Biography of Cao Cao

Author: Zhang Zuoyao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-05-01
Features: Cao Cao (155-220), a statesman, thinker, strategist, and literary figure of the late Eastern Han Dynasty, was the de facto founder of the Wei state during the Three Kingdoms period. He was born into a family that was both powerful and wealthy. His grandfather, Cao Teng, was a famous eunuch of the late Han Dynasty, and his father, Cao Song, was Cao Teng's adopted son who bought his way into office and rose to the position of Grand Tutor. Cao Cao developed an unrestrained personality from a young age, which drew attention from the world at an early stage. At the age of twenty, he was recommended as a filial and incorrupt official (xiaolián) and entered the imperial service. He strengthened himself during the suppression of peasant uprisings and the chaos among warlords, then escorted the emperor to Xu and "held the Son of Heaven to command the vassals." He toiled on horseback for decades in military campaigns. He pacified Yuan Shu, captured Lü Bu, defeated Yuan Shao and his son, won over Zhang Lu, fought Ma Chao, campaigned north against the Wuhuan tribes, attacked Sun Quan in the south, and fought Liu Bei in the west, ultimately establishing a vast northern realm. Cao Cao: A Critical Biography evaluates Cao Cao's historical role by affirming his achievements while not sparing criticism for his character. As a result, his accomplishments and thoughts are largely acknowledged, while his cunning and deceitful nature are also honestly reflected and commented upon. What deserves affirmation is fully affirmed, and what deserves condemnation is not lacking in sharp criticism.