengshi arrived in Luoyang together. Emperor Gengshi wanted to send a trusted general to pacify Hebei, but was unsure whom to send. Ci said that among the various families, only Wenshu (Emperor Guangwu) was suitable. Grand Marshal Zhu Wei and others disagreed, and Emperor Gengshi hesitated, but Ci strongly urged him. Emperor Gengshi then appointed Emperor Guangwu as Grand Marshal to lead the army across the Yellow River. On the same day, Ci was appointed as Prime Minister, entering Guanzhong first, tasked with repairing ancestral temples and palaces. Later, he welcomed Emperor Gengshi to move the capital to Chang'an, and Ci was appointed as King of Wan, serving as former Grand Marshal, and entrusted with pacifying the eastern regions. In the spring of the second year, Ci returned to Wan country, commanding six divisions of troops. Later, the Chimei army overthrew Emperor Gengshi, and the six divisions under Ci's command gradually defected. He left Wan and fled to Baoyuyang to take refuge. Hearing that Emperor Guangwu had ascended the throne, he went to Wuguan in the west to welcome Emperor Gengshi's wife and children, and then went to Luoyang together. Emperor Guangwu greatly appreciated his loyalty, and in the second year of Jianwu, he granted him the title of Marquis Shen. Thirteen years later, his fief and population were increased, officially appointing him as Marquis Ancheng and enabling him to hold an official position in the court. Because Emperor Guangwu found him reliable and trustworthy, he treated him exceptionally well, often hosting private banquets for him, frequently visiting his home, and giving him many rewards. Every time he received a reward, he would share it with his old friends, never keeping it for himself. Emperor Guangwu also built a tomb and ancestral hall for him, established management personnel and guards, with specifications equivalent to those of Marquis Xiaohou of Chongling. He passed away in the twenty-eighth year of the Jianwu era, and his son Min succeeded him in the title.
In the thirtieth year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu once more appointed Min's brother Song as the Marquis of Bainiu. Later, due to his involvement in the rebellion in the Chu territory, his title was stripped of him. After Min's death, his son Shang inherited the title and was later made the Marquis of Bainiu. After Shang's death, his son Chang inherited the title.
Initially, Shun followed Emperor Gengshi in quelling the rebellion in the Runan region and was appointed as the King of Ruyin. Later, he led troops to pacify the Jiangnan region and occupied Yuzhang. After Emperor Guangwu took the throne, he was defeated by Zhang Long, the Governor of Guiyang, and surrendered in Luoyang; he was appointed as the Marquis of Ruyin. In the thirteenth year of Yongping, his title was also revoked due to his involvement in the rebellion in the Chu territory.
Chengwu Xiaohou, named Shun, also known as Pingzhong, was Emperor Guangwu's cousin. His father Qing was the half-brother of Chong, the Marquis of Chongling. Shun and Emperor Guangwu hailed from the same hometown and had a good relationship since childhood.
After Emperor Gengshi ascended the throne, he appointed Qing as the King of Yan and Shun as the General of Tiger Teeth. Later, after Emperor Gengshi capitulated to the Chimei army, Qing was killed by the chaotic army, and Shun secretly went to seek refuge with Emperor Guangwu, being made the Governor of Nanyang. In the second year of Jianwu, he was appointed as the Marquis of Chengwu, with the largest territory and population among the vassals, collecting more taxes than other vassals of the imperial family. In the eighth year of Jianwu, he defeated the rebel army in Liu'an and was appointed as the Governor of Liu'an. Several years later, Emperor Guangwu wanted to summon him back to the court, but officials and the people all petitioned to keep him. He passed away in the eleventh year of Jianwu, and Emperor Guangwu sent envoys to escort his coffin and personally mourned him. His son Zun inherited his title, but later, because of his close ties with the princes, he was demoted to the Marquis of Duanshi. After Zun's death, his son Yan inherited the title. After Yan died without leaving a son, the title was revoked. In the tenth year of Yongping, Emperor Xianzong went to Zhangling to pay his respects and, recalling past favors, granted titles of village marquises to Shun's three grandsons.
At first, Shun's uncle Hong married a woman of the Fan family, who was a cousin of the Empress Dowager. They had two sons: Min and Guo. They accompanied their mother to Chang'an under Emperor Guangwu. In the second year of Jianwu, they arrived in Luoyang, and Emperor Guangwu granted Min the title of Marquis of Ganli and Guo the title of Marquis of Yiyang. Min was knowledgeable and talented, of good character, and achieved the rank of Chief of the Yueqi Cavalry early in the Yongping era.
Hong's younger brother, Liang, was a famous knight-errant. In the first year of Gengshi, he gathered troops in Yuzhang, planning to attack Jiangdong, and proclaimed himself "Grand General of the Han," but succumbed to a sudden illness.
Shun's maternal uncle Sun Jia was a kinsman of Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu. His father Sun Xian was the younger brother of Marquis Liu Chang of Chongling. Sun Jia lost his father when he was young and was known for his kindness and good heart. Lord Nandun treated him as his own son. Later, he and Bo Sheng traveled to Chang'an to study the "Book of Documents" and the "Spring and Autumn Annals."
When chaos engulfed the world, various rebel armies rose up. Sun Jia followed Emperor Gengshi to fight battles in all directions. The Han forces suffered a defeat at Xiaochang'an, and Sun Jia's wife was killed in the aftermath. After Emperor Gengshi ascended the throne, he appointed Sun Jia as a lieutenant general. Upon capturing Wancheng, he was granted the title of Marquis of Xingde, and later promoted to Grand General. He defeated Yan Cen at Guanjun and captured him. After Emperor Gengshi relocated the capital to Chang'an, he appointed Sun Jia as Prince of Hanzhong and Grand General of Fuwei, sending him to govern Hanzhong and establish the capital at Nanzheng, commanding an army numbering in the tens of thousands. In the second year of Jianwu, Yan Cen rebelled again and attacked Hanzhong, besieging Nanzheng. Sun Jia was defeated and forced to flee. Yan Cen occupied Hanzhong and advanced to Wudu, only to be defeated by the loyalist Li Bao. Yan Cen fled to Tianshui, and Gongsun Shu sent General Hou Dan to attack Nanzheng. Sun Jia gathered his scattered troops and rallied defeated generals, amassing tens of thousands of troops, appointing Li Bao as his advisor. He marched south from Wudu to attack Hou Dan, but encountered setbacks and retreated to Hechi and Xiabian. He fought several battles against Yan Cen, who retreated north through Sanguan and reached Chencang. Sun Jia pursued and defeated him. Emperor Gengshi's Prince Deng Liao Zhan led 180,000 Chimei troops to attack Sun Jia. Sun Jia fought them at the Gu Valley, secured a decisive victory, personally took down Liao Zhan, and then arrived at Yunyang, where he set up camp at the Gu Valley.
Li Bao and others heard that Deng Yu was going on a western expedition, so they gathered troops to secure themselves and watched the outcome of the battle. Emperor Guangwu heard about this and said to Deng Yu, "Sun Jia has always been cautious and upright, and had a good relationship with me when he was young. It must be those frivolous folks in Chang'an who led him astray." Deng Yu followed Emperor Guangwu's instructions, and Sun Jia went to Shexian to meet Deng Yu. In the third year of Jianwu, Sun Jia arrived in Luoyang, participated in the war, and was granted the title of prefect of Qiancheng. In the sixth year of Jianwu, he fell ill, wrote a letter requesting retirement, and was summoned to the capital. In the thirteenth year of Jianwu, he was titled the Marquis of Shunyang. In the autumn, Sun Jia's son, Sun Qiang, was titled the Marquis of Huangli. In the fifteenth year of Jianwu, Sun Jia passed away. His son, Sun Can, inherited the title, but later committed a crime and was reduced to the Marquis of Nanxiang. In the Yongping period, Sun Can served as the Gate Captain. After Sun Can's death, his son, Sun Xun, inherited the title. After Sun Xun's death, his son, Sun Zhang, inherited the title.
Speaking of the Prince of Qi, his presence was steady and powerful, like a weapon of justice riding the wind, unstoppable! It's really unexpected how this defeat came so suddenly; it's simply fate playing tricks on us, catching them off guard. The Prince of Chengyang responded early, and King Zhaoxiao came to support later, but it was too late. The three princes from the Sishui region, some out of gratitude, some for personal gain, all eventually joined in, and the outcome can only be left to fate.
This praise is truly apt! The fall of the Qi kingdom is truly lamentable. Who would have thought that the once-mighty Qi kingdom would fall to such a state? This includes factors from the Prince of Qi himself, as well as external influences. The timely response of the Prince of Chengyang and King Zhaoxiao, although they couldn't change the final outcome, demonstrated their loyalty and sense of duty. As for the three princes from the Sishui region, their involvement rendered this conflict even more complex and unpredictable.
Overall, the fall of the Qi state was a complicated affair marked by helplessness and regret. This poem succinctly captures the causes, course, and outcome of the war, reflecting the author's sorrow over Qi's fate. "The poem states: Qi's martial strength was impressive, and noble weapons soared with the wind. In a rush and without a strategy, we lost our divine craftsmanship. Early on, there was cooperation in Chengyang, and later Zhao Xiaowen joined. Three lords of the Si River, some favored and some recognized for their merit." These sixteen characters encapsulated the sweeping changes of history into a grand historical tapestry.
