Zhao Gui, courtesy name Yuan-gui, was a native of Nan'an, Tianshui. His great-grandfather Zhao Da was the Minister of the Department of Treasury of the Wei Kingdom and the Marquis of Linjin. His grandfather Zhao Ren was a man of good standing, stationed at the border town of Wuchuan, and later settled there. Zhao Gui was intelligent and insightful from a young age, with a strong sense of integrity. During the chaos of the Xiaochang period, Zhao Gui led his fellow villagers to migrate south to escape the chaos. They ran into Ge Rong as he was attacking Zhongshan, and Zhao Gui was captured by Ge Rong. After Ge Rong's defeat, Erzhu Rong regarded Zhao Gui as one of his generals. Later, he followed Erzhu Rong to campaign against Yuan Hao, distinguished himself in battle, and was made Marquis of Yanle County, bestowed with the titles of General Fubo and General of Martial Valor.
He later followed He Baoyue in pacifying Guanzhong and was appointed as the Earl of Weiping County, with a fief of five hundred households. Zhao Gui's official career continued to advance, reaching the ranks of General of the Northern Garrison, Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, and Commander. When He Baoyue was assassinated by Hou Mochen Yue, his generals and soldiers scattered in all directions, with no one willing to hold their ground. Zhao Gui said to his subordinates, "I've heard that when it comes to righteousness, there are no absolute principles. Those who can live up to it are gentlemen, while those who can't are lesser men. Zhu Bohou and Wang Shuzhi were able to uphold their integrity for a minor favor; how can we, who have received such great kindness from He Baogong, be the same as ordinary people?" With tears streaming down his face, Zhao Gui was filled with overwhelming grief.
Thus, fifty people followed him. Zhao Gui led these fifty people to meet Hou Mochen Yue, feigning surrender, and Hou Mochen Yue was convinced. Zhao Gui seized the opportunity to request the handling of He Baoyue's body. He spoke with fervor, and Hou Mochen Yue, moved by his fervent demeanor, agreed to his request. Zhao Gui took care of He Baoyue's body, then gathered with Kou Luo and others to escape to Pingliang, where they discussed how to resist Hou Mochen Yue. Zhao Gui first proposed to welcome Gaozu (referring to Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou, Yuwen Tai); this event is documented in the "Annals of Gaozu." Upon Gaozu's arrival, he appointed Zhao Gui as the Grand Commander, overseeing the Chief of Staff. Once Hou Mochen Yue was subdued, Zhao Gui was appointed General of Qin, responsible for Qin affairs, while also serving concurrently as the Grand Commander of Dangzhou. He ruled with integrity, earning the love and respect of both the people and officials.
Legend has it that Qi Shenwu (referring to Emperor Wenxuan of Qi, Gao Yang) led his troops to assault Luoyang and dispatched his commander Han Gui to seize Puban (now Puzhou, Yongji County, Shanxi). Our Emperor (referring to Emperor Wen of Western Wei, Yuwen Tai) appointed Yifu Gui as the acting Prime Minister, sending the Liang imperial clan to confront Han Gui. Before they could cross the Yellow River, Emperor Xiaowu of Wei (referring to Emperor Xiaowu of Western Wei, Yuan Qin) had already retreated to the west of Guanzhong. The Emperor was overjoyed and promptly appointed Yifu Gui as the Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Supervisor of the Left, and concurrently as the General of the Right Guard, resulting in a swift rise in his official rank!
At that time, there was a man named Cao Ni who was rebelling in Lingzhou and stubbornly held his ground. The emperor appointed Yifu Gui as the Grand General and sent him to suppress the rebellion along with Li Bi and the others. After successfully quelling the rebellion, Yifu Gui was promoted to Marquis and granted an additional fief of five hundred households. Later, because of Yifu Gui's contributions in supporting Emperor Wen of Wei (referring to Emperor Wen of the Western Wei, Yuwen Tai), the emperor promoted him to Duke of Zhongshan, and his total fiefdom increased to one thousand five hundred households. Shortly after, the emperor appointed him as the Governor of Qizhou Province. However, at that time, the country was busy with wars, and the emperor recognized the importance of Yifu Gui's abilities, so he kept him by his side to assist and did not allow him to take up his post in Qizhou. At the same time, he also appointed him as the Left Chief Historian in the Grand Chancellor's Office and added the title of Palace Attendant.
This Liang Jian decided to rebel in the region west of the Yellow River, and the emperor appointed Yifu Gui as the Acting Commander of Longxi to lead troops to quell the rebellion, which he accomplished with ease. Later, the emperor (referring to Emperor Wen of the Western Wei, Yuwen Tai) recaptured Hongnong and fought at Shayuan, where Yifu Gui distinguished himself with great merit. The emperor appointed him as Palace Attendant, General of Cavalry, and granted him the title of Marquis of Zhongshan, as well as appointing him as the Governor of Yongzhou. Once, during a battle at Heqiao, Yifu Gui fought as part of the left army alongside Yifeng, but they were among the first to retreat. Later, they went to support Yubi, but Qi Shenwu fled. Gao Zhongmi surrendered with the Northern Yuzhou, and the emperor led troops to welcome them, resulting in a battle with the Eastern Wei at Mangshan. Yifu Gui was part of the left army, but his performance faltered, resulting in a total rout of the army. Due to this loss, Yifu Gui was dismissed from his official position, but the emperor allowed him to retain his positions as General of Cavalry and Grand Commander, keeping his original troops. Shortly thereafter, the emperor reinstated his official position and titles, and appointed him as the Vice Censor, adding the title of General.
General Gao Yue and Murong Shaozong of the Eastern Wei Dynasty besieged Wang Sizheng in Yingchuan. Yifu Gui led troops to rescue him, and the armies from the southeastern provinces followed his command. The Eastern Wei used the Wei River to flood the city, preventing Yifu Gui's troops from getting close. Wang Sizheng was ultimately killed in battle, and Yifu Gui had no choice but to return to court. Not long after, the emperor appointed him as the Grand General of the Pillar of State and bestowed upon him the surname Yifu. Later, the Ruru people attacked Guangwu, and Yifu Gui defeated them, beheading thousands and seizing a large amount of supplies, returning triumphantly. After the establishment of the Six Official System, Yifu Gui was appointed as Grand Protector and Grand Minister of Ceremonies, and he was later granted the title of Duke of Nanyang. After Emperor Xiaomin (referring to Emperor Xiaomin of the Western Wei, Yuwen Jue) ascended the throne, Yifu Gui was promoted to Grand Tutor and Grand Chancellor, and he was further elevated to Duke of Chu, with his fief reaching ten thousand households.
At first, Yuwen Gui was on par with the old meritorious officials like Dugu Xin and the founders. When Emperor Xiaomin ascended, Duke Jin Yuwen Hu became the regent, and Yuwen Gui felt that he was a founding hero who had made great contributions, which made him feel dissatisfied and unhappy. He conspired with Dugu Xin to kill Yuwen Hu. On the day of the action, just as Yuwen Gui was about to make his move, Dugu Xin stopped him. Not long after, he was reported by an official named Yuwen Sheng and was ultimately put to death.
Dugu Xin is a person of the clouds, originally named Ruyuan. When the Wei Dynasty was just established, there were thirty-six tribes, and his ancestor, Fu Liutun, was the leader of one of those tribes, rising with the Wei Dynasty. His grandfather, Si Ni, during peaceful times, was transferred from the clouds to Wuchuan Town as a man of good family, where he settled down. His father, Ku Zhe, was the leader of the local tribe and was known for his bravery and heroism in his youth, admired by the northern provinces for his loyalty. Dugu Xin was handsome and good at horseback riding and archery. At the end of the Zhengguang period, he and others killed Wei Kegu, becoming famous. Due to the chaos in the north, he hid in Zhongshan and was eventually caught by Ge Rong. Dugu Xin had a flair for fashion in his youth, dressing differently from others, and was called "Dugu Lang" in the military camp.
Later, Erzhu defeated Ge Rong and appointed Dugu Xin as a deputy general. Following to fight against Han Lou, Dugu Xin rode out alone to challenge and captured the thief Yuyang Wang Yuansi Zhou, and was appointed as a cavalry officer. Shortly after, he was promoted to General of the Cavalry and sent to guard Fuku. Yuan Hao attacked Luoyang, Ge Rong appointed Dugu Xin as the vanguard, and fought against Yuan Hao's army in Hebei, winning the battle. He was subsequently appointed as General of Annan and granted the title of Marquis of Yuande County.
In the early years of the Northern Wei, Xin (name should be included here, the same below) was appointed as the town general of Xinye in Jingzhou, while also serving as the prefect of Xinye. Shortly after, he was promoted to the Grand Commander of the Defense City in Jingzhou, while also serving as the prefect of Nanxiang. He managed both departments successively and achieved remarkable success. Later, Heba Sheng was sent to guard Jingzhou and recommended Xin for the position of Grand Commander.
Following Heba Sheng's attack on the Xiaxi garrison of the Liang Dynasty, they won! As a result, Xin was promoted to the position of General of the Martial Guards. Later, Heba Sheng's younger brother, Heba Yue, was killed by Houmochen Yue, so Heba Sheng sent Xin to Guanzhong to pacify the remnants of Heba Yue. At that time, Gaozu (referring to Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei, Tuoba Hong) had already taken command of Heba Yue's army. Xin and Gaozu were fellow villagers who had known each other since they were young and were very pleased to see each other. Thus, Heba Sheng sent Xin to Luoyang to manage some affairs, but he was soon sent back to Jingzhou by Ambassador Yuan Pi.
Shortly after, Xin was summoned to the capital by the court. Emperor Xiaowu of Wei held him in high regard and trusted him. Later, when Emperor Xiaowu unexpectedly moved west, the situation happened suddenly, and Xin alone rode a horse to catch up with Emperor Xiaowu in Chanjian. Emperor Xiaowu sighed and said, "The General of the Martial Guards can part from his parents, leave behind his wife and children, and travel from afar to follow me. In this chaotic world, recognizing loyalty and kindness in talented individuals is no empty talk!" Thus, Emperor Xiaowu rewarded him with a royal horse and appointed him Duke of Fuyang County, granting him a fief of one thousand households.
Although Jingzhou was occupied by Eastern Wei, the people still remained loyal to our court. Therefore, the court appointed Wei Xiaokuan as the Grand General of the Guards to oversee military affairs in the three Jingzhous, while also serving concurrently as the Right Deputy of the Ministry of Personnel, the Grand Secretary of the Southeastern Circuit, the Grand Commander, and the Governor of Jingzhou, all aimed at pacifying the populace.
Wei Xiaokuan arrived in Wutao, and the Eastern Wei sent Hongnong County magistrate Tian Baneng to lead a non-Han force to stop Wei Xiaokuan in Xiyang. The Eastern Wei also sent their commander Zhang Qimin, leading three thousand infantry and cavalry to flank Wei Xiaokuan from behind. Wei Xiaokuan told his soldiers, "We have less than a thousand troops, and we are being attacked from both front and back. If we attack Zhang Qimin first, the enemy will think we are retreating and will surely catch up to intercept us. It's better to defeat Tian Baneng first." So Wei Xiaokuan launched a fierce attack, and as a result, Tian Baneng was defeated, and Zhang Qimin's troops were also routed. Wei Xiaokuan pursued the victory and captured Jingzhou. The Eastern Wei's governor Xin Zuan led troops to resist. Because the people remembered the benevolence of Wei Xiaokuan, he persuaded them to surrender on the battlefield, and everyone surrendered. Wei Xiaokuan then ordered an attack, and Xin Zuan was defeated and fled back to the city without closing the gates, allowing Wei Xiaokuan's commander Yang Zhong and others to rush in and kill Xin Zuan. This incident is recorded in "The Biography of Yang Zhong." In this way, all three Jingzhous were pacified. Wei Xiaokuan was promoted and became the General of Chariots and Cavalry and the Chief of the Three Excellencies.
The Eastern Wei then sent their generals Gao Aocao and Hou Jing to launch a surprise attack. Realizing he was outmatched, Wei Xiaokuan fled with his troops to the Liang Dynasty. He stayed in the Liang Dynasty for three years before Liang Wudi agreed to let Wei Xiaokuan return to the north. Wei Xiaokuan's parents were in Shandong, and when Liang Wudi inquired about his destination, Wei Xiaokuan replied, "I serve my sovereign loyally and will never waver in my loyalty." Liang Wudi greatly admired his loyalty and sent him off with great respect.
In the autumn of the third year of the Datong era, I arrived in Chang'an. Feeling that I had let down the expectations of the country, I submitted a memorial to the emperor to express my apologies. Emperor Wen of Wei handed my memorial to the ministers for discussion. The military minister and Prince Xuan of Chen discussed this matter together, saying, "The generals on the border leading troops into battle face divine punishment. If they lose the battle, the country will have corresponding punishments, which cannot be avoided. The Governor of Jingzhou, Dugu Ruyuan, was responsible for leading the troops on expeditions, and he marched to Xiangyang and Wancheng, killed the rebel leader Xin Zuan, and sent Xin Zuan's head to the capital. He should certainly be commended for his achievements. However, his accomplishments were incomplete, and he ultimately met with defeat. Holding him accountable seems somewhat inappropriate for the court. However, he only had a few thousand soldiers, no reinforcements, and was outnumbered, making it difficult for him to hold his ground. Since he has already been pardoned, we should not pursue his guilt any further. In the past, the Qin Dynasty pardoned Meng Ming, and the Han Dynasty pardoned Guang Li. They were ultimately able to redeem themselves, achieve merit, and be remembered in history. The current situation mirrors the past, and there are precedents to consider. After our discussion, we request forgiveness for his mistakes and reinstatement of his original position." Emperor Wen of Wei decreed, "Dugu Ruyuan did indeed merit in the battles of Jingzhou and Xiangyang. However, he faced a powerful enemy, lacked troops, had his path blocked, could not surrender to his foes, and had his return route cut off. His actions at that time were a matter of necessity and should not be viewed as a major mistake. Like Wu Qi in times of adversity, he bravely faced danger and persevered, which is truly commendable. He humbly requested to take responsibility and sincerely apologized. If we were to pursue his guilt further, it would be inappropriate and contrary to the principle of leniency. He can be promoted to Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, appointed as an attendant, and retain his previous titles."
Not long after, I was appointed commander-in-chief. Subsequently, I followed the Emperor to attack Hongnong and defeated the enemy at Shayuan. I was reinstated as Duke of He Nei, with my fief increased by two thousand households. At that time, among the captives were my relatives, and I received the news of my father's passing, so I returned home to mourn. After the mourning period ended, I was appointed Grand Commander, leading troops alongside King Yuanji of Fengyi to enter Luoyang. Regions such as Yingchuan, Yuzhou, Xiangyang, Guangling, and Chenliu all successfully submitted.
In the fourth year of Datong, the Eastern Wei general Hou Jing led a large army to besiege Luoyang. I held my ground in Jinyong City, resisting from all directions, and more than ten days passed. When the Emperor arrived at the eastern bank of the Chanshui River, Hou Jing and his forces retreated. Li Yuan and I served in the right army, but we faced defeat, and Eastern Wei eventually occupied Luoyang. In the sixth year of Datong, Hou Jing invaded Jingzhou, and the Emperor ordered me and Li Bi to mobilize troops from Wuguan. Hou Jing retreated, and I was appointed as an envoy to pacify the three counties of Jingzhou.
I was appointed Grand Commander of the ten prefectures of Longyou and Governor of Qinzhou. Previously, the officials there were weak and incompetent, resulting in chaotic governance, and the common people had grievances that remained unresolved for many years. However, since he took office in Qinzhou, affairs were managed systematically and without delay. He enlightened the people with moral teachings and encouraged them to farm and raise silkworms. After a few years, both the government and the people became prosperous, and tens of thousands of dispossessed people were willing to follow him. Because of his high reputation in various places, the emperor bestowed upon him the title "Xin."
When he was seven years old, Liang Jieding, the King of the Chishui Barbarians, revolted, and the emperor ordered him to suppress the rebellion. Liang Jieding was soon killed by his own men. However, his descendants regrouped the remaining troops to continue the fight. He then led his army to Wannian and camped at Sanjiao Pass. The enemy gathered their forces and held firm, so he came up with a plan to go around Chousong Ridge. The enemy did not expect him to come from this direction, and upon seeing his army, they fled in fear. He chased them down to the city gates, where the enemy surrendered completely. He was later promoted to Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince.
In the battle at Mangshan, the main forces were struggling. He and Yu Jin gathered the scattered soldiers and launched a rear attack on the enemy, which frightened the pursuing troops of the Qi state, allowing our army to be preserved. In the twelfth year, the governor of Liangzhou, Yuwen Zhong, occupied Liangzhou and refused to hand over the provincial government. The emperor ordered him to lead Kaifu Yifeng to suppress him. Yuwen Zhong held the city tightly, so he ordered his generals to use ladders to assault the northeast corner of the city at night while he personally led elite troops to attack the southwest corner, taking the city before dawn. He captured Yuwen Zhong and took six thousand families prisoner, escorting them to Chang'an. He was then appointed as Grand Marshal.
In the thirteenth year, the main forces launched an eastern campaign. At that time, the Ruru tribe often raided the area, and the emperor ordered him to garrison at Heyang. In the fourteenth year, he was promoted to Grand General of the Pillar State. Because of his victories in capturing Xie, defending Luoyang, and pacifying both Minzhou and Liangzhou, the emperor honored him even more and allowed him to pass his titles to his sons. Thus, his second son was made Duke of Weining, his third son was made Marquis of Muwen County, and his fourth son was made Marquis of Zangyi County, with each receiving a fief of one thousand households. His fifth son was made Earl of Xiangcheng, and his sixth son was made Earl of Jianzhong County, with each receiving a fief of five hundred households.
He spent a considerable amount of time in Longyou, requesting to return to court, but the Emperor did not agree. Later, a messenger from Eastern Wei arrived with news of his mother's death, so he returned home for the funeral. Coincidentally, the Crown Prince of Wei and the Emperor were touring in the north and stopped by to pay their respects while passing through Heyang. He conveyed his sorrow to the Crown Prince and requested that the funeral be conducted according to proper rites, but the Emperor still did not agree. The Emperor posthumously honored his father with the title of Sikong and conferred the title of Lady of Changshan County upon his mother. Sixteen years later, he commanded tens of thousands of soldiers from Longyou in the Eastern expedition but turned back upon reaching Mount Xiaoban. He was subsequently appointed as the Minister of Documents. Following the establishment of the Six Ministries, he was appointed as the Grand Marshal. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, he was appointed as the Grand Guardian, promoted to Duke of Wei, with a fief of ten thousand households.
After Zhao Gui was killed, due to his connections with Zhao Gui, Xin was also removed from his position. Not long after, Duke Jin Hu wanted to kill him as well. Because Xin's reputation was so significant, Duke Jin Hu wanted to avoid publicly exposing his crimes, so he coerced Xin into taking his own life at home. At that time, he was fifty-five.
Xin was a charismatic and talented leader with a keen strategic vision. When Emperor Taizu first started conquering the world, only the Guanzhong region was under his command. Given the strategic importance of Longyou, he was appointed to defend the region. He was deeply loved by the people, and his reputation spread to neighboring countries. When the Eastern Wei general Hou Jing defected south to join the Liang Dynasty, Wei Shou wrote a letter to Emperor Wu of Liang, falsely asserting that Xin was defending Longyou and refusing to yield to the Yuwen clan, also stating that there was no danger in the western region to intimidate the people of the Liang Dynasty. Another time, when Xin was hunting in Qinzhou, he rode into the city after dark with his hat askew. The next morning, officials and people in the city all wore their hats askew like Xin, demonstrating the high regard in which he was held among neighboring regions and the common people at that time.
His son Luo was originally in Eastern Wei, where he later designated his second son Shan as his heir. Once peace was established between Northern Qi and Western Wei, Luo moved to Western Wei. After Shan's death, Luo was once again named the heir. Luo, styled Roren, was appointed governor of Chu'an County in the first year of the Daxiang era and granted the title of General of the Same Rank.
Shan, styled Fute, was intelligent from a young age and excelled in horseback riding and archery. Due to his father's merits, he was granted the title of Duke of Weining County. In the first year of the reign of Emperor Wei's abdication, he was appointed General of the Cavalry and given the position of Chief of Staff, as well as the title of Palace Attendant, and his rank was promoted to Duke of Changan County. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, he was appointed governor of Hezhou. Due to his father's influence, he was sidelined at home for a long time. In the third year of Baoding, he was eventually appointed governor of Longzhou. In the sixth year of Tianhe, he inherited the title of Duke of Henan County, with a fief consisting of two thousand households. He accompanied Emperor Gaozu on campaigns to the east, earning him the title of Upper Chief of Staff for his contributions. He was subsequently appointed governor of Yanzhou, where he ruled with simplicity and kindness, and the people lived peacefully and contentedly. He ultimately died in office at the age of thirty-eight, and after his death, he was posthumously awarded the titles of Envoy with Authority, Pillar of the State, and Commander of Military Affairs for Ding, Zhao, Heng, Cang, and Ying across five provinces, along with the governorship of Dingzhou.
His eldest daughter was Empress Zhou Mingjing, his fourth daughter was Empress Yuan Zhen, and his seventh daughter was Empress Sui Wenxian. The Zhou dynasty, the Sui dynasty, and the royal family all had three generations of his maternal relatives, which is truly a unique occurrence in history!
After Emperor Wen of Sui ascended to the throne, he issued an edict, saying: "Recognizing merits and accumulating achievements is a common practice of past dynasties; remembering ancestors and carefully handling funeral matters is a grand ceremony of past emperors. Therefore, I am sending envoys to appoint Xun Xin, the Duke of Kaiguo in Henei Commandery. He possesses noble character, outstanding talent, and extraordinary wisdom, serving as a shining light for his family, and his integrity has a profound impact on the world. His grand plans and long-term strategies are beneficial to the governance of the country; his implementation of benevolence and righteousness is all for saving the people from danger. He ought to have showcased his talents at court and achieved great things, but the chaotic times prevented him from receiving any recognition for his merits. I have always been concerned about him; this has weighed heavily on my mind. Now that the world is settled, and the harem is stable, out of respect for the Tu Shan family, I make it a point to honor the exemplary ancestors. Therefore, he is posthumously appointed as Grand Tutor, Grand Chancellor, and General overseeing military affairs in ten provinces, including Cangying, Zhao, Heng, Ming, and Bei, Inspector of Jizhou, Duke of Zhao, with a fief of ten thousand households, and posthumously named Jing." Then, his father, Ku, is posthumously appointed as Grand Tutor, Grand Commandant, Grand Chancellor, General overseeing military affairs in six provinces, including Heng, Cang, Ying, Ping, Yan, and Ding, Inspector of Dingzhou, Duke of Zhao, with a fief of ten thousand households, and posthumously named Gong. His mother, Fei Lianshi, is also posthumously honored as Lady Gong, the Grand Commandant.
Hou Mochen Chong, styled Shangle, was from Wuchuan in Dai Commandery. His ancestors hailed from a remote tribe of the Wei Kingdom, residing near the Kuhuzhen River. His great-great-grandfather was a Marquis of Taigudu. Later, their family became tribal leaders for generations. His grandfather Yun was a gentleman from a good family, sent to guard Wuchuan and settled there. His father Xing was appointed as General of the Palace Guards and Supervisor of the Imperial Forest.
This kid, Chong, from a young age, was bold, skilled in horseback riding and archery, with a steady personality and few words. When he was fifteen, he went to fight Ge Rong alongside He Ba Yue and Er Zhu Rong. Later, he followed Yuan Tian Mu to quell the rebellion of Xing Gao and distinguished himself, being promoted to General Jian Wei. Then, he accompanied He Ba Yue to defeat Yuan Hao in Luoyang and was promoted to Zhi Qin.
After that, Chong followed He Ba Yue into Guanzhong and defeated the Chishui army that had taken over Shu. At that time, Wan Qi Chou Nu besieged Qizhou and sent his general Wei Chi Pusa to attack Wugong. Chong fought fiercely alongside He Ba Yue, defeating Wei Chi Pusa, and pursued them, breaking the siege of Qizhou. He then went to Xichuan, a hundred miles away, and defeated the camp of the bandit leader Hou Fu Hou Yuan Jin. Wan Qi Chou Nu fled to Gao Ping with what remained of his forces, and Chong pursued him with light cavalry, catching up to them at Chang Keng in Jingzhou. Before the enemy had a chance to form ranks, Chong charged into their ranks alone on horseback and directly captured Wan Qi Chou Nu alive! He shouted loudly, and the enemy was so shocked that they froze, with no one daring to stop him. The cavalry behind him also arrived, and the enemy fled entirely, suffering a total rout. He Ba Yue rewarded Chong with Wan Qi Chou Nu's horse and golden sword belt, promoted him to General An Bei, Tai Zhong Da Fu, and Commander, and granted him the title of Marquis of Lin Jing County, along with a fief of eight hundred households.
Later, He Ba Yue was murdered by Hou Mo Chen Yue, and Chong and other generals discussed welcoming Emperor Gaozu. When Emperor Gaozu arrived at the military camp, the governor of Yuanzhou, Shi Gui, was still guarding the city for Hou Mo Chen Yue. The Emperor ordered Chong to carry out a surprise attack on Shi Gui. That night, Chong stealthily led his troops, taking only seven cavalry, directly assaulting the city gates while the rest of his troops lay in ambush nearby. Noticing the small number of attackers, Shi Gui did not take much precaution. Chong charged directly in and occupied the city gate. Meanwhile, Li Yuan's brothers were inside the city and had already learned that Chong was coming, so they shouted in unison from both inside and outside the city, and the ambushed soldiers emerged, capturing and killing Shi Gui. Chong was then appointed to oversee the affairs of Yuanzhou. He later took part in quelling the rebellion led by Hou Mo Chen Yue and was promoted to General of the Western Expedition. Emperor Gaozu also sent Chong to pacify Qinzhou and granted him the title of Earl of Guangwu, with a fief consisting of seven hundred households.
In 535 AD, he was appointed as the governor of Jingzhou and was additionally conferred the titles of Palace Attendant and Grand Commander, and his rank was elevated to Duke. He then continued to be promoted, eventually reaching the position of Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry, Minister of Rites, Grand General of Cavalry, and was later regranted the title of Duke of Pengcheng, with a fief consisting of three thousand households. Three years later, he participated in the campaign to capture Dou Tai, recovering Hongnong, which increased his fief by an additional two thousand households. Four years later, he also took part in the Battle of Heqiao, earning significant military accolades. In the seventh year, during the rebellion of Ji Hu, he led his forces to suppress the uprising. Soon after, he was appointed governor of Yongzhou, while also serving as the Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. In the fifteenth year, he was promoted to Grand General of the State of the Pillar and later transferred to the position of Grand Preceptor.
In 550 AD, after Emperor Gong of Wei ascended the throne, he was assigned as the governor of Ningzhou, and later promoted to Minister of the Interior. After the six official positions system was established, he was appointed as Grand Minister of Works. After Emperor Xian of Wei ascended the throne, he was granted the title of Duke of Liang, with a fief of ten thousand households, and was also elevated to the rank of Grand Protector. After that, he held key positions, including Grand Minister of the Clan and Grand Minister of Education.
In the year 557 AD, he followed Emperor Gaozu to Yuanzhou. That night, Emperor Gaozu returned to the capital, puzzled about the reason for his sudden departure. He said to his trusted advisor, "I remember hearing a fortune teller say that Duke Jin is having a bad year. The emperor suddenly returning to the capital tonight probably means Duke Jin is about to die." So, the news quickly spread. Someone let it slip. The founding emperor summoned his ministers to the Dade Hall to question him. He was terrified and quickly begged for mercy. That night, the guards who had escorted Emperor Gaozu back to the capital surrounded his house and forced him to take his own life. He was given a proper burial and posthumously honored with the title "Zao." Later, after the guards who had escorted Emperor Gaozu were executed, his posthumous title was changed to "Zhuangmin."
His son Rui inherited his title, was appointed Grand General, and later promoted to Pillar of the State. He followed Emperor Gaozu on an eastern expedition, leading troops to defend the Taihang Mountain Pass. After pacifying Bingzhou Province, he was appointed Senior Pillar of the State. He also participated in the battle to pacify Ye City and was eventually appointed Grand Marshal.
Chong Diqiong, with the courtesy name Shile, lost his father at the age of eight. His mother was exceptionally devoted to him and treated his brothers kindly; both at home and in the community, everyone respected him. He was granted the title of Baron of Lingqiu County for his military achievements, overseeing three hundred households. Later, he followed Emperor Xiaowu of Wei into Guanzhong. He served as the Direct Commander under the Grand Ancestor and was promoted to Chief of the Imperial Pharmacy in the second year of the Datong era, and in the third year, he became the Right Guard of the Crown Prince, with his title elevated to the rank of Marquis. He also joined Dugu Xin in a campaign against the Liang Dynasty and quelled the chaos. Afterward, he continued to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the Prefect of Beiqin. In the fourteenth year of Datong, he was appointed as the Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry and concurrently held the position of Grand Minister of Ceremonies. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, he was titled Duke of Wuan County, and his territory increased to a total of two thousand households. Later, he was sent to serve as the Governor of Ying Prefecture. In the second year of Wucheng, he was promoted to the Chief of Jin Prefecture, overseeing military affairs in six prefectures, while also holding the position of Governor of Jin Prefecture. In the first year of Baoding, he was appointed as Grand General. In the fourth year of Tianhe, he was promoted to Chief of Jing Prefecture, managing military affairs in fourteen prefectures and eight border fortresses, while also holding the position of Governor of Jing Prefecture. Shortly thereafter, he was promoted to the rank of Zhu Guo, and his title rose to Duke of Tongchang. In the second year of Jiande, he was appointed as Grand Minister of the Clan and later became the Chief of Qin Prefecture. Four years later, he followed Emperor Gaozu to the east to fight in the war, serving as the Chief of the Second Army. He was later regranted the title of Duke of Wuwei. In the second year of Daxiang, he was further promoted to the rank of Zhu Guo.
His younger brother Chongdi Kai, whose courtesy name was Jingle, was a principled man with a passion for reading classical texts and history. He followed his brother Chongdi Qiong and was granted the title of Marquis of Xiacai County in recognition of his military achievements. In the first year of the Daitong reign, he worked as a scribe in the Eastern Palace. Alongside Emperor Taizu, he captured Dou Tai and won the Battle of Shayuan, and for his contributions, he was appointed General of Ningyuan. He continued to climb the ranks, serving as the Supervisor of the Imperial Guards, the Crown Prince's Son, and eventually became a Commander. In the fourteenth year of the Daitong reign, his brother Chongdi Qiong was granted the title of Marquis of Lingwu County for pacifying Pingyuan Prefecture, and the emperor permitted this title to be passed to his younger brother. He kept getting promoted, serving as the Commander of the Eastern Palace's Imperial Guards, the Right Minister of the Ministry of Rites, and later promoted to the Left Minister, ultimately becoming the Grand General of Chariots and Cavalry and the Equivalent of the Three Ministers. After the Six Official System was established, he was appointed as the Grand Official of the Secretariat. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, he was appointed as a Grand Official of the Ministry of Works, promoted to the Grand Official Equivalent to the Three Ministers, and later transferred to the Grand Official of the Ministry of Censorship, with his title raised to Duke, and then again appointed as a Grand Official of the Ministry of Works. In the early years of Emperor Shizong's rule, he was appointed as the Governor of Yizhou. In the second year of the Wucheng era, he returned to court and became a Grand Official of the Ministry of Rites. During the Baoding years, he was sent to serve as the Governor of Lingzhou, and later transferred to the Governor of Danzhou. He delivered notable political achievements in various regions. During the Tianhe years, he returned to court and became a Grand Official of the Council. In the second year of the Jiande era, he was sent as an envoy to the State of Qi. Historical records indicate that Xiao He was a civil official who valued his reputation, which led him to support Liu Bang, the founding emperor of the Han Dynasty. Li Tong's family had practiced the study of the mandate of heaven and divination for generations, recognizing that the Liu family was destined for greatness, he assisted Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu. Ultimately, they all, like Dayu managing the floods, achieved success and stepped back, like Yao and Shun, they relinquished power, and their contributions were celebrated by later generations, with all the meritorious officials admiring their virtues.
Zhao Gui, a man with loyalty and righteousness in his heart, was the first to embark on a significant endeavor, ushering in an enlightened era, avenging wrongs and restoring honor. The terrain in the Guanzhong region is treacherous, and the Zhou Dynasty established one-third of the country's foundation based on this treacherous landscape. The circumstances of these two figures (referring to Xiao He and Zhao Gui) are very similar and can be compared to each other. Dugu Xin had a high reputation in the southern region, and the people of the Western Zhou held him in high regard. His reputation spread far and wide, and even neighboring countries held him in great esteem. Hou Mochen Chong, with his courageous character and the advantage of war, opened the gates of Gaoping City with nothing but a single rider and his horse, achieving victory in Changkeng. They all assisted emperors with outstanding talent and grand strategies, establishing illustrious achievements and high positions. However, they all ultimately faced misfortune due to their poor judgment of others, which is truly regrettable! Although Dugu Xin himself did not end well, his achievements benefited his descendants, three generations of descendants, an unprecedented legacy! Initially, Emperor Xiaozhuang of Wei bestowed the title of Pillar General upon Erzhu Rong for his contributions in supporting the throne, ranking above the Prime Minister. After Erzhu Rong's failure, this position was abolished. In the third year of Daitong, Emperor Wen of Wei reestablished this position due to the achievements of the founding emperor. Later on, those with significant achievements and high status also held this position. Before the sixteenth year of Daitong, a total of eight people were appointed as Pillar Generals. The founding emperor wielded power over all court officials and commanded the national army. Prince Guangling of Wei, Yuan Xin, was a royal relative who spent his days leisurely in the palace. The other six individuals each commanded two Grand Generals, respectively overseeing the Imperial Guards and bearing the heavy responsibility of defending the country. At that time, their power was unrivaled. Therefore, when people speak of noble families today, they consider these eight Pillar Generals as the founders. Here are the names of these twelve Grand Generals: Imperial Envoy, Grand Commandant, Pillar General, Grand Commander, Chief Clerk of the Left, Governor of Longyou, Junior Teacher, and Duke of Longxi County, Li Hu.
Envoy with Imperial Authority, Grand Tutor, General of the Pillar State, Grand Master, Grand Minister, Prince Yuanxin of Guangling;
Envoy with Imperial Authority, Grand Protector, General of the Pillar State, Grand General, Grand Minister, Li Bi, Duke of Zhao County;
Envoy with Imperial Authority, General of the Pillar State, Grand General, Grand Marshal, Dugu Xin, Duke of Hanoi County;
… (The subsequent list of generals is omitted here)
First, let’s talk about these big names: Zhao Gui, Yu Jin, and Houmo Chen Chong. These three are notable figures, all serving as General of the Pillar State and Grand General, holding incredibly high official positions! Zhao Gui was also titled Duke of Nanyang County, Yu Jin was Duke of Changshan County, and Houmo Chen Chong was Duke of Pengcheng County. Along with the emperor, they were collectively known as the "Eight Pillars of State." (Later, their titles were all elevated; what is mentioned here are their titles during the reign of Emperor Taizu.)
Next, let’s take a look at these twelve generals: Yuan Zan, Yuan Yu, Yuan Kuo, Yuwen Dao, Houmo Chen Shun, Daxi Wu, Li Yuan, Doulu Ning, Yuwen Gui, Helan Xiang, Yang Zhong, and Wang Xiong. These twelve are also Envoys with Imperial Authority, Generals, and Grand Commanders, each a local lord in charge of their own military forces. Among them, Yuan Zan is the Prince of Guangping, Yuan Yu is the Prince of Huai'an, and Yuan Kuo is the King of Qi. Yuwen Dao oversees the military forces of the seven counties of Qinzhou, Daxi Wu oversees the military forces of the seven counties of Yongzhou, Helan Xiang oversees the military forces of Jingzhou, and Wang Xiong oversees the military forces of Qizhou. Each of these twelve generals commands two offices, each with troops, totaling twenty-four armies.
Before the year 546 AD (the sixteenth year of the Datong era), in addition to these twelve generals, Wang Sizheng and Wang Xian also served as generals. However, Wang Xian was in charge of Longyou, and Wang Sizheng defended Henan; neither directly commanded troops. Later, many ministers who achieved great merit were promoted to General of the Pillar State, but they were all of lower rank and did not have the authority to command troops.
Having discussed these six Pillars of State and twelve generals, let’s talk about the people that follow. Although some have inherited their positions, in terms of merit and reputation, they do not compare to these eighteen, so they are not included here.
