Chinese history spans over five thousand years

Author: Feng Guochao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: This book is a popular and accessible read on Chinese history, narrated through historical stories and organized in a chronological order. It aims to comprehensively recreate the essence of five thousand years of Chinese history and culture by organically combining clear formats, concise language, innovative layouts, and exquisite illustrations. It allows readers to grasp the evolution of history intuitively and clearly, and fully understand the development of Chinese civilization.
After the stunning victory of Qin over Jin and avenging the Xiangshan betrayal, the two countries remained at peace for over a decade. During this time, the Southern state of Chu grew increasingly powerful day by day. In 613 BC, King Zhuang of Chu, Xiong Li, ascended the throne. That year, King Zhuang was still under 20, and the real power in the state was held by his two teachers—Dou Ke and Gongzi Xie. The young King Zhuang paid no attention to state affairs, entrusting all decisions to Dou Ke and Gongzi Xie. In the first three years of his reign, he spent his days hunting and nights indulging in revelry, even issuing an edict: anyone who dared to advise him would be executed. Three years passed, yet King Zhuang showed no remorse, continuing his nightly feasts and songs without pause. At this time, the court was in disarray, and Gongzi Xie and Gongzi Yi seized the opportunity to launch a rebellion. Fortunately, the loyal ministers Lu Ji and Shu Jun swiftly suppressed the uprising. However, by then, the neighboring small states of Chen, Zheng, and Song had all allied with Jin. With Chu's declining power, it was as fragile as an eggshell.
One day, the minister Cheng Gong Jia could no longer bear it and requested an audience with King Zhuang. In the magnificent palace, the sounds of bells, drums, silk, and bamboo filled the air. Before King Zhuang, the table was laden with fine wine and delicacies, and he was drinking while admiring the graceful dances of beautiful women. Upon seeing Cheng Gong Jia, King Zhuang asked, "What is it you wish to discuss?" Cheng Gong Jia feigned alarm and replied, "I have come to present a riddle for your amusement." Intrigued, King Zhuang smiled and said, "Very well, tell me." Cheng Gong Jia cleared his throat and said, "On the southern mountain, there is a great bird. For three years, it stands on a tree, neither flying nor crying. What kind of bird is it?" After pondering for a moment, King Zhuang said, "This is a bird unlike any other. It does not fly for three years, but when it does, it soars to the heavens; it does not cry for three years, but when it does, it astounds the world. I understand your meaning. You may go now."
Cheng Gong Jia believed King Zhuang had finally had a change of heart and would bring about new reforms. He excitedly told his friend, the minister Su Cong, who eagerly awaited the change. However, King Zhuang continued his revelry as usual. Seeing no change, Su Cong risked his life to advise the king, speaking sharply: "Your Majesty, as the ruler of Chu, you have been on the throne for three years, yet you know only how to seek pleasure. If this continues, are you not aiming to be like Jie and Zhou?" Hearing this, King Zhuang flew into a rage, drawing his sword and pointing it at Su Cong's chest. "Do you not know the decree I issued?" Su Cong remained unafraid, calm and composed, saying, "I know, but the state of Chu is beyond salvation. Living is no longer meaningful. Please grant me death!" With that, he stretched his neck forward, eyes blazing with righteous indignation. King Zhuang stared back fiercely. Suddenly, he sheathed his sword, stepped forward, and embraced Su Cong tightly, saying, "You are the very pillar of this nation I seek!"
King Zhuang immediately ordered the musicians, drummers, singers, and dancers to leave. He then sat opposite Su Cong and engaged in a heartfelt conversation. Su Cong finally realized that King Zhuang had deliberately feigned ignorance because the court was too complex—powerful ministers were causing chaos, many had allied with foreign states, and it was difficult to distinguish between loyal and treacherous officials. His purpose was to expose the traitors fully, allowing the loyal and righteous to stand out.