Yuan Ang, whose courtesy name was Si. His father was from the state of Chu and used to be a highwayman. Later, he was relocated to Anling. During the reign of Empress Dowager Gao, Yuan Ang worked under Lv Lu. When Emperor Xiao Wen ascended to the throne, Yuan Ang's brother Kuai recommended him to become a minor official.
Marquis Jiang became the Prime Minister, and after attending court, he strutted around like a peacock. The Emperor respected him greatly and always watched him leave. Yuan Ang stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, what do you think of the Prime Minister?" The Emperor replied, "He is a true servant of the state!" Yuan Ang said, "Marquis Jiang is at most a meritorious official, not a true servant of the state. A true servant of the state is someone whose fate is inextricably linked to the nation's. When the country prospers, he prospers; when the country declines, he declines. Think about the time when Empress Lv was in power; the Lv family members abused their power, controlled the court and the throne, while the Liu royal family was completely at their mercy. At that time, Marquis Jiang was the Grand Commandant, in charge of the military, but failed to rectify the court. It was only after Empress Lv's death that the ministers together exterminated the Lv family, and the Grand Commandant seized credit for it. So, he is just a meritorious official, not a true servant of the state. Now, the Prime Minister is so arrogant, yet Your Majesty treats him with great humility. This shows a lack of respect from subject to monarch; I think Your Majesty's actions are not appropriate." The next day at court, the Emperor appeared even more dignified and stern, and the Prime Minister became more fearful. Later, Marquis Jiang saw Yuan Ang and said, "I have a good relationship with your brother, but you come to ruin me!" Yuan Ang gave him the cold shoulder. When Marquis Jiang was sent to his fiefdom, someone accused him of treason and wanted to arrest and interrogate him, seize his assets, and wipe out his entire family. None of the other ministers dared to speak; only Yuan Ang testified to Marquis Jiang's innocence. As a result, Marquis Jiang was released, and Yuan Ang was instrumental in this matter. From that day on, they were the best of friends.
King Li of Huainan was a total tyrant; he killed the Marquis of Biyang and acted like he owned the place. Yuan Ang advised, "The princes are too proud; they'll definitely get into trouble. We should cut his land holdings down to size." The emperor didn't agree. King Li of Huainan went completely off the rails. Later, King Li of Huainan's plot was uncovered, and the emperor had him hauled off to Sichuan in chains. At the time, Yuan Ang was a general, and he advised again, "Look, Your Majesty, you let him get away with murder, never put him in his place—that's why we're here now. Now you're cracking down hard. King Li of Huainan's got a stubborn streak a mile wide. He's walking a tightrope; he's as good as dead. Your Majesty, it'll make you look bad, like you can't stand anyone disagreeing with you, and you'll be known as the brother-killer, and that ain't good." But the emperor didn't listen and sent him packing.
When the King of Huainan arrived in Yongdi, he died of illness. When the Emperor heard about it, he was heartbroken and stopped eating. Guan Ying entered the palace and prostrated himself to apologize. The Emperor said, "It's because I didn't listen to your advice that this happened." Guan Ying replied, "Your Majesty, don't worry about it. This is water under the bridge! Besides, Your Majesty has shown great acts three times; this incident is not enough to hurt your reputation." The Emperor asked, "What are the three noble deeds?" Guan Ying said, "Back when you were in Dai, the Empress Dowager was ill for three years. You didn't sleep or change clothes, and you only allowed the Empress Dowager to take medicine after you tasted it yourself. Even someone like Zeng Shen would have found it hard, but you, as the Emperor, managed to do it, far surpassing Zeng Shen. When the Lü clan ran roughshod and the ministers were all puffed up, you sped off in a six-horse chariot to parts unknown; not even Ben and Yu were that brave. After arriving at the Dai Palace, you turned it down three times westward and twice southward. You turned it down five times—four more than Xu You ever did! Furthermore, you moved the King of Huainan to Huainan to teach him a lesson and straighten him out, but his guard didn't do his job, leading to his death." After hearing this, the Emperor was relieved, and Guan Ying's reputation soared as a result.
Guan Ying has always been upright and is outspoken. Eunuch Zhao Tan, who has repeatedly favored the Emperor, is always jealous of Guan Ying, which worries him. Guan Ying's nephew, Zhong, is a guard of the Emperor, who advises Guan Ying, "You have offended many people. Even if they continue to dislike you, the Emperor will no longer believe in you." Later, when the Emperor went to the Eastern Palace, Zhao Tan was driving the carriage beside him. Guan Ying knelt in front of the carriage and said, "I heard that those who can share a carriage with the Emperor are heroes of the world. Although the Han Dynasty lacks talents now, Your Majesty, how can you ride in a carriage with those who've barely escaped death?" The Emperor laughed heartily and dismissed Zhao Tan. Zhao Tan cried as he got off the carriage.
When the Emperor was coming down from Baling, wanting to quickly hurry down the hill to the west, Guan Ying grabbed the reins. The Emperor asked, "General, are you worried?" Guan Ying replied, "It's said that the sons of families with a fortune do not easily leave home, the sons of families with a comfortable amount do not easily ride horses, and a wise ruler does not take risks or seek shortcuts. Now, Your Majesty is riding in a carriage pulled by six horses, racing down a dangerous mountain road. If the horses get scared and the carriage overturns, even if Your Majesty were unconcerned, how will you account to the ancestors and the Empress Dowager?" The Emperor then stopped.
The Emperor was having a day out at Shanglin Park, with the Empress and Lady Shen in tow. While in the palace, they often sat together. Once, while sitting, Ang, the Palace Attendant, arranged the seats but scooted Lady Shen's seat further away. Lady Shen was very angry and refused to sit. The Emperor also stood up. Ang stepped forward and said, "I figure things work best when everyone knows their place. Now that Your Majesty has established the Empress, Lady Shen is just a concubine. How can a concubine and the Empress sit together? Besides, if Your Majesty favors her, you should reward her handsomely. Your kindness to Lady Shen may end up bringing her trouble. Haven't you heard the saying about 'too much of a good thing'?" After hearing this, the Emperor went in and told Lady Shen about it. Lady Shen rewarded Ang with a king's ransom in gold.
Although Ang was not able to stay in the palace for long due to his repeated frank advice, he was transferred to Longxi as a commander. He was good to his men, and they'd do anything for him. He was later promoted to be the Prime Minister of Qi and then transferred to the state of Wu as the Prime Minister. Before leaving, his friend Zhong said to him, "The King of Wu has been arrogant for a long time, and there are many treacherous officials in the country. This time when you go, if they don't report your situation to the King, they might stab you in the back. The south's humid, so you'll want to keep the spirits flowing. Before long, just tell the King to lay off the rebellion stuff, and you'll be fine." Ang followed Zhong's strategy, and the King of Wu greatly valued him.
I said I wanted to go home, and on the way, I met the Prime Minister Shentu Jia. I got out of my carriage to bow to him, and the Prime Minister returned my bow from his carriage. When I got home, I felt sorry for my subordinates, so I went to visit the Prime Minister's mansion again, requesting an audience with him. The Prime Minister kept me waiting before granting me an audience. I knelt down and said, "I want to talk to you." The Prime Minister replied, "If it's official business, discuss it with those officials and chief secretaries, and I will report your opinions; if it's private matters, I won't accept private requests." I immediately stood up and said, "As the Prime Minister, do you think you compare to Chen Ping and the Marquis of Jiang?" The Prime Minister said, "I don't measure up." I said, "Very well, you also feel inferior to them. Chen Ping and the Marquis of Jiang assisted Emperor Gaozu, pacified the world, became generals, and even killed the Lü clan, preserving the Liu dynasty. As for you, you started as the lowliest soldier. You clawed your way up to Prefect of Huaiyang, but without any real strategic brilliance or battlefield victories. Moreover, since the Emperor began his campaign from Dai, there has been morning court every day, with the officials constantly submitting memorials. If the suggestions are not feasible, they are set aside; if they are feasible, the Emperor always praises them. Why is that? He wants to attract talented scholars from all over the country, to hear new opinions every day and increase his own knowledge. But you are stifling dissent, only making yourself more ignorant. A wise emperor expects better from his prime minister. You're playing a dangerous game!" The Prime Minister then bowed again and said, "I am a bit thick, thanks to the General for guiding me." He then invited me in and treated me as an honored guest.
Yuan Ang and Chao Cuo did not get along. Whenever they met, they would avoid each other, never speaking under the same roof. Later, Emperor Xiaojing ascended the throne, and Chao Cuo became the Imperial Censor. He sent people to investigate Yuan Ang for accepting bribes from the King of Wu, wanting to charge him with a crime. However, the Emperor later ordered his pardon.
The news of the rebellion in Wu and Chu spread, and Chao Cuo told his subordinates, "Yuan Ang has received a lot of money from the King of Wu, but has been turning a blind eye, saying that Wu Kingdom will not rebel. Now that Wu Kingdom has indeed rebelled, I want to capture him and question him; I should be able to learn about Wu Kingdom's strategy from him." The subordinates said, "The situation has not been exposed yet. If we capture him now, it would be like shooting ourselves in the foot. The army is currently fighting in the west, so what would be the point? Besides, Yuan Ang doesn't seem like a cunning person." Chao Cuo was still undecided.
Someone ratted him out, and Yuan Ang became afraid. He went to see Dou Ying in the middle of the night, explained the reasons for Wu Kingdom's rebellion, and said he was willing to personally go see the Emperor to explain himself. Dou Ying told the Emperor, who then summoned Yuan Ang. After entering the palace, Yuan Ang explained in detail the reasons for Wu Kingdom's rebellion and also said that Chao Cuo must be killed to apologize to Wu Kingdom so that they would cease fighting. After hearing this, the Emperor appointed Yuan Ang as Tai Chang and Dou Ying as Grand General. These two were already very close, and many talented ministers in Chang'an City were trying to curry favor with them, with hundreds of carriages following them every day.
After Chao Cuo was killed, Yuan Ang, in his capacity as Tai Chang, was sent to Wu Kingdom. The King of Wu, wanting him dead, sent a commander with five hundred men to surround Yuan Ang's army.
Years ago, when Yuan Ang was Prime Minister of Wu Kingdom, one of his historians was sleeping with Yuan Ang's maid in private. Yuan Ang found out but did not expose him and continued to treat him as before. Later, someone informed on him, saying, "Do you know your maid is having an affair with that historian?" The historian was scared and ran away. Yuan Ang personally caught up with him, gave him the maid, and allowed him to continue serving as his historian.
When Yuan Ang was surrounded by the Wu Kingdom, the historian happened to be serving as a junior officer in the army guarding him. He used all his money to buy a generous amount of fine wine, and as the weather was cold and the soldiers were hungry and thirsty, he shared the wine with the soldiers on the less-guarded southwest flank, and they all drank and fell asleep. In the middle of the night, the junior officer woke up Yuan Ang and said, "You need to get out of here, fast. The King of Wu is going to kill you tomorrow." Yuan Ang didn't believe it and asked, "What's going on?" The junior officer said, "I was once your historian, and... well, let's just say I made a mistake involving your maidservant." Yuan Ang then understood and thanked him, saying, "I'm really grateful for your help; I can't involve you." The junior officer replied, "If you go, I've gotta go too. Gotta protect my family, you know?" He cut open the tent with a knife and led Yuan Ang straight out from among the drunken soldiers, and then disappeared into the night. Yuan Ang shed his official seal, hid it, and barefoot, began his seventy-mile trek. At dawn, he ran into some Liang cavalry. He escaped on horseback and rode back to the capital to deliver his report to the court.
Wu and Chu both got their butts kicked. The Emperor made him King of Chu—using the title of Prince Yuan, or Pinglu Marquis—and also named him Chu's prime minister. Ang once wrote a letter to the emperor, but the emperor did not accept it. Later, Ang fell ill, resigned from his position, and returned home to live a carefree life with his neighbors. He ate, drank, raised chickens, walked his dogs, and generally lived the good life. There was a famous gambler in Luoyang named Ju Meng, who had visited Ang before and was treated well by him. Some rich dude from Anling asks Ang, "Hey, I heard Ju Meng's a gambler. Why're you hanging out with him?" Ang says, "Yeah, so he's a gambler, but his mom's funeral had over a thousand carriages! That ain't your average Joe! Besides, everyone needs friends when the chips are down. You wouldn't turn someone away just 'cause they weren't family, or 'cause they weren't some big shot. The world values guys like Ji Bu and Ju Meng. You got a few guys on horseback. Big deal. What good are they gonna be in a real emergency?" Ang chewed him out and sent him packing. The other officials thought he was awesome.
Even though Ang was living the life of Riley, Emperor Jing kept sending for his advice. At that time, Prince Liang wanted to compete to become the heir to the throne. Ang advised the emperor about this, but was interrupted before he could finish speaking. Prince Liang held a grudge and sent a hitman after Ang. The hitman got to Guanzhong, asked around about Ang, and everyone sang his praises. When the assassin met Ang, he said, "I'm supposed to kill you for Prince Liang, but you're too respected. So I brought a whole crew to make it look like I tried." Ang felt uneasy—weird stuff was happening at home—so he went to see a fortune teller. He'd barely gotten back when Prince Liang's goons showed up and finished him off right outside Anling.
Chao Cuo, from Yingchuan, once studied the legalist thought of Shen Buhai and Shang Yang at the home of Zhang Hui Sheng in Zhi County, and was classmates with Song Meng and Liu Dai from Luoyang. Later, he relied on his literary skills and became the official in charge of records at the Tai Chang.
Chao Cuo was upright and diligent. During the reign of Emperor Xiao Wen of the Han Dynasty, no one in the world understood *The Book of Documents* except for an old man named Fu Sheng in the state of Qi, who was a scholar-official of the Qin Dynasty and was proficient in *The Book of Documents*. At over ninety years old, he was too frail to go to court in person. So the emperor ordered the Tai Chang to send someone to visit Fu Sheng and learn *The Book of Documents*. The Tai Chang sent Chao Cuo to study with Fu Sheng. After completing his studies and returning, Chao Cuo wrote a memorial to the emperor, presenting his own views. The emperor admired him and appointed him as an attendant to the Crown Prince, later promoting him to Palace Attendant, and eventually becoming a Doctor of the Imperial Academy.
Chao Cuo once again submitted a memorial to the emperor, saying: "The reason why monarchs can go down in history and achieve lasting fame is that they understand the way of governing a country. Therefore, a monarch must understand how to manage his officials and his people, so that his officials will respect and obey him; understand how to listen to opinions and handle government affairs, so as not to be deceived or misled; understand how to keep the people happy and prosperous, so that the people will be loyal; and understand how to serve the emperor loyally, so that the behavior of the subjects will be regulated. I'm worried the Crown Prince hasn't quite grasped these four key areas. Some people say that the Crown Prince does not understand how to handle government affairs, but I think this is incorrect. I've noticed throughout history that those who dishonored their ancestors and murdered their officials were people who did not understand the way of governing a country. The Crown Prince has read many books, but has not yet deeply understood the principles of governance, because no one has explained them to him. Reading without understanding is pointless. I have observed privately that the Crown Prince is highly intelligent, talented, and an excellent archer, but he has not yet delved into the study of governance because he respects you so much. I hope Your Majesty can select some sage's strategies for governing the country, suitable for use in the present era, give them to the Crown Prince, and allow him to frequently present his own understanding to you. Please give it some thought." The emperor was very pleased and appointed Chao Cuo as the Crown Prince's tutor. Because he was very eloquent and won the favor of the Crown Prince, the people in the Crown Prince's residence called him the "brains trust." The Xiongnu were a powerful force, constantly raiding the borders, so Emperor Wen sent troops to defend them. Chao Cuo then submitted a memorial to the emperor, discussing military strategies, saying:
I heard that since the establishment of the Han Dynasty, the Xiongnu have invaded the border many times. Smaller raids yielded smaller gains, while larger ones yielded larger gains. During the reign of Empress Dowager Gao, the Xiongnu invaded Longxi twice, seizing cities and pillaging wealth and livestock; they invaded Longxi again, killing officials and soldiers and looting extensively. Winning battles can inspire the people and double their morale; soldiers who lose battles are never the same again. Starting from the time of Empress Dowager Gao, Longxi was defeated by the Xiongnu three times, and the people's morale was utterly crushed, leaving them without hope of victory.
Now the officials in Longxi, thanks to Heaven and the Emperor's command, unite the soldiers, hone their will, and lead those with low morale to confront the formidable Xiongnu, defeating the Xiongnu army, including their king, in a stunning victory. This wasn't due to a lack of bravery in Longxi, but rather to the difference in leadership ability. Therefore, military books say: "A winning general doesn't guarantee a winning war; determination is key." From this incident, it can be seen that to stabilize the border and establish merit, careful selection is crucial in choosing outstanding generals.
So I heard that, when it comes to fighting, the key points to consider are: first, a terrain advantage; second, how well the soldiers are trained; and third, whether the weapons are good or not. Military texts say: deep ditches (approximately 5 feet), swift-flowing streams, rocks piled in the mountains and forests, uneven hills, and places filled with grass and trees are all excellent for infantry combat, where cavalry are easily outmatched by infantry two to one. Undulating hills and expansive plains are suitable for cavalry, where one infantryman is no match for ten cavalrymen. High ground overlooking distant plains and valleys is ideal terrain for archers, where close-combat troops are outmatched by a single archer. When the two armies are close together on flat ground with sparse grass, allowing for both advance and retreat, it favors pikemen, who can easily defeat three sword and shield soldiers. In areas thick with reeds, bamboo, and dense shrubs, spearmen thrive, outmatching two pikemen. Curving roads that provide mutual protection in dangerous areas are perfect for sword and shield soldiers, who excel in these winding, strategically positioned spaces, easily outnumbering archers three to one.
Soldiers who have not undergone rigorous selection and training, are not familiar with drills, are slovenly in their daily lives, have disorganized actions, can't outrun the enemy, cannot avoid dangers in time, rout at the first sign of trouble, and are out of sync with the drummers, this is the fault of insufficient soldier training. One hundred such soldiers are not as good as ten well-trained soldiers. Poorly equipped weapons are like fighting with their bare hands; weak armor is like fighting naked; crossbows with insufficient range are as good as melee weapons; inaccurate archery is like having no arrows at all; arrows that hit but don't penetrate are as good as having no arrowheads. This stems from commanders' ignorance of military strategy. Five soldiers like this are not as good as one elite soldier. That's why the old military texts warn against: "Bad equipment is like handing your soldiers over to the enemy; soldiers who can't be used are like handing your commanders over to the enemy; commanders who don't understand military tactics are like giving the country to the enemy; monarchs who don't choose good commanders are like giving the country to the enemy. These four points are the most important in warfare."
So, I hear that big countries and small countries are shaped differently, the strengths of strong and weak countries vary, and the preparations needed for dangerous and flat areas differ as well. You see, kowtowing to the big boys is the strategy of small countries; uniting the weak to attack the strong is the strategy of hostile nations; playing one barbarian tribe against another is the strategy of the Central Plains. Now, the terrain, skills, and tactics of the Xiongnu are different from those of the Central Plains. They can navigate mountains and streams; the horses of the Central Plains are no match for theirs. On steep mountain paths, they can run and shoot arrows, while the cavalry of the Central Plains don’t stand a chance against them. In windy and rainy weather, even when tired, hungry, and thirsty, they don’t feel fatigued, while the people of the Central Plains can’t keep up: these are the advantages of the Xiongnu.
However, if they reach a flat and easily defensible area and engage in battle with swift cavalry, the Xiongnu army will easily be disrupted. If strong crossbows and long spears with long range are used, the Xiongnu's bows and arrows won't reach; if wearing sturdy armor and wielding sharp swords, using various weapons in combination, with crossbow bolts flying thick and fast, and soldiers working together, the Xiongnu army won't be able to withstand the assault. If elite troops and chariots are deployed, with arrows hitting their mark, the Xiongnu's leather and wooden shields won’t hold up; if they dismount to engage in close combat, with swords clashing and mutual killing, the Xiongnu soldiers will crumble: these are the advantages of the Central Plains.
In this way, the Xiongnu have three advantages, while the Central Plains have five. Your Majesty, you're sending hundreds of thousands of troops against a few tens of thousands of Xiongnu – it's a total mismatch! This is a classic case of overwhelming force.
However, war is cruel, and fighting is very dangerous. To use superior strength against the weak is just a matter of one thought. If soldiers are sent to their deaths in vain for the sake of victory, they'll live to regret it. The emperor's strategy should be guaranteed to succeed. There are now many Huns, Yiqu people, and barbarians who have surrendered, totaling several thousand. Their eating habits and combat skills are similar to those of the Xiongnu, so we can provide them with sturdy armor, cotton clothing, and powerful bows and arrows, along with good horses from the border regions. Let astute generals understand their customs, unite their hearts, and use Your Majesty's wisdom to inspire them. Use them against strong opposition, and deploy light chariots and elite forces for easier engagements. With both armies cooperating and doing their best, combined with the advantage in numbers, this is a surefire plan.
There's an old saying: "The words of a madman, and the wise ruler chooses from them." Forgive my boldness, Your Majesty, but I must speak.
Emperor Wen of Han greatly appreciated the memorial from the Chief of the Taiji Household, so he sent a reply with a seal book that contained misspelled characters, writing in the letter: "Your Majesty has read my three memos on military strategy. You quote the saying, 'A wise ruler will find use even in a fool's words.' But the problem isn't foolish advice; it's the lack of wisdom in choosing it. That's the real danger. If those in power ignore sound counsel, then even a mountain of suggestions won't help."
Next, the Prince's advisor brought up guarding the borders, strengthening defenses, and boosting farming and production as the top priorities. He said, "I have heard that during the Qin Dynasty, they attacked the Xiongnu in the north and built defenses along the Yellow River; they attacked the Baiyue in the south and stationed troops there. The Qin Dynasty raised troops to attack the Xiongnu and Baiyue not to defend the borders or save the people, but out of greed and cruelty, wanting to expand their territory, so before any achievements were made, chaos spread throughout the land. Moreover, if troops are raised for war without understanding the situation, they will be captured by the enemy in battle, and many soldiers will die at the borders, while even more perish during transport. The Xiongnu live in bitterly cold lands, with tree bark three inches thick and ice six feet thick. Their diet of meat and milk, coupled with their naturally thick, coarse skin and fur, made them remarkably resistant to the cold. In contrast, the Baiyue region, with its warmer climate, produced people with delicate skin and thinner fur, well-suited to the heat. When the people of Qin saw conscription, they felt like they were going to their deaths, so forced conscription was implemented, known as 'press-ganged soldiers.' It started with criminals, then ex-merchants, then the families of ex-merchants, until finally, they were sweeping up everyone. Conscription was a disaster; the soldiers were terrified and constantly thinking of desertion. Those common people who could fight to the death without surrendering did so because they saw benefits. Therefore, if they won battles and defended the city, they would be rewarded with titles; if they attacked and plundered cities, they could obtain wealth to enrich their families, which is why they risked life and limb, braving unimaginable dangers, seeing death as a return home. But Qin conscription was a death sentence—no rewards, no compensation after death. Everyone knew the writing was on the wall."
Chen Sheng was doing military service when he reached Daze Township and led the first uprising. People flocked to his banner like a river. That shows you the problems with the Qin's forced labor.
Folks say those nomads—they don't depend on farming, so it's easy for them to disturb the border. Why do they say that? Think about it: the Hu people eat meat, drink milk, and wear fur clothing. They don't have fixed towns or houses, just like birds and animals, roaming the grasslands. Wherever there's good grass and water, they stay, and when the grass runs out or the water dries up, they move. You see, they come and go like this, popping up and vanishing. That's how they live, which is why we in the Central Plains have peace.
If we let these nomads roam the borderlands, grazing and hunting in Yan, Dai, Shangjun, Beidi, and Longxi, they'll tie up our troops. If you don't send help, the border folk will lose hope and might even surrender. A small force is useless, and a large one takes too long to arrive; by then, the nomads are gone. This drags on, costing a fortune, and if we pull back, they'll be right back.
Your Majesty's concern for the border is commendable, sending troops to build defenses—that's great! But those soldiers are from far away, rotated yearly, so they don't know the nomads. Better to choose locals, settle them there, let them farm and defend the border.
It is best to build tall city walls and deep moats, prepare stones and wood, construct water channels, and then build a city inside, with a distance of 150 steps between two cities. In important passes and transportation routes, towns should be built with a population of no less than a thousand families as defensive fortifications. First, build houses, prepare farming tools, and recruit prisoners and criminals exempt from corvée to live there; if not enough, recruit able-bodied men and women, and slaves, redeeming themselves or their slaves by offering service; if still not enough, recruit those willing to go. Grant them high titles, restore their household registrations, distribute clothing and provisions, and stop recruiting when they can be self-sufficient. County folk can buy titles with money, up to the rank of lord. Widows and widowers will be provided with new partners by the county officials. People, without companions, find it hard to settle down for long. Border folk get little in the way of benefits, and they cannot be allowed to live in dangerous places for long. If hostile tribes invade, those who can stop them from looting will receive half of the spoils, and the county officials will ransom back those who were looted. In this way, neighbors would help each other, and they will not fear death when facing invasions. It's not about noble ideals; it's about family and profit. Compared to the Eastern troops who are unfamiliar with the terrain and fear the invaders, the effect is much better!
Sire, by settling people on the border, eliminating the need for garrisons in distant places, allowing the people on the border to protect each other, and avoiding the danger of being captured, this will benefit generations to come and secure your place in history. This is a far cry from the Qin's disastrous policies!
Cuo also said:
Your Majesty, by encouraging commoners to relocate to the border, the burden of defending the frontier is lightened, and the cost of transporting military supplies is reduced. That's incredibly generous! If the officials below can truly understand this great favor, strictly enforce the law, look after the elderly and children, treat the men well, foster a sense of belonging, and make them feel right at home, then word would spread, and people would flock there.
I heard that in ancient times, when relocating people to distant places, it was to fill empty spaces. They would first assess the feng shui, taste the water springs there, carefully examine the suitability of the land, observe the growth of plants, and then build towns, plan streets and lanes, and construct field roads. They would first build houses for them, each with a main house and side rooms, complete with doors and windows, and equipped with furniture and utensils. This way, when the people arrive, they have a place to live and things to use, so they will easily leave their hometown and go to the new town. They'd have doctors and healers on hand to treat diseases, handle all aspects of life and death, ensure a well-planned community with proper burial grounds and comfortable housing, and plant trees, to encourage long-term settlement.
I also heard that in ancient times, the governance of border areas was to resist enemies. They implemented a system where five families formed a unit, with a leader for each unit; ten units formed a village, with a village head; four villages formed a company, with a company commander; ten companies formed a town, with a town chief. These officials had to be selected from the local area based on their talent, responsibility, and familiarity with the local geography and customs. They would train the people in archery during peacetime and teach them how to fight during wartime. This ensured a well-trained army and stable border security. This fostered a deep familiarity with the land. They grew up together, worked together, and fought together. In night battles, they could hear each other's voices and provide mutual assistance; in daytime battles, they could see each other's faces and get to know each other; they would establish deep feelings for each other and be willing to fight and die together. Generous rewards and harsh punishments ensured loyalty. If the relocated people were not strong and capable, it would only increase the logistical burden and be unproductive; even if they were capable, without good management from officials, it would be in vain.
Your Majesty, if we cut ties with the Xiongnu and stop the arranged marriages, I privately believe they may invade from the south in winter. A single, large-scale effort won't solve the problem long-term. To establish authority, one should be firm from the beginning. If we don't decisively defeat them this time, they'll be even harder to handle later. I am but a humble servant, and offer this for your Majesty's consideration.
Later, the Emperor ordered the relevant departments to recommend upright and talented scholars, and I was selected in the selection process. The Emperor personally questioned me, saying:
In September, 125 BC, the emperor said: "In the past, Emperor Yu diligently sought talent far and wide, reaching even the most remote corners of the land. They all obeyed his orders to help him overcome the challenges of governance; those close to the court offered their intelligence and wisdom, while those far from the court also expressed their opinions, all working together to counsel the emperor. This is how Emperor Yu was able to avoid mistakes and the Xia Dynasty could prosper for a long time. The founder personally crushed rebellions and promoted talented officials, allowing them to hold positions of authority and speak up, thereby consolidating the rule of the Han Dynasty. Thanks to Heaven and our ancestors, the country was able to stabilize, and grace also spread to the four barbarians. I've inherited the throne and the responsibility of honoring our ancestors. However, I'm aware of my own shortcomings in morality, lack of ability, and inability to see everything clearly, all of which you all know. Therefore, I have issued a decree for all officials, from the highest to the lowest, to do their best and select, according to the specified number, wise and outspoken officials who understand the nation's policies and the ebb and flow of its fortunes, to make up for my shortcomings. You gentlemen, if you can achieve these three points, I'd appreciate that, which is why I have summoned you to the court to personally explain my thoughts to you. Please consider these three points carefully. Remember, we face challenges: my own inadequacies, official corruption, ineffective governance, and widespread unrest. You must honestly express your opinions on these four shortcomings, without hiding anything. Write your opinions for the sake of our ancestors and the people. I'll personally read your submissions to see how you plan to assist me. After writing them, you must keep them properly, check them repeatedly, seal them with a stamp, and store them away. I'll lead by example, and I expect complete honesty and integrity from all of you."
Remember my words! All high-ranking officials of the second thousand-stone rank and above, get this done, and don't slack!
The ministers replied:
**(This should be the original text that is incorrect, no translation needed)**
I am Pingyang Marquis Zhuo; Ruyin Marquis Zao; Yingyin Marquis He; Magistrate Tingwei Yichang; Prefect of Longxi Kunye; and the Prince's Household Officer Cuo. We, these selected able ministers, once again bow before Your Majesty to report: We have heard that in ancient times, wise monarchs all sought talented individuals to assist them. The Yellow Emperor, thanks to Lü Shang, became the first of the Five Emperors; Great Yu, with the help of Jiu Yao, became the ancestor of the Three Kings; Duke Huan of Qi, aided by Guan Zhong, became the leader of the Five Hegemons. Now, Your Majesty, by emulating Great Yu and the founding emperor, humbly acknowledging your shortcomings and seeking virtuous individuals, this is truly incredibly humble!
We have privately observed historical records of past dynasties, such as the achievements of the founding emperor and Your Majesty's current great accomplishments, as well as the prosperity of having talented individuals to assist. These achievements are recorded for all time, etched in history and revered by future emperors. However, we, these individuals, have allowed Cuo to take on the task of collecting taxes, which truly doesn't reflect Your Majesty's wise policy of seeking out talent! I, Cuo, am just a commoner from the countryside, at the risk of my life, I offer my humble opinion to Your Majesty:
The imperial edict states that one should be "clear about the overall situation of the country." I believe this "clarity" can be found in the ancient Five Emperors. I have heard that the Five Emperors conducted themselves with unparalleled righteousness and integrity, far beyond the reach of their subjects. They personally handled state affairs in the Bright Hall, among the officials; their actions could align with the will of heaven above, conform to the geographical conditions below, and perfectly reflected the will of the people. Therefore, the people of the world were not oppressed, and the people's livelihood was secure; their political orders were clear and impartial, without bias; their virtues influenced all creatures, from birds to insects and plants, all receiving their blessings. Harmony reigned; seasons cycled perfectly; the land flourished, free from disaster and crime; the people lived long, healthy lives; auspicious signs appeared throughout the land—maps in the Yellow River, books in the Luo River, dragons and phoenixes in the sky, blessings spread throughout the world, and divine light shone over the four seas. This is what it means to be in harmony with Heaven and Earth, and to govern the great affairs of the country! The imperial edict also states "to know the ropes of human affairs," so, being the humble servant I am, I'll use the example of the Three Kings to explain.
I hear the Three Emperors of antiquity and their officials were wise, allowing them to cooperate, plan together, and create a peaceful world—all stemming from a deep understanding of human nature. Everyone wants a long life, and under the Three Emperors, the people enjoyed peace and prosperity, free from casualties. Everyone desires wealth, and during their reign, the people lived in abundance, without hardship. Everyone seeks stability, and under their rule, the people experienced safety and security. Everyone wants ease, and while the Three Emperors encouraged moderation, they never overwhelmed the people. Their laws reflected human nature, and they only made laws that made sense to the people. They were practical in their demands. They practiced the Golden Rule, treating others as they would wish to be treated. Therefore, everyone appreciated their policies, followed their virtues, respected them as parents, and flowed along with them like water downstream. The people lived in harmony. The country flourished. Their good name and legacy lived on, blessings passed down to future generations. That's the power of understanding human nature!
The Emperor's decree said, "Speak your mind!" So let this foolish official use the advisors of the Five Hegemons as an example. I hear the Five Hegemons themselves weren't as wise as their advisors, which is why they entrusted important national affairs and significant tasks to them. Those assistant ministers of the Five Hegemons were honest, just, and selfless in their service. They were cautious and never deceitful; they strictly abided by the law and never acted for personal gain; they worked wholeheartedly without boasting; they faced danger without fear of death; they never arrogantly considered themselves superior when encountering virtuous individuals; and they never took advantage of false talents to occupy high positions. Now that's what I call integrity!
When they make laws, it is not to deliberately make things difficult for the people, but to benefit the people, maintain order, and suppress rebellion. When they give rewards, it is not to recklessly waste the people's wealth, but to encourage loyal and dutiful subjects and commend their achievements. Therefore, bigger rewards go to bigger achievements, while smaller rewards go to smaller ones. In this way, even if it costs the people to reward those who have contributed, they will not resent it, because they know that rewards and punishments are clear, and they can be at ease. When they punish, it is not out of anger to randomly punish, but to prohibit traitors and criminals. Therefore, those with serious crimes receive severe punishments, while those with minor crimes receive lighter punishments. In this way, even if the people face execution or even die, they will not resent it, because they know that it is deserved punishment, caused by themselves. Making laws in this way, that's what just officials do! If there are unjust laws, they will request modifications without harming the people; if the monarch acts like a tyrant, they will advise and correct without harming the country. They can cover the monarch's flaws and highlight their strengths, keeping the monarch's heart pure and reputation spotless. Serving the monarch in this way, they are truly people who spoke truth to power! This is why the Five Hegemons were able to rule justly, inspire awe, and achieve great things. Renowned wise monarchs, the Five Hegemons are also among them, precisely because they have such ministers who can offer frank advice to correct their mistakes. Now, Your Majesty has a vast population, mighty power, generous grace, and absolute authority, far surpassing the Five Hegemons, yet Your Majesty has bestowed upon me a decree to "rectify your deficiencies." I can't fathom Your Majesty's wisdom, and I'm nowhere near ready for this! I'm not worthy of the honor of "speaking truth to power."
The emperor's decree went something like this: "When officials are not just, laws cannot be smoothly implemented, and the people cannot live in peace." So, to explain, let's look at the Qin Dynasty. I have heard that when the Qin Dynasty first unified the country, Shi Huangdi wasn't as great as the legendary Three Emperors and Five Emperors, and his advisors weren't as wise either. However, he was able to quickly unify the six states. Why was that? It was because Qin had the geography, the money, and the manpower. Meanwhile, the six states he conquered were weak and divided, with unpopular rulers and lots of internal strife, which is why Qin was the strongest at that time. A strong country surrounded by weak ones is a recipe for conquest, which is why Qin was able to annex the six states and establish the imperial throne. So, even those legendary emperors couldn't hold a candle to Shi Huangdi.
But by the time the Qin Dynasty fell, the Second Emperor of Qin hired a bunch of no-hopers and listened to every whispering villain. Palace building went wild, and extravagance was rampant; the people were worked to the bone and taxed silly. The Second Emperor of Qin thought himself clever, and his ministers were all kissing up to him. He handed out rewards and death sentences on a whim, only caring about his own amusement. The laws were brutal, the punishments barbaric, and executions were commonplace. People lived in fear. Corrupt officials ran riot, expanding their power, and jailers killed whoever they pleased. The whole country was falling apart, everyone for themselves. At first, the officials picked on the poor and powerless; then they moved onto the rich and powerful; finally, nobody was safe, not even the emperor's own family. Everyone was in danger, complaints were everywhere, people fled, and fear reigned. Chen Sheng and Wu Guang sparked the rebellion, the Qin Dynasty collapsed, and Liu Bang took over. That's what happens when you have corrupt officials, bad policies, and a terrified population.
Your Majesty now follows the natural order, sheltering the people and completely changing the Qin Dynasty's legacy by abolishing its tyranny. You personally handle government affairs, shunning luxury and excess; reducing harsh taxes and implementing lenient policies; abolishing corporal punishment and reducing penalties for criminals; letting slander slide and canceling the harsh taxes on coinage; opening up the mountain passes and not oppressing the regional rulers; respecting guests and caring for orphans and widows; ensuring criminals serve fixed sentences and palace maids can marry; promoting filial piety and exempting farmers from taxes; streamlining military commands and caring for the troops; promoting honest talents and purging the corrupt; eliminating hidden torture and executing those who harm the people; showing mercy to the people and calling the marquises back to the capital. You personally farm, being frugal and avoiding extravagance or waste. You benefit the world, reform laws, and stabilize the country; you've accomplished dozens of great things, achievements that are difficult for previous emperors to reach. Your Majesty, you have done it; your righteousness is absolute, your virtue profound, and the people of the world are blessed!
The imperial decree says, "I deeply know my own shortcomings." I'm not up to the task of bearing this heavy responsibility.
The Emperor's order was, "Lay it all on the line!" So, let me use the Five Emperors' advisors as an example, if you'll pardon my boldness. I heard that the ministers of the Five Emperors era could not compare to the emperors, so the emperors had to do everything themselves; during the Three Kings era, both the ruler and his subjects were wise, so they all worked together for the good of the country and its people; during the Spring and Autumn period of the Five Hegemons, the monarchs were not as good as their ministers, so they had to rely on their ministers. This is why great rulers and their able ministers are remembered forever, as they all made significant contributions in their respective eras. Ancient books say: "You can't change the past, but you can shape the future. A true emperor makes his era shine." This is the truth. I heard that if you can't win a war, change the battlefield, and if the common people are poor, change their livelihoods. Your Majesty, you're wise and kind. Your reign's been sixteen years long, and the country's as strong as it was under the Five Emperors. But the people are still poor, bandits are everywhere, and our borders are weak. Why is this? Maybe it's because you're relying on your ministers instead of leading yourself. The officials in the court are all elite individuals selected from across the nation, but they cannot compare to Your Majesty's wisdom, just like the assistants by the side of the Five Emperors. If you keep relying on ministers who can't match your brilliance, I fear that you will disappoint the divine wisdom bestowed upon you! Time marches on, Your Majesty, and your great reign isn't leaving its mark on history. It breaks my heart to see this, Your Majesty. I'm risking my neck here, Your Majesty, but I had to speak my mind. Please, Your Majesty, think on what I've said.
At that time, Jia Yi had already passed away. More than a hundred people participated in the policy examination, and only Chao Cuo's policies were rated as the highest level, so he was promoted to Minister of the Central Government. Chao Cuo also submitted memorials advising to weaken the power of the vassals and the need to modify certain laws and regulations, totaling thirty memorials. Although Emperor Wen of Han did not fully adopt his suggestions, he greatly appreciated Chao Cuo's talent. At that time, the Crown Prince admired Chao Cuo's strategies, while some prominent ministers, including Yuan Ang and others, did not think highly of him.
When Emperor Jing ascended the throne, he appointed Chao Cuo as the Interior Minister (the official responsible for internal affairs). Chao Cuo often discussed matters privately with His Majesty, who particularly valued his counsel, so he was highly trusted by the emperor. The nine highest-ranking ministers all regarded him highly, and many laws and regulations were changed because of him. Prime Minister Shentu Jia felt very uncomfortable, but he had no way to bring Chao Cuo down. The position of the Interior Minister's office was inside the wall of the Imperial Ancestral Temple, with the main gate facing east, which was quite inconvenient. Chao Cuo just had them dig a new gate on the south side, right through the temple wall! When the Prime Minister heard about this, he was furious and wanted to seize the opportunity to have Chao Cuo killed.
After hearing about this, Chao Cuo quickly found an opportunity to speak with His Majesty. When the Prime Minister went to report to the emperor, he took the chance to say that Chao Cuo had privately damaged the temple wall and requested the emperor to order the judicial officer to deal with him. The emperor replied, "That was not the temple wall at all, just the enclosure wall, so it is not a crime." The Prime Minister had no choice but to back down. After the court session, the Prime Minister was so angry that he told his chief secretary, "I should have acted first and reported later, but instead I asked for instructions first—what a mistake!" The Prime Minister, beside himself with rage, took to his bed and died. Chao Cuo became even more favored because of this incident.
Later, Chao Cuo was promoted to Chief Inspector and began to accuse the princes of wrongdoing and reduce their territories. He submitted his memorial to the emperor, who ordered the court, the nobles, and the royal family to discuss the matter together. No one dared to oppose, except for Dou Ying, who came out against it, so Chao Cuo and Dou Ying became enemies. Chao Cuo changed thirty laws, infuriating the princes. When Chao Cuo's father heard about this, he hotfooted it from Yingchuan and said to Chao Cuo, "The emperor's just taken the throne, and you're already wielding so much power, undermining the princes, alienating the court and the family – why are you doing this?" Chao Cuo replied, "I have no choice. Without this, the emperor's authority will crumble, and the dynasty will fall." His father said, "The Liu's are safe, but you Chao's are finished. I'm leaving, you're on your own!" After saying this, he took his own life by drinking poison, and before he died, he said, "I can't face what's coming."
Ten days later, Wu and Chu, along with five other states, revolted, claiming it was to kill Chao Cuo. The Emperor and Chao Cuo huddled over war plans. Chao Cuo suggested the Emperor lead the troops personally, leaving him to manage the capital. At this time, Dou Ying recommended Yuan Ang, and the Emperor summoned him. The Emperor asked Yuan Ang, "You were Wu's prime minister, right? So, what's your take on this Wu/Chu revolt?" Yuan Ang replied, "Nah, they'll be put down quick." The Emperor said, "Old King Wu's up to his neck in this – minting coins in the mountains, boiling seawater for salt, even trying to rally heroes from all over. And he's got the nerve to do it with a head full of grey hairs! Sounds like a long shot, doesn't it? Why'd you say they'll fail?" Yuan Ang replied, "Yeah, Wu's got the copper and salt, but that's not gonna attract *real* heroes. If Wu could really attract heroes, they'd help King Wu, not rebel. The king has attracted a bunch of deadbeats, thugs, and counterfeiters, so they collude with each other to rebel." Chao Cuo said, "That's a good plan, Yuan Ang." The Emperor asked, "What specific strategy is it?" Yuan Ang said, "Let's send everyone else out." The Emperor dismissed those around him, leaving only Chao Cuo. Yuan Ang then said, "This is strictly between us." He also dismissed Chao Cuo. Chao Cuo, fuming, dove behind a crate. In the end, the Emperor asked Yuan Ang, who replied, "Their letters make it clear: They're pissed because Chao Cuo, that weasel, cut into their land – land that rightfully belonged to the Emperor's sons. They're using the 'kill Chao Cuo' thing as a cover. The only way to stop this bloodbath is to get rid of Chao Cuo and give those seven states their land back."
The emperor remained silent for a long time and said, "Can this really be done? I don't care about sacrificing one person for the world." Yuan Ang replied, "My humble opinion is just that, all relying on Your Majesty's wise judgment." The emperor then appointed Yuan Ang as Tai Chang and secretly prepared his travel gear for him.
Ten days later, Prime Minister Qing Zhai, Imperial Guard Commander Jia, and Court Officer Ou jointly accused Chao Cuo in a memorial, stating, "The King of Wu rebels, does not follow the royal way, and seeks to harm the royal ancestral temple. This is something that everyone in the land should join forces to suppress. Now, Grand Master Chao Cuo suggests, 'The Wu army boasts millions, yet it only obeys its ministers—utterly unreliable! Your Majesty might as well lead the troops in person, leaving Chao Cuo to guard the capital. Near Xuzhou and Tong County, the places that Wu has not yet captured can be ceded to them.' Chao Cuo failed to praise Your Majesty's generosity and trust. He seeks to divide the court and the people, even offering Wu our cities and lands! This is treason, disloyalty, and unfilial conduct! Chao Cuo should be executed, and his parents, wife, and children, regardless of age, should all be executed together. We request that he be dealt with according to the law." The emperor grunted, "Do it." Chao Cuo was completely unaware of this. The Captain was sent to summon Chao Cuo, tricked him onto a carriage, and then butchered him in the bustling marketplace. His head was displayed as a warning to others.
After Chao Cuo's death, Deng Gong, a high-ranking official, assumed the position of military commander and led troops to attack Wu and Chu. Upon his return, he submitted a report on the military situation and met with the emperor. The emperor asked him, "I hear that Wu and Chu stopped attacking after Chao Cuo's death. Is that so?" Deng Gong replied, "Wu's been in revolt for decades; they were already angry due to land reductions, and now they're using Chao Cuo's death as an excuse to attack. Their goal was never Chao Cuo. I'm worried this will silence all the smart folks in the country." The emperor asked, "Why is that?" Deng Gong said, "Chao Cuo worried those powerful lords were getting too hard to handle, so he suggested weakening them to tighten his grip on the capital, which was a long-term plan for the country's benefit. He got whacked just as the plan was getting off the ground, shutting up loyalists at court and handing the lords a chance for payback. I think you made a mistake, Your Majesty." Hearing this, Emperor Jing sighed deeply and said, "You are right, I regret it as well!" He made Deng Gong the Commandant of Chengyang. Deng Gong, a Chenggu native, was known for his clever strategies. During the first year of Jianyuan, the emperor was looking for talent, and Deng Gong got a recommendation. Retired Deng Gong was brought back as one of the Nine Ministers. A year later, he retired, citing ill health. His son, Deng Zhang, was known throughout the land for his knowledge of Huang-Lao philosophy.
In praise of Yuan Ang, although not good at studying, he was very skilled at figuring out what the emperor wanted, motivated by a benevolent heart and speaking with fiery eloquence. He coincided perfectly with the ascension of Emperor Xiao Wen; it was perfect timing. The era had changed significantly, and he relied on his analysis of the state of Wu, being a master debater, but ultimately came to a bad end. Chao Cuo, with the country in his heart and thinking strategically, could not protect himself. Seeing this situation, his father paced desperately by the canal, trying all means to remedy the failure, unlike the decisive action of Zhao's mother, who saved the family. Unfortunately, Chao Cuo did not meet a good end, but his loyalty continues to be honored. Therefore, his political writings were preserved for posterity.
