Characters

Cao Wei official and御史中丞, son of Bao Xin; upheld law against Cao Pi's in-laws and remonstrated on hunting and the Wu campaign; executed on a pretext.

Cao Cao's son by Consort Sun; Prince of Chu; implicated in Wang Ling's rebellion in 251 and forced to commit suicide; his principality was abolished.

Warlord, statesman, and poet who unified northern China and founded the Cao Wei kingdom during the fall of the Han dynasty.

Cao Cao's son and child prodigy, famous for the 'Cao Chong weighs the elephant' story, who died at age 12 in 208 CE.

Cao Ren's younger brother; commanded Cao Cao's elite Tiger and Leopard Cavalry; fought at Nanpi, White Wolf Mountain, and Changban; died 210.

Cao Ren's third son; enfeoffed as marquis under Wei.

Third emperor of Cao Wei, adopted son of Cao Rui, who reigned as a puppet emperor for 15 years before being deposed by Sima Shi in 254 CE.

Son of Cao Hong; succeeded to Marquis of Lecheng after his father's death in 232.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Du; Prince of Beihai, Zan, Puyang, and Zhongshan; known for studiousness and virtue; died 235; posthumously Prince Gong.

Cao Wei general and Cao Cao's cousin, famous for saving Cao Cao's life at Xingyang by giving him his horse, very wealthy but stingy, imprisoned by Cao Pi for refusing to lend money but saved by Empress Dowager Bian.

Last emperor of Cao Wei, grandson of Cao Cao, who reigned as a puppet emperor for 5 years before abdicating to Sima Yan in 266 CE, ending the Wei dynasty.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Yin; died young without heir; posthumously honoured as Prince Min of Fanyang by Cao Pi in 222.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Huan; enfeoffed as Marquis of Fanyang (211), later Prince of Pengcheng (232); held the princedom into the 260s.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Qin; Prince of Chenliu; courtesy name Zi'an; died 259; posthumously Prince Gong.

Cao Ren's second son; enfeoffed as marquis under Wei.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Du; enfeoffed as Marquis, later Prince of Pei; died 256.

Fourth emperor of Cao Wei, grandson of Cao Pi, who attempted to kill Sima Zhao but was killed by Cheng Ji in 260 CE. Famous for the phrase 'Sima Zhao's heart is known to all.'

First Emperor of Cao Wei, known for forcing Emperor Xian's abdication and his pioneering contributions to Chinese literary criticism.

Cousin of Cao Cao and master of defensive warfare, famous for his stubborn defense of Jiangling against Zhou Yu and his heroic stand at Fan Castle against Guan Yu, who rose to Great General—one of Cao Wei's highest military ranks—and earned the posthumous title Marquis Zhong for his unwavering loyalty.

Second emperor of Cao Wei, posthumously Emperor Ming; reigned 226–239, defended against Zhuge Liang's Northern Expeditions and oversaw construction of Luoyang palaces.

Cao Wei regent and general who dominated the court with Sima Yi after Cao Rui's death; was overthrown and executed by Sima Yi in the Gaopingling coup of 249.

Cao Ren's eldest son; succeeded to his father's marquisate; General Who Guards the East; served at Shiting and in campaigns against Wu.

Cao Pi's son by Lady Li; died young; posthumously enfeoffed as Duke of Jing (231) and Prince Ai of Zan (234); his son Cao Xun inherited the princedom.

Cao Wei general and Cao Cao's clan son, called 'thousand li colt' by Cao Cao, who defeated Wu Lan at Xiabian, achieved victory at Dongkou, but was defeated at Shiting and died of shame.

Cao Cao's son; mother Lady Qin; enfeoffed Marquis of Xi District (211); died young; posthumously Prince Huai of Jiyang.

Cao Cao's son by Lady Huan; Prince of Yan; father of Cao Huan (Emperor Yuan of Wei); served briefly as General-in-Chief in 238–239; lived into the Jin dynasty.

Cao Wei general and Cao Cao's fourth son, called 'Yellow Beard' by Cao Cao, who defeated the Wuhuan in Dai Commandery and subdued Kebineng, achieving the rank of King of Rencheng.

Cao Wei general and Cao Cao's clan son, one of four regents, who successfully defended against Zhuge Liang's Northern Expeditions, predicted the attack on Chencang, and achieved the rank of Grand Marshal.

Cao Cao's third son by Lady Bian; poet and writer ranked with Cao Cao and Cao Pi as 'Three Caos'; lost the succession for drink and indiscipline; under Cao Pi and Cao Rui was moved between fiefs and repeatedly sought employment—famous for 'seven-step poem' and 'Luoshen fu.'

Son of Cao Cao and Consort Li; died young; posthumously honoured with a ducal title under Cao Rui.

Son of Cao Cao and Consort Li; died young; posthumously honoured with a ducal title under Cao Rui.

Son of Cao Cao and Consort Sun; died young without heirs; posthumously honoured in 231 as Duke Shang of Gang.

Son of Cao Cao and Consort Sun; died young without heirs; posthumously honoured in 231 as Duke Shang of Linyi.

Son of Cao Cao and Consort Li; died young; posthumously honoured with a ducal title under Cao Rui.

Cao Wei official and Minister of Works who originally had the surname Liu, was known for his eloquence and strict adherence to law, and helped establish Cao Pi as successor.

Cao Wei senior official and Minister over the Masses who created the Nine-rank system and helped establish Wei's legal system.

Wei general; son of Chen Qun; defended the western frontier against Jiang Wei; died at Yong Province after the fall of Tazhong.

Cao Wei strategist and one of Cao Cao's Five Advisors, known for defending three cities during the Yanzhou rebellion.

Cao Cao's concubine (李姬); mentioned in the Records of the Three Kingdoms among his consorts.

Cao Cao's concubine (孙姬); bore him daughters including Cao Jie (Empress Xian), Cao Xian, and Cao Hua, who became Han imperial consorts.

Cao Wei official and Commandant of the Capital who advised [Yuan Shao](/yuan-shao) to bury the dead and support the court, and supported [Cao Pi](/cao-pi) as heir; executed after a letter was misread.

Cao Wei general who conquered Shu Han through the daring Yinping crossing, defeated Jiang Wei multiple times, and was killed by Zhong Hui and Wei Guan's conspiracy after his great victory.

Cao Wei bodyguard known for great strength who died protecting Cao Cao at Wancheng.

Cao Wei strategist and key advisor to Cao Cao, Cao Pi, and Cao Rui, known for helping Cao Cao become Duke of Wei and King of Wei.

Cao Wei official who served as Administrator of Hedong for sixteen years and was known for excellent governance.

Cao Wei official who defended Xi'e against Liu Biao, oversaw the Hanzhong migration, and with Guo Huai supported Zhang He after Xiahou Yuan's death.

Cao Pi's consort who became empress in 221 after Empress Zhen's death; styled Nüwang; posthumously Empress Wende; died in 235.

Yuan Xi's wife; after Ye fell became Cao Pi's consort and mother of Cao Rui; forced to commit suicide in 221 when Cao Pi favoured Empress Guo; posthumously honoured as Empress Wenzhao.

Cao Wei official and Grand Commandant who served five Wei emperors, served as Court of Judicial Review for twenty-three years, and participated in the Gaopingling Incident.

Late Han and Cao Wei era hermit and scholar from Beihai; fled to Liaodong, taught classics under Gongsun Du; refused all Wei appointments; famed for 'cutting the mat' with Hua Xin.

Cao Wei general who campaigned against Gongsun Yuan and Goguryeo, then rebelled against Sima Shi in defence of the Wei dynasty.

Cao Wei general who defended against Shu for many years, particularly against Jiang Wei's campaigns, known for his strategic ability.

Cao Cao's brilliant strategist and Army Advisor, known for his Ten Victories and Ten Defeats analysis, who died young at age 38 in 207 CE, prompting [Cao Cao](/cao-cao)'s famous lament: 'If Guo Fengxiao were here, I would not have come to this.'

Cao Wei general who helped establish military colonies and commanded the palace guards together with Shi Huan.

Cao Wei Grand Master of Ceremonies and Minister over the Masses who introduced water-powered bellows to smelting and moved the Wei ancestral temples from Ye to Luoyang.

Cao Wei official and Grand Tutor to the heir; pacified bandits in Changguang and Le'an, advocated flexible application of new laws, and refused to yield to Ding Yi.

Cao Wei senior official and Grand Commandant who served Han and Wei, known for his integrity and participation in the Han-Wei transition.

Cao Wei official who helped Cao Cao become Duke of Wei and strongly supported Cao Pi as successor.

Shu Han general who served Liu Zhang, Liu Bei, and later Cao Wei, famous for opposing Liu Bei's entry into Yi Province, planning the Hanzhong campaign, and surrendering to Wei after being cut off at Yiling.

Cao Wei strategist and Grand Commandant who served multiple lords, known for 'Wenhe's chaos' after Dong Zhuo's death, who twice defeated Cao Cao under Zhang Xiu before joining him, and lived to age 77.

Cao Wei strategist and Grand Commandant who served under Cao Cao, Cao Pi, Cao Rui, and Cao Fang, known for participating in the Gaopingling Incident.

Cao Cao's principal wife and mother of Cao Pi, Cao Zhang, Cao Zhi, and Cao Xiong; posthumously honoured as Empress Dowager and Empress Wuxuan by Cao Pi.

Xiahou Yuan's wife; sister or cousin of Cao Cao's wife Lady Ding (内妹); mother of Xiahou Heng, Xiahou Ba, and other sons.

Cao Cao's concubine; formerly wife of Qin Yilu (Lü Bu's officer); taken at Xiapi; mother of Cao Lin, Cao Gun, and Jinxiang Princess.

Cao Cao's concubine; mother of Cao Chong, Cao Ju (Prince of Pengcheng), and Cao Yu (Prince of Yan).

Cao Cao's concubine; originally a maid of the Ding family; mother of Cao Ang, who died at Wancheng in 197.

Cao Cao's concubine; mother of Cao Xuan and Cao Jun.

Cao Cao's concubine; mother of Cao Ju (曹矩), who died young and was posthumously honoured as Prince Min of Fanyang.

Sima Yi's wife; née Zhang Chunhua; mother of Sima Shi, Sima Zhao, and Sima Gan; killed a maid to protect Sima Yi's feigned illness; posthumously Empress Xuanmu.

Cao Wei general known for being scholarly and putting aside personal grudges, who participated in the Battle of Hefei with Zhang Liao and Yue Jin.

Cao Wei Governor of Bing Province for over twenty years; pacified the region after Gao Gan's defeat and was known for 'Liang Xi zhi zui' (best governance).

Cao Wei Director of the Palace Secretariat who with Sun Zi controlled state secrets under Cao Pi and Cao Rui; advised defensive strategy against Shu and supported recalling Sima Yi at Cao Rui's deathbed.

Cao Wei strategist who served under Cao Cao, Cao Pi, and Cao Rui, known for his strategic predictions and ability to read people.

Cao Wei general who served as Administrator of Taishan for more than ten years, known for his authority and kindness.

Cao Wei general and Grand Commandant known for strict law enforcement and defending against Wu, especially at Hefei.

Cao Wei official who urged [Cao Cao](/cao-cao) to 'hold the Son of Heaven to command the disobedient' and with [Cui Yan](/cui-yan) oversaw selection, fostering a culture of frugality.

Cao Wei general who died fighting against Guan Yu at Fancheng, known for his loyalty and refusal to surrender.

Cao Wei official and Director of the Masters of Writing who pacified Dai Commandery and was known for his frugality and administrative ability.

Wei general; served on the northern and eastern frontiers; contemporary of Tian Yu and Man Chong; mentioned in SGZ with them.

Cao Wei general who commanded the palace guards together with Han Hao and participated in campaigns against Sui Gu and Yuan Shao.

Sima Yi's younger brother; senior Wei and Jin official who remained loyal to the Wei emperor during the Sima takeover; Grand Marshal under Jin; posthumously honoured as Emperor An of Jin's 'Uncle of the State.'

Sima Yi's fifth son; held ceremonial and civil posts under Wei and Jin; survived into the late Western Jin; died in 311.

Sima Yi's seventh son; one of Lady Fu's four sons with Sima Liang, Sima Zhou, and Sima Jun; held nobility and office under Jin.

Sima Yi's eighth son; Prince of Fufeng under Jin; participated in pacifying rebellions during Emperor Wu's reign; died in 286.

Cao Wei official and Inspector of Yan Province; eldest of the 'Eight Da' of the Sima clan; fled [Dong Zhuo](/dong-zhuo), served [Cao Cao](/cao-cao); advocated prefectural troops and well-field; died of plague at Juchao 217.

Sima Yi's third son; Prince of Runan under Jin; briefly regent for Emperor Hui in 291; executed the same year after being falsely accused of plotting against the court.

Sima Yi's sixth son; Prince of Liang under Jin; held military and regional posts; died in 302 during the turmoil preceding the War of the Eight Princes.

Cao Wei regent and Sima Yi's eldest son, who participated in the Gaopingling Incident, deposed Cao Fang, suppressed the Guanqiu Jian and Wen Qin rebellion, and was posthumously titled Emperor Jing of Jin.

Sima Fu's son and Sima Yi's nephew; Wei and Jin general; General Who Conquers the West; defended against Jiang Wei's campaigns; enfeoffed as Prince of Yiyang under Jin.

Wei strategist and regent famous for extraordinary patience, who defended against all five of Zhuge Liang's Northern Expeditions and executed the Gaoping Tombs coup, establishing his family's path to founding the Jin Dynasty.

Cao Wei regent and Sima Yi's second son, famous for the phrase 'Sima Zhao's heart, everyone knows,' who conquered Shu Han and was posthumously titled Emperor Wen of Jin.

Cao Wei official known for strict law enforcement and integrity; as Magistrate of Guan forced the powerful Liu Jie to send a substitute for conscription; later Grand Minister of Agriculture.

Sima Yi's fourth son; Prince of Langye under Jin; grandfather of Sima Rui, founder of the Eastern Jin dynasty; died in 283.

General under Zang Ba; campaigned with him in Xu and the east; served Cao Cao after Zang Ba's submission.

Cao Wei general and Minister over the Masses who was known for his integrity and bravery, fought at Shiting and Shaopo, and had conflicts with Cao Shuang.

Cao Wei Director of the Secretariat who with Liu Fang controlled state secrets under Cao Pi and Cao Rui; advised defensive strategy against Shu and supported recalling Sima Yi at Cao Rui's deathbed.

Cao Wei general who served under Liu Bei before joining Cao Cao, known for defending against northern tribes and his integrity.

Cao Wei senior official and Minister of Works who served as Administrator of Kuaiji and was known as a Confucian scholar.

Cao Wei general and Grand Commandant; Governor of Yan Province at Shouchun; plotted in 251 to replace Cao Fang with Cao Biao and rebel against Sima Yi; discovered and forced to commit suicide.

Cao Wei official and classical scholar; son of Wang Lang; courtesy name Ziyong; served as Palace Attendant, Grand Master of Ceremonies, Central Army Leader; daughter married Sima Zhao; opposed Zheng Xuan's school.

Wei official; served in the same period as Lu Qian; known for scholarship or administration; mentioned in the SGZ with Lü Qian and Xiahou Yuan.

Cao Wei official and Minister of Works who served three generations of Cao rulers and was known for his integrity and strategic insight.

Cao Wei Inspector of Yang and Liang Provinces who predicted Guan Yu's attack on Fancheng and urged Pei Qian to march quickly to relieve Cao Ren.

Cao Wei general who served under Liu Biao before joining Cao Cao, known for defending Jiangxia against Wu for decades and his loyalty.

Xiahou Yuan's son; courtesy name Shuquan; killed a tiger at 16; favoured by Cao Cao and Cao Pi; died at 18.

Xiahou Dun's eldest son; succeeded to his father's Marquisate of Gao'an Township after Xiahou Dun's death in 220.

One of Cao Cao's most trusted generals and possibly his cousin, famous for losing his eye in battle and allegedly eating it, serving with unwavering loyalty for 36 years.

Xiahou Yuan's son; courtesy name Yiquan; skilled debater; Administrator of Henan, Grand Master of Ceremonies; died the same year as his father (219).

Xiahou Yuan's eldest son; succeeded to Marquis of Bochang Pavilion; died at the Battle of Mount Dingjun (219) with his father.

Xiahou Dun's daughter; married Cao Zhang (Cao Cao's son); distinct from Xiahou Hui, son of Xiahou Yuan.

Xiahou Yuan's son; courtesy name Zhiquan; skilled in memorials and debates; Administrator of Yan and Le'an; died at 37.

Xiahou Dun's younger brother; enfeoffed as marquis in recognition of Xiahou Dun's achievements.

Xiahou Dun's son; married Cao Cao's daughter Princess Qinghe; General Who Pacifies the West under Wei; favoured by Cao Rui; stripped of command after poor performance against Shu.

Xiahou Yuan's son; talented scholar; died at 13 at the Battle of Mount Dingjun (219) with his father.

Xiahou Yuan's nephew; Cao Wei general; General Who Conquers the South and Governor of Jing Province; fought at Jiangling and Fancheng; married a Cao princess; died in 225.

Xiahou Yuan's son; Inspector of Jing Province and Inspector of Yan Province; died at 49.

Xiahou Shang's son; Cao Wei Minister over the Masses and General Who Conquers the West; one of the 'Four Intelligent Men'; plotted with Li Feng to remove Sima Shi; executed in 254.

Younger cousin of Xiahou Dun and one of Cao Cao's most trusted generals, famous for rapid warfare and killed by Huang Zhong at the Battle of Mount Dingjun in 219 CE.

Son of Xiahou Dun; posthumously granted the title Marquis of the Interior.

Son of Xiahou Dun; posthumously granted the title Marquis of the Interior.

Cao Wei minister who urged [Cao Cao](/cao-cao) to attack Yuan Shang, pulled [Cao Pi](/cao-pi)'s robe over the great migration, and held the staff at Wuzhangyuan to restrain Sima Yi.

Cao Wei bodyguard known as Tiger Fool, who protected Cao Cao and later Cao Pi and Cao Rui.

Cao Wei general and one of the Five Elite; served Yang Feng, then Cao Cao—broke Yuan Shao's supply at Gushi, crossed at Puban against Ma Chao, and in 219 relieved Fan by defeating Guan Yu with a feint at Weitou and a strike at Sizhong; praised for 'Zhou Yafu's style.'

Adviser to Liu Bei who recommended Zhuge Liang as 'Crouching Dragon'; left for Cao Cao after his mother was captured (or a forged letter); swore not to give Cao Cao strategy; served Wei in office but did not advise.

Cao Wei official known for loyalty and integrity; refused Sun Ce's summons, served Cao Cao; Long History guarding Chang'an, Director of the Masters of Writing; replaced Yang Jun as Commandant of the Capital after Wei Feng's rebellion; died 219.

Cao Cao's strategist and Director of the Imperial Secretariat, known for his twelve secret strategies and crucial tactical advice at Guandu, who died on campaign against Sun Quan in 214 CE.

Cao Cao's chief strategist and chancellor, known as 'My Zifang,' who served as Han Imperial Court's Minister over the Masses for decades and died opposing Cao Cao's elevation to Duke of Wei in 212 CE.

Yu Jin's son; succeeded to his father's marquisate (Marquis of Yishou Pavilion) after Yu Jin's death in 221.

One of Cao Wei's Five Elite Generals, renowned for strict military discipline and unwavering enforcement of law, who surrendered to Guan Yu at Fan Castle in 219 and died in shame after being humiliated by Cao Pi in 221 CE.

One of Cao Wei's Five Elite Generals and the first to follow Cao Cao, renowned for his fierce courage and many 'first to scale' achievements, who died in 218 CE after a distinguished career spanning three decades.

Son of Yue Jin; Inspector of Yang Province; killed by Zhuge Dan during his rebellion; posthumously honoured as Marquis Min.

Grandson of Yue Jin, son of Yue Lin; succeeded to Marquis of Guangchang Pavilion after his father was killed in 257.

Cao Wei general who was originally a local magnate ruling independently in the east, known for filial piety and bravery.

Wei officer; served with Han Hao and others under Cao Cao; mentioned in SGZ in connection with Han Hao and Xiahou Dun.

One of Cao Wei's Five Elite Generals, famous for his tactical adaptability and battlefield planning, who achieved victory at Jieting against Ma Su and died pursuing Zhuge Liang's forces at Mumen Dao in 231 CE.

Cao Wei general who killed the Wuhuan chanyu Tadun at White Wolf Mountain (207), then with eight hundred men broke Sun Quan's siege of Hefei (215) and chased him to the Xiaoyao ford—'Zhang Liao stops the crying.'

Eldest son of Zhang He; inherited the Marquis of Mo title after his father's death in 231.

Cao Wei official and Minister over the Masses who reconciled Yu Jin, Yue Jin, and Zhang Liao and was the only civil official to serve with all Five Elite Generals.

Cao Wei strategist, scholar, and calligrapher who conquered Shu Han together with Deng Ai, falsely accused Deng Ai of rebellion, then rebelled himself and was killed in the ensuing mutiny.

Cao Wei senior official, Grand Tutor, and famous calligrapher who pacified Guanzhong and helped establish Wei's legal system.

Wei general and cousin of Zhuge Liang; rebelled at Shouchun (257) with Wu support; was defeated and killed by Sima Zhao's forces.

Shu Han general who commanded Liu Bei's elite White Feather troops, ranked second only to Zhao Yun, known for loyalty and bravery.

Shu Han official and Director of the Masters of Writing; raised by Xu Jing; succeeded Dong Yun as Palace Attendant; worked with Huang Hao; opposed Qiao Zhou's anti-war stance; died 258.

Shu Han general who served as a decoy with Zhao Yun in the Northern Expeditions and later as envoy to Wu; rose to General of the Guard and Senior General.

Shu Han official and one of the Four Excellencies, known for opposing Huang Hao and keeping him in check, who served as Palace Attendant and Director of the Imperial Secretariat.

Liu Bei's principal wife and only formal empress; née Wu; formerly married to Liu Mao; became Queen of Hanzhong (219) and was posthumously Empress Mu; died 245.

Zhang Fei's daughter and sister of Empress Jing'ai; became Liu Shan's empress in 238 and served until the fall of Shu Han in 263.

Zhang Fei's daughter; married Liu Shan in 221; became Empress of Shu Han in 223; posthumously Empress Jing'ai; died in 237.

Liu Bei's strategist and Director of the Imperial Secretariat, who helped conquer Yi Province and Hanzhong, planned the killing of Xiahou Yuan at Dingjunshan, and was the only person to receive a posthumous title during Liu Bei's lifetime.

Shu Han chancellor and one of the Four Excellencies, known for his friendly and trusting nature, who was assassinated by Wei defector Guo Xiu at a New Year's banquet.

Guan Yu's eldest son; captured with his father west of Maicheng by Sun Quan's forces; executed at Linju in 220.

Guan Yu's daughter; Sun Quan requested a marriage alliance with her for his son; Guan Yu refused and insulted the envoy.

Guan Yu's second son; served Shu Han as Palace Attendant; inherited his father's marquisate; died young.

Shu Han general renowned for loyalty and righteousness, known as 'Match for Ten Thousand' and famous for his beautiful beard.

Shu Han eunuch favoured by Liu Shan; wielded influence over the emperor; opposed Jiang Wei and was blamed for corruption and the fall of Shu.

Huang Zhong's son; died young during Liu Bei's campaign in Yi Province.

Legendary veteran general famous for exceptional vigor in old age, who killed Xiahou Yuan at the Battle of Mount Dingjun at age seventy-one and became one of Liu Bei's Five Tiger Generals.

Shu Han official and diplomat who served Liu Bei from his early days, known for his wit, informality, and successful persuasion of Liu Zhang to surrender.

Shu Han chancellor who succeeded Zhuge Liang, known for his calm and steady leadership and for being one of the Four Excellencies of Shu Han.

Shu Han general who defected from Wei in 228, succeeded Zhuge Liang as military leader, conducted multiple northern campaigns, held Jiange against Zhong Hui, then attempted to use Zhong Hui's rebellion to restore Han and was killed in the ensuing riot.

Liu Bei's concubine and mother of Liu Shan; died c. 210; posthumously honoured as Empress Zhaolie when Liu Shan became emperor.

Zhuge Liang's wife; daughter of the scholar Huang Chengyan; said to have been learned and to have matched her husband in talent; mother of Zhuge Zhan.

Sister of Mi Zhu and Mi Fang, given in marriage to Liu Bei when he was in difficulty; provided crucial support through the Mi family's wealth; died or was lost in the chaos of the retreat from Changban.

Xiahou Yuan's niece; captured by Zhang Fei in 200 while gathering firewood; became his wife; mother of Empress Zhang (Jing'ai) and Empress Zhang; requested proper burial for Xiahou Yuan (219).

Shu Han general and minister who helped establish the Shu Code with Zhuge Liang and Fa Zheng; later stripped of rank for failing to supply the Northern Expedition and exiled to Zitong.

Shu Han general who served from the late Eastern Han through the fall of Shu, known for the saying 'Shu has no great generals, Liao Hua leads the vanguard.'

Shu Han official whom Zhuge Liang called 'a fine talent of Chu' with Pang Tong; demoted and exiled for criticising Liu Bei and the court.

Shu Han Minister of the Interior who drafted the Shu Code, proposed coinage reform, and was praised by Zhuge Liang for his strategic planning.

Founding emperor of Shu Han, known for his benevolence, righteousness, and the Oath of the Peach Garden with Guan Yu and Zhang Fei.

Liu Bei's adopted son; a general of Shu Han who did not send relief to Guan Yu during the siege of Fancheng. After Guan Yu's death Liu Bei blamed him; he was ordered to commit suicide in 220.

Liu Bei's son; Prince of Liang under Shu Han; died before Shu's fall; his son Liu Xuan succeeded to the marquisate and was taken to Luoyang after 263.

Last emperor of Shu Han who reigned for 41 years, known for surrendering to Wei in 263 and the phrase 'This is happy, no need to think of Shu' (乐不思蜀).

Liu Shan's Crown Prince; son of Lady Wang; killed in 264 during Zhong Hui's rebellion at Chengdu alongside Jiang Wei and other Shu officials.

Liu Li's son and Liu Bei's grandson; succeeded to the marquisate of Anping after his father's death (244); taken to Luoyang after Shu's fall in 263.

Liu Bei's son; Prince of Lu under Shu Han; sent to guard the eastern border; later demoted and moved; died or was killed after Huang Hao slandered him to Liu Shan.

Eldest of the Five Ma brothers; brother of Ma Liang and Ma Su; courtesy name contained the character 'chang'.

Son of Ma Liang; enfeoffed as Commandant of the Cavalry after his father's death at the Battle of Yiling.

Northwestern cavalry commander of aristocratic lineage, famous as 'Splendid Ma Chao' for his magnificent appearance, who led a fierce rebellion against Cao Cao at Tong Pass in 211 CE before joining Liu Bei as one of the Five Tiger Generals.

Shu Han general and cousin of Ma Chao who followed Ma Chao to Liu Bei, served in the Northern Expeditions, and killed Wei Yan on Yang Yi's order after Zhuge Liang's death.

Shu Han Palace Attendant and diplomat, one of the 'Five Ma brothers,' known for his white eyebrows and diplomatic skills, died at the Battle of Yiling.

Third of the Five Ma brothers; brother of Ma Liang and Ma Su; courtesy name contained the character 'chang'.

Shu Han general and strategist, younger brother of Ma Liang, known for the Jieting defeat and the saying 'words exceed reality.' Executed by Zhuge Liang in 228 CE.

Second of the Five Ma brothers; brother of Ma Liang and Ma Su; courtesy name contained the character 'chang'.

Son of Mi Zhu; Commandant of the Tiger Guard under Shu Han; skilled in horsemanship and archery.

Shu Han official and wealthy merchant who provided crucial financial support to Liu Bei in his early days, ranked highest among all Shu Han officials.

Pang Tong's son; served Shu Han as Administrator of Fuling.

Pang Tong's brother; initially served Shu Han; defected to Wei after Liu Bei's defeat at Yiling (222).

Brilliant strategist earning the epithet 'Young Phoenix' paired with Zhuge Liang's 'Crouching Dragon,' whose exceptional intelligence contrasted dramatically with his plain appearance, who served as Liu Bei's chief strategist during the conquest of Yi Province before dying tragically at age thirty-six at the Battle of Luo County in 214 CE.

Shu Han official who rose from disgrace under Liu Zhang to become治中从事 under Liu Bei, then was executed after his intemperate words to Ma Chao were reported.

Shu Han Grand Minister of Agriculture and scholar known for his wit and debate skills, particularly his famous conversation with Zhang Wen of Eastern Wu.

Shu Han official and diplomat who served Liu Bei from his early days, known for his diplomatic missions and trusted service.

Shu Han general who defected from Cao Wei during the Hanzhong Campaign, famous for his role at Jieting where he saved Ma Su's forces, and for defending Xing Shi against Cao Shuang despite being illiterate.

Shu Han general who was made Hanzhong administrator instead of Zhang Fei (219), won at Yangxi (230), proposed the Ziwu Valley plan, and after Zhuge Liang's death clashed with Yang Yi over the retreat—killed as a 'rebel' though the record states he intended only to remove Yang Yi, not defect.

Xiahou Yuan's son; Wei general who defected to Shu Han after the Gaoping Tombs Coup (249) because his cousin Xiahou Xuan was killed with Cao Shuang; served Jiang Wei in the Northern Expeditions.

Shu Han Minister over the Masses and famous scholar who served multiple lords before joining Liu Bei, known for his reputation and character evaluation skills.

Son of Xu Jing; died before his father, the Shu Han Minister over the Masses.

Shu Han general and Chief Clerk who clashed with Wei Yan; after Zhuge Liang's death he commanded the retreat and had Wei Yan killed, then was exiled and committed suicide.

Shu Han official and diplomat who compiled the Shu Code with Zhuge Liang and others, known for his quick wit and diplomatic skills.

Zhang Fei's eldest son; died young; his son Zhang Zun served as Master of Writing in Shu and was killed in 263 during the Wei conquest.

Shu Han general renowned as 'Match for Ten Thousand', known for his fierce courage and the legendary feat of holding the bridge at Changban.

Zhang Fei's second son; inherited his father's marquis title after Zhang Bao's early death; served as Supervisor of the Masters of Writing under Shu Han; enfeoffed by Wei after 263.

Shu Han general who opposed Jiang Wei's northern campaigns, served as Administrator of multiple commanderies, defended Jiange during the Wei conquest of Shu, and was killed in Zhong Hui's rebellion.

Younger son of Zhao Yun; General of the Standard; died in battle at Tazhong while following Jiang Wei.

Elder son of Zhao Yun; inherited his father's marquis title; served as Tiger Guard Colonel-Director and Commander of the Army.

Shu Han general renowned for loyalty and courage, serving Liu Bei for nearly thirty years and twice rescuing the future emperor Liu Shan.

Chancellor of Shu Han and legendary strategist, renowned for the Longzhong Plan and his six Northern Expeditions to restore the Han dynasty.

Zhuge Jin's son, adopted by Zhuge Liang as heir; Chief Commandant of Escorting Cavalry; accompanied Zhuge Liang to Hanzhong; died young in 228.

Zhuge Liang's biological son; General of the Guards; died defending Mianzhu against Deng Ai in 263; his son Zhuge Shang fell with him; praised for loyalty.

Shu Han official and diplomat; served as envoy to Wu; contemporary of Liao Hua; mentioned in SGZ with Liao Hua and others.

Bu Zhi's son; Governor of Xiling under Sun Hao; rebelled and surrendered to Jin; defeated by Lu Kang and executed.

Sun Quan's favourite consort; relative of Bu Zhi; mother of Sun Luban and Sun Luyu; posthumously honoured as empress in 238.

Bu Zhi's son; succeeded to his father's marquisate; General Who Comforts the Army under Eastern Wu.

Eastern Wu chancellor and general; pacified Jiao Province, killed Wu Ju, received Shi Xie; defended Yiyang during [Liu Bei](/liu-bei)'s invasion; long-time Governor of Xiling; succeeded Lu Xun as Chancellor; died 247.

Eastern Wu general, son of Chen Wu; companion to Sun Deng with Zhuge Ke and Gu Tan; succeeded to his father's troops and died young.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; from Lujiang; supervised Lujiang troops after Sun Ce broke Liu Xun; campaigned against Shanyue; died at Hefei 215.

Chen Wu's eldest son; died before succeeding to his father's position; Chen Biao succeeded instead.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; served Sun Jian, Sun Ce, and Sun Quan; right commander with Zhou Yu at Chibi; broke Cao Ren at Nan Commandery; died 210.

Cheng Pu's son; enfeoffed as marquis after Sun Quan became emperor, in recognition of Cheng Pu's merit.

Eastern Wu general and one of the Twelve Tiger Generals of Jiangdong, famous for the 'snow battle' at Dongxing, who served all Wu emperors and achieved the rank of Right Grand Marshal.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; from Kuaiji; beheaded Huang Longluo and Zhou Bo; cut the cables at Jiangxia so Sun Quan could defeat Huang Zu; drowned at Ruxu refusing to abandon his ship.

Sun Quan's favoured concubine; née Bu Lianshi; mother of Sun Luban and Sun Luyu; not made empress in life; posthumously honoured as empress in 238.

Sun Quan's only formally installed empress; née Pan Shu; mother of Sun Liang; rose from the textile workshop; empress 251–252; died possibly at the hands of attendants.

Sun Quan's first wife; from a noted Kuaiji family; recommended by Lady Wu; lost favour when she refused to accommodate Lady Xu; died young, reportedly of grief.

Sun Quan's concubine; cousin through Sun Jian's sister; adoptive mother of Crown Prince Sun Deng; passed over for empress in 229 in favour of Lady Bu; died after 229.

Eastern Wu general and former 'Brocade Sails' outlaw who urged attack on Huang Zu, held Yiling under siege, took Wan with Lü Meng, faced Guan Yu at Yiyang, and led a hundred riders in a night raid on Cao Cao's camp at Ruxu.

Eastern Wu general; grandson of Gu Yong, son of Gu Shao, nephew of Lu Xun; fought at Quebei with Zhang Xiu; exiled to Jiao Province in the Two Palaces conflict; died at thirty-seven.

Gu Yong's son and Gu Cheng's father; married a sister of Lu Xun; died young; his sons Gu Tan and Gu Cheng became prominent Wu officials.

Eastern Wu official and elder brother of Gu Cheng; companion to Sun Deng with Zhuge Ke and Zhang Xiu; supported Sun He in the Two Palaces conflict, slandered by Quan Cong's faction, exiled to Jiao Province.

Eastern Wu Chancellor who served for nineteen years, known for his silence, not drinking, and selecting officials based on ability rather than personal preference.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; served Sun Jian, Sun Ce, and Sun Quan; rescued Huang Gai at Chibi; at Yiling with Lu Xun; son Han Zong defected to Wei.

Han Dang's son; succeeded to his father's rank and troops; defected to Wei in 227 with his mother; raided Wu borders; killed at Dongxing.

Son of He Qi; sent as envoy to Gongsun Yuan in 233; killed by Gongsun Yuan.

Brother of He Shao; Magistrate of Wanling; in 272 was slandered by Xi Xi, arrested, and later released on amnesty.

Son of He Qi; Colonel Who Destroys Bandits; father of He Shao; strict and caring to his troops; died early.

Eastern Wu general who pacified the Shanyue across the south; took Linye by night climb; rescued Sun Quan at Xiaoyao Ford; his fine fleet deterred Cao Xiu at Dongkou; died 227.

Eastern Wu minister; grandson of He Qi; 227–275; Sun Xiu: 散骑中常侍; Sun Hao: 吴郡太守 (defied Gu–Lu), 中书令领太子太傅; remonstrated Sun Hao, then killed on suspicion of feigning illness.

Eastern Wu historian and official; 219–278; 字永先; 与韦曜薛莹等撰《吴书》; 徐陵亭侯; 屡谏孙皓、荐陆胤陆祎、乞赦楼玄救韦曜请还薛莹; 上书百余; 275 免官, 278 卒.

Eastern Wu general, one of the Twelve Tiger Generals of Jiangdong, who proposed and executed the fire attack at Chibi, personally feigning surrender to Cao Cao.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; from Jiujiang; pacified bandits with Sun Ce; General Who Pacifies the Caitiffs and Ruxu Commander; Right Protector of the Army; died on return from campaign against Guan Yu.

Eastern Wu scholar and minister; expert in the Dry Elephant calendar; Grand Tutor to the Heir; opposed cruel punishment for Lü Yi; Romance: delivered false surrender letter to Cao Cao, recommended Lu Xun.

Elder of the Two Qiaos; married Sun Ce around 199; sister of Xiao Qiao (Zhou Yu's wife).

Younger of the Two Qiaos; married Zhou Yu around 199; sister of Da Qiao (Sun Ce's wife).

Sun Quan's sister; married Liu Bei in 209 to cement the Sun–Liu alliance; known for a martial disposition and armed retinue; returned to Eastern Wu around 211; her attempt to take Liu Shan to Wu was intercepted by Zhao Yun and Zhang Fei (Romance).

Sun Jian's principal wife; from Wu Commandery; mother of Sun Ce, Sun Quan, Sun Yi, Sun Kuang, and Lady Sun; posthumously Empress Wulie (229).

Zhang Wen's younger sister; Gu Cheng's wife; after his exile she remarried but took poison and died on the wedding day.

Eastern Wu pioneer under Sun Ce; father of Ling Tong; Magistrate of Yongping, pacified Shanyue; 203 vanguard at Jiangxia, first into Xiakou, killed by stray arrow (Wu shu: Gan Ning).

Ling Tong's younger son; raised in Sun Quan's palace; succeeded to his brother Ling Lie's rank and troops after Ling Lie was stripped for crime.

Ling Tong's eldest son; raised in Sun Quan's palace with his brother; enfeoffed as marquis and given his father's troops; later stripped of title for crime; rank passed to Ling Feng.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; son of Ling Cao (killed by Gan Ning); protected Sun Quan at Xiaoyao Ford;亲贤接士、轻财重义; died aged 29.

Liu Zan's son; Eastern Wu general; served under Sun Liang and Sun Jun.

Liu Zan's son; Eastern Wu general; served under Sun Liang and Sun Jun.

Eastern Wu general; cut his own leg tendon to heal a wound; famous for loosening his hair and calling to heaven before battle; killed at Gubei aged seventy-three.

Eastern Wu official under Sun Hao who was accused together with He Shao of slandering state affairs; grouped by Lu Kang with upright officials who were pillars of the state.

Long-serving Eastern Wu general who campaigned against the Shanyue and in Jiao Province; succeeded Pan Zhang and held key commands into his eighties.

Eastern Wu Grand Marshal; early follower of Sun Ce; fetched Lady Wu from Jiangdu; suggested detaining Liu Bei; defeated at Dongkou by Cao Xiu; died before receiving Grand Marshal seal.

Son of Lü Fan; succeeded to his father's marquisate and became General of Agile Cavalry; served Eastern Wu until removed or killed in the succession struggles.

Eastern Wu official under Sun Hao; joined Hua He in opposing the construction of the Xianming Palace; listed by Lu Kang among upright officials who were pillars of the state.

Eastern Wu general and Lu Xun's son, the last great Wu general, who successfully defended against Jin at Xiling and maintained a famous friendship with Yang Hu.

Eastern Wu general who succeeded Lu Su at Lukou, feigned illness to lull Guan Yu, then crossed the river in disguise and took Nanjun, leading to Guan Yu's capture and death.

Wealthy patron turned chief strategist of Eastern Wu, architect of the Sun-Liu alliance, who proposed the Grand Strategy for Wu's independence and succeeded Zhou Yu as Chief Commander, serving with wisdom and generosity until his death at age forty-six in 217 CE.

Eastern Wu general and chancellor who defeated Liu Bei at Yiling (222), crushed Cao Xiu at Shiting (228), and died after the Two Palaces dispute in 245.

Eastern Wu general and official, Colonel of Ruxu; known for his memorials on relieving the people and for defending against Wei at Ruxu; died aged thirty-six.

Luo Tong's son; noted scholar; served as Inspector of Salt under Sun Xiu; killed by pirates in 264.

Shu Han general and younger brother of Mi Zhu who defected to Eastern Wu in 219; as Administrator of Nan Commandery he surrendered to Lü Meng, contributing to Guan Yu's defeat and capture.

Eastern Wu general and one of the Twelve Tiger Generals of Jiangdong, who captured Guan Yu at Linju, participated in the Battle of Yiling, and defended Jiangling.

Eastern Wu Chancellor; 字子元; 陈留外黄; 孙休时太常卫将军平军国事、浦里塘、丞相外黄侯; 与张布迎立孙皓; 264 万彧谮、流广州道杀夷三族.

Puyang Xing's father; fled to Jiangdong in the late Han; helped by Lu Mao; later Administrator of Changsha under Sun Quan.

Eastern Wu general and Right Grand Marshal; married [Sun Quan](/sun-quan)'s daughter Sun Luban; proposed attacking Guan Yu; fought at Dongkou, Shiting, and Quebei; Two Palaces—supported Sun Ba; sons slandered Gu Tan and Zhang Xiu.

Son of Quan Cong; supported Sun Ba in the Two Palaces conflict; slandered Gu Tan, Gu Cheng, and Zhang Xiu; executed in 250.

Quan Cong's father; Han and Eastern Wu official; Filial and Incorrupt; joined Sun Ce as Chief of Danyang; under Sun Quan became Long History and Administrator of Guiyang.

Son of Quan Cong and Sun Luban; enfeoffed as Marquis of the Capital Township.

Son of Quan Cong; general at the Battle of Quebei (241); with Quan Duan counterattacked after Zhang Xiu and Gu Cheng held the Wei advance.

Son of Quan Cong and Sun Luban; succeeded to Marquis of Qiantang; later surrendered to Wei at Shouchan during Zhuge Dan's rebellion.

Governor of Jiao Province who held the far south for decades; submitted to Sun Quan through Bu Zhi and was enfeoffed; his domain was a haven for scholars and refugees.

Jiangxia commander under Huang Zu; friend of Gan Ning; recommended him as Zhuxian magistrate so Gan Ning could defect to Sun Quan; captured 208, spared after Gan Ning begged Sun Quan.

Sun Quan's fourth son; enfeoffed as Prince of Lu (242); rival to Crown Prince Sun He in the Two Palaces conflict; forced to commit suicide in 250.

Sun Jian's nephew and Sun Qiang's son; led Sun Jian's forces after his death; served Sun Ce and Sun Quan as a general; enfeoffed as marquis.

The Little Conqueror who established the territorial foundation for Eastern Wu through brilliant campaigns, known for exceptional martial prowess and tragic early death at age 26.

Crown Prince of Eastern Wu and Sun Quan's eldest son, known for his virtue, talent, and early death at age 33 in 241 CE.

Son of Sun Ce; held princely rank under Sun Quan.

Last emperor of Eastern Wu and final emperor of the Three Kingdoms period, known for his cruelty and tyranny, who surrendered to Jin in 280 CE.

Son of Sun Quan and crown prince of Eastern Wu who was deposed in the succession struggle; father of Sun Hao, who posthumously honoured him as Emperor Wen.

Eastern Wu general and clansman; son of Sun He;孙权称宗室颜渊; 219 from Lü Meng against Guan Yu at Huarong; 222 Yiling with Lu Xun, besieged at Yidao, then cut off Liu Bei—almost captured him.

Son of Sun Shao; Administrator of Wuling under Eastern Wu.

Eastern Wu general and cousin of Sun Quan; son of Sun Jing; Colonel of the Guard, then General Who Conquers the Caitiffs, replaced Cheng Pu at Xiakou; 219 supported Lü Meng's capture of Jing; light on wealth, cared for the people.

Sun Jian's younger brother and uncle of Sun Ce and Sun Quan; stayed in Jiangdong to guard the family base; father of Sun Jiao and grandfather of Sun Jun.

Eastern Wu general and regent who overthrew Zhuge Ke in 253 and dominated the court under Sun Liang until his death in 256; cousin of Sun Lin who succeeded him.

Son of Sun Shao; Palace General of Agile Cavalry, Marquis of Lincheng under Wu; later served Jin as General of Chariots and Cavalry, Marquis of Danyang.

Sun Jian's fourth son; Sun Ce yielded him the Marquis of Wucheng; 197 formally succeeded to the title; recommended Filial and Incorrupt and茂才 but died before taking office, aged twenty-plus.

Sun Jian's son and Sun Quan's younger brother; left little trace in the historical record compared to Sun Ce and Sun Quan.

Second emperor of Eastern Wu, son of Sun Quan; reigned 252–258 as a minor under regents Zhuge Ke and Sun Jun, then was deposed by Sun Lin and replaced by Sun Xiu.

Eastern Wu regent after Sun Jun's death; deposed Sun Liang and installed Sun Xiu; was later removed and killed by Sun Xiu.

Elder daughter of Sun Quan, known as Princess Quan; married to Quan Cong and later to Zhu Ju; involved in the Two Palaces conflict and turned against Zhu Ju.

Sun Quan's daughter, sister of Sun Luban; wrongly killed by Sun Jun; Sun Liang later investigated her death and Sun Luban shifted blame to Zhu Xiong and Zhu Sun.

Sun Jiao's son; served as a general under Eastern Wu.

Founding Emperor of Eastern Wu and longest-reigning of the Three Kingdoms rulers, known for his victory at Red Cliffs and his distinctive green-blue eyes and purple beard.

Eastern Wu general and imperial clansman; né Yu; [Sun Ce](/sun-ce) gave him the surname Sun; 204 succeeded Sun He, defended Jingcheng; long-time northern border commander; 225 nearly captured [Cao Pi](/cao-pi).

Son of Sun Kuang; Colonel of the Long River under Eastern Wu; nephew of the Cao family through his mother.

Sun Jiao's son; succeeded to the Marquisate of Danyang after Sun Yin; later committed suicide; fief was removed.

Sun Jian's nephew and Sun Qiang's son; served under Sun Jian and later under Sun Ce and Sun Quan.

Third emperor of Eastern Wu, younger brother of Sun Liang; came to power in 258 after Sun Lin deposed Sun Liang; removed Sun Lin with Zhang Bu and Ding Feng, reigned until 264.

Sun Quan's younger brother (Sun Yu 孙翊); Administrator of Danyang; listed by Sun Deng among officials loyal to the state; assassinated by his subordinates in 203.

Son of Sun Shao; Minister of the Imperial Clan (宗正卿); distinct from Sun Yi 孙翊.

Sun Jiao's eldest son; enfeoffed as Marquis of Danyang after his father's death in 219.

Eastern Wu general; son of Sun Jing and elder brother of Sun Jiao; commanded troops in the Jiangxia area; Sun Jiao later merged his unit with Huang Gai's under unified command.

Son of Sun Shao; succeeded to Marquis of Jiande; Right General under Eastern Wu.

Eldest brother of Sun Huan; son of Sun He; Magistrate of Qu'e; died early.

Eastern Wu general from Donglai who repaid Kong Rong by breaking the siege of Duchang, dueled Sun Ce at Shenting, then served Sun Ce and Sun Quan and guarded the south against Liu Pan.

Wei Yao's son; had literary talent; mentioned in Wei Yao's biography.

Eastern Wu historian and official; 204–273; 字弘嗣; 本名韦昭, SGZ as 韦曜; 撰《吴书》; 孙皓时拒为孙和立本纪、以茶代酒; 273 下狱诛死.

Eastern Wu official and Grand Tutor to the Heir; saved hundreds of drowning soldiers at Dongkou; executed in the Two Palaces conflict for supporting Sun He and corresponding with Lu Xun.

Son of Xu Sheng; succeeded to his father's rank and troops after Xu Sheng's death in the Huangwu period.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; from Langye; defended with few against many at Chaisang and Dongkou; 'hundred-li false walls' at Guangling deterred Cao Pi; Marquis of Wuhu.

Eastern Wu historian and official who co-compiled the Wu shu with Wei Yao and Hua He; was exiled or demoted; Hua He requested his recall.

Eastern Wu scholar and official known for his direct remonstrance, expertise in the I Ching, and exile to Jiaozhou for his outspoken criticism of Sun Quan.

Eastern Wu general and minister; 孙休时左右督将、辅义将军永康侯、与丁奉谋诛孙綝、左将军中军督; 与濮阳兴迎立孙皓、骠骑将军加侍中; 264 悔而立皓、万彧谮、诛夷.

Eldest son of Zhang Zhao; Eastern Wu general and administrator; General of Vehement Might, Chief Controller of Ruxu; posthumously Marquis Ding.

Brother of Zhang Bu; enfeoffed as Marquis of Duting with three hundred troops after Sun Lin's fall in 258.

Eastern Wu strategist and man of letters; gave Sun Ce the 'Jiangdu discourse' on occupying Wu and Jing; persuaded Cao Cao not to attack after Sun Ce's death; advised capital at Moling; died on the way to fetch his family.

Son of Zhang Hong; presented his father's final memorial to Sun Quan after Zhang Hong died on the road.

Grandson of Zhang Hong, son of Zhang Xuan; Gentleman of the Palace and Director of the Secretariat under Sun Hao; executed for offending the emperor.

Eastern Wu official and envoy who was sent to Shu and criticised on his return; Luo Tong and others defended him in memorials to Sun Quan.

Eastern Wu general and official; son of Zhang Zhao; taught Sun Deng the Han shu; fought at Quebei with Gu Cheng; exiled then ordered to commit suicide in the Two Palaces conflict.

Son of Zhang Hong; Administrator of Nan Commandery, Master of Writing; upright but less talented than his father.

Brother of Zhang Bu; made Colonel after Sun Lin's fall in 258.

Eastern Wu senior adviser and one of the Two Zhangs of Jiangdong, known for his strict and direct remonstrance, who advocated surrendering to Cao Cao at Chibi and was never made Chancellor.

Zhou Tai's son; younger brother of Zhou Shao; succeeded to the Marquisate of Lingyang after Zhou Shao's death.

Zhou Yu's son; mentioned in the Sanguozhi among Zhou Yu's children.

Zhou Tai's son; Colonel of Cavalry; had merit against Cao Ren and Cao Xiu; General of the Side; died 230.

Eastern Wu general and 'Tiger of Jiangbiao'; from Jiujiang; repeatedly saved Sun Quan; twelve wounds at Xuancheng; Sun Quan showed his scars at Ruxu and gave him the royal canopy; Marquis of Lingyang.

Zhou Yu's uncle; served under Sun Ce with Zhou Yu.

Zhou Yu's son; married Sun Quan's daughter (Princess Quan); succeeded to his father's marquisate; led troops under Eastern Wu.

Zhou Yu's son; mentioned in connection with Sun Quan's court; Sun Quan showed leniency to him at Bu Zhi and Zhuge Jin's request.

Chief strategist for Sun Ce and Sun Quan, architect of the Red Cliffs victory, and renowned for exceptional handsomeness and musical talent, who died at age 36 while planning to conquer Yi Province.

Zhu Zhi's eldest son; succeeded to his father's marquisate; General of the Side; earned merit in battle alongside Zhu Zhi.

Eastern Wu general; from Wu; 222/223 at Ruxu with 5,000 defeated Cao Ren, killed Chang Diao, captured Wang Shuang; 228 at Shiting with Lu Xun; 前將軍; light on wealth, strong memory; died 238.

Zhu Zhi's son; married a daughter of Sun Ce; served as Colonel under Eastern Wu.

Eastern Wu official who supported Crown Prince Sun He in the Two Palaces conflict; remonstrated with Sun Quan and was exiled, then ordered to commit suicide.

Eastern Wu general and Sun Quan's childhood friend, who defended Jiangling for six months against Wei siege, participated in capturing Guan Yu, and achieved the rank of Left Grand Marshal.

Zhu Zhi's son; died young.

Zhu Zhi's son; died young.

Zhu Huan's son; General Who Spreads Martial Might; succeeded to his father's troops; defeated Wen Qin and defended against Wei invasions; executed by Sun Lin in 257 for refusing to relieve Zhuge Dan with exhausted troops.

Eastern Wu old retainer; served Sun Jian, Sun Ce, and Sun Quan; brought Lady Wu and Sun Quan from Qu'a; Administrator of Wu for over thirty years; died 224.

Elder brother of Zhuge Liang who served Eastern Wu as general and minister; maintained family ties across the Shu–Wu border and was trusted by Sun Quan for his integrity and diplomacy.

Son of Zhuge Jin and regent of Eastern Wu under Sun Liang; won fame at the Battle of Dongxing but later launched a disastrous campaign and was ousted and killed in 253.

Zhuge Jin's son and younger brother of Zhuge Ke; inherited his father's troops and position at Gong'an; after Zhuge Ke's fall was ordered to commit suicide by Sun Jun.

Eastern Han general and warlord; Chancellor of Jibei; befriended Cao Cao and urged him to secure a base in Henan; died in 192 saving Cao Cao from Yellow Turbans.

Han scholar, calligrapher, and musician who served at the court; Dong Zhuo recruited him and promoted him; after Dong Zhuo's death Wang Yun had him imprisoned and he died in prison.

Cao Cao's eldest son by Lady Liu; died at Wancheng in 197 giving his horse to his father so Cao Cao could escape Zhang Xiu's surprise attack. His sacrifice is recorded in the histories.

Cao Ren's father; served in the Eastern Han government; died when his sons were young; posthumously honoured as Marquis Mu of Chen.

Cao Cao's daughter; Consort Sun's child; sent to Emperor Xian with Cao Jie and Cao Xian as noble lady (貴人).

Cao Cao's daughter; Consort Sun's child; Empress of Emperor Xian (215–220); opposed Cao Pi's takeover; Duchess of Shanyang; died 260; posthumously Empress Xianmu.

Cao Cao's father; a Han official and adopted son of the eunuch Cao Teng. He was killed in 194 while passing through Xu Province, which triggered Cao Cao's punitive campaign against Tao Qian.

Eastern Han eunuch; Central Regular Attendant; adopted Cao Song as his heir; adoptive grandfather of Cao Cao; posthumously honoured as Emperor Gao of Wei (220).

Cao Cao's daughter; Consort Sun's child; sent to Emperor Xian with Cao Jie and Cao Hua as noble lady (貴人).

Cao Cao's son by Lady Bian; died young; posthumously enfeoffed as Marquis of Xiao; later honoured as Prince of Xiao under Cao Pi.

Fictional beauty in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms; Wang Yun's maid or foster daughter; used in the 'Chain Stratagem' to turn Lü Bu against Dong Zhuo; not a historical figure.

Han official and Lü Bu's first lord; he was Inspector of Bing Province when Dong Zhuo recruited Lü Bu to kill him. Lü Bu's defection to Dong Zhuo removed a key obstacle to Dong Zhuo's control of the capital.

Last effective emperor of the Eastern Han, enthroned as a boy in 189; held as a figurehead by Dong Zhuo, Li Jue, Cao Cao, and Cao Pi until his abdication in 220, which ended the Han dynasty.

Yuan Shao's nephew and Governor of Bing Province; surrendered to Cao Cao in 204, then rebelled in 205; defeated by Li Dian, Yue Jin, Du Ji, and Xiahou Yuan; fled south and was killed by a prefect.

Han warlord of the northern frontier who fought the Xiongnu and Yellow Turbans, allied with Liu Bei, and sent him to help Tao Qian in Xu Province; defeated by Yuan Shao and died in 199.

Liang Province warlord who allied with Ma Teng and later Ma Chao against Cao Cao; fought at Tong Pass, made peace with Cao Cao, and was eventually killed by his own officers.

Han scholar-official and Governor of Beihai, one of the Seven Scholars of Jian'an, who cared for Taishi Ci's mother and was relieved at Duchang by Liu Bei; later opposed Cao Cao and was executed in 208.

Cao Cao's first wife; raised Cao Ang and Princess Qinghe; left Cao Cao after Cao Ang's death at Wancheng (197) and refused reconciliation; died c. 220.

Liu Yan's second son; Palace Writer at Chang'an; imprisoned with Liu Fan by Dong Zhuo; killed in 194 when the plot with Ma Teng against Li Jue was exposed.

Liu Yan's eldest son; Gentleman of the Palace at Chang'an; plotted with Ma Teng to attack Li Jue; plot exposed, fled to Ma Teng's camp; killed at Changpingguan (or when Huaili fell).

Liu Yan's third son; Major of Separate Command in Yi Province; married Lady Wu (sister of Wu Yi); died early; Lady Wu later became Liu Bei's wife.

Administrator of Jiangxia and General Who Subdues Bandits; father of Liu Ba; had good relations with Sun Jian; defeated by Nanyang forces and fled.

Governor of Yi Province and father of Liu Zhang, who proposed 'abolish inspectors and establish governors' and established an independent regime in Yi Province.

Yang Province warlord and Inspector who was defeated by Sun Ce; Taishi Ci served him briefly and duelled Sun Ce at Shenting before Liu Yao lost and fled to Yuzhang.

Han dynasty scholar and general; teacher of Liu Bei and Gongsun Zan; opposed Dong Zhuo's deposition of Emperor Shao and fled the capital; died in 192.

Chancellor of Chen under the Han; father of Luo Tong; refused Yuan Shu's request for grain; assassinated by Yuan Shu's agent Zhang Kai.

Liang Province warlord and father of Ma Chao who allied with Han Sui, later submitted to Cao Cao and was summoned to the court where he was killed when Ma Chao rebelled.

Ma Teng's son and Ma Chao's brother; at court with his father; executed in 212 when Ma Chao rebelled against Cao Cao.

Ma Teng's son and Ma Chao's brother; held at court with his father; executed in 212 when Ma Chao rebelled against Cao Cao.

Eastern Han general who pacified the south and the Wulin tribes; famous for the saying 'wrapped in horse hide'; ancestor of Ma Teng and Ma Chao.

Renowned scholar and hermit of Xiangyang; uncle of Pang Tong; gave Zhuge Liang the epithet 'Crouching Dragon,' Pang Tong 'Young Phoenix,' and Sima Hui 'Water Mirror'; declined office under Liu Biao.

Pang Tong's cousin; married Zhuge Liang's second sister; scholar-official of Xiangyang.

Eastern Han official and father of Sima Yi; Prefect of Luoyang, Intendant of the Capital (Jingzhao), and Cavalry Commandant; known for strict discipline and scholarship; posthumously honoured as Marquis Cheng of Wuyang.

Reclusive scholar of Jing Province known as 'Water Mirror'; recommended Zhuge Liang as 'Crouching Dragon' and Pang Tong as 'Young Phoenix' to Liu Bei; his praise helped Liu Bei recruit Zhuge Liang.

Sun Jian's elder brother; father of Sun Ben and Sun Xiang; ancestral figure of the Sun clan.

Sun Jian's father; from Fuchun, Wu Commandery; ancestral figure of the Sun family that founded Eastern Wu.

Han Governor of Xu Province who fought the Yellow Turbans and later invited Liu Bei to govern Xu; on his deathbed he ceded the province to Liu Bei, enabling Liu Bei's first major territorial base.

Han Minister over the Masses who with Lü Bu assassinated Dong Zhuo in 192; briefly controlled the court at Chang'an before Li Jue and Guo Si seized the capital and killed him.

Western Han dynasty Marquis of Ruyin; ancestor of Xiahou Dun and the Xiahou lineage that served Cao Cao.

Famous character evaluator of the late Eastern Han; ran 'Monthly Evaluations' in Runan with Xu Jing; evaluated Cao Cao as 'able subject and crafty hero'.

Cousin of Xu Jing; Chancellor of Chen State; plotted with Kong Zhou to attack Dong Zhuo.

Yuan Shao's adviser and childhood friend of Cao Cao; defected to Cao Cao before Guandu and advised the raid on Yuan's supply depot at Wuchao; later killed by Xu Chu for disrespect or executed by Cao Cao.

White Wave Bandit general who escorted the Emperor east with Dong Cheng and others; had Xu Huang under him; plotted with Zhong Yao against Li Jue, then defected to Guo Si; later fought Cao Cao and was killed by Liu Bei's forces.

Yuan Shao's youngest son and designated heir; after Yuan Shao's death he fought his brother Yuan Tan and was driven north by Cao Cao; he fled to the Wuhuan and was killed in 207.

Yuan Shao's eldest son; after his father's death he fought his brother Yuan Shang for control of the north, allied with Cao Cao, then rebelled and was killed in 205.

Yuan Shao's second son; governed You Province; joined Yuan Shang after Ye fell, fled with him to the Wuhuan and then to Liaodong, where Gongsun Kang had both killed in 207.

Han dynasty Confucian scholar and commentator on the classics; taught many disciples including Sun Qian; refused office under Yuan Shao and others; died in 200.

Cao Wei general and administrator; son of Chen Gui; served Tao Qian and later Cao Cao; defended Guangling against Sun forces; died young, regretted by Cao Cao.

Wei general who rebelled with Guanqiu Jian; fled to Wu; returned with Wu forces; was killed by Zhuge Dan's men during the Shouchun rebellion.

Jin minister and general; close to Sima Shi and Sima Zhao; commanded forces against Zhuge Dan and in the conquest of Shu; urged Sima Zhao to accept the Nine Bestowals.

Wei and Jin general; supervised Zhong Hui and Deng Ai during the conquest of Shu; survived Zhong Hui's rebellion and later served Jin.

Inspector of Yang Province; Xu Jing served under him after Kong Zhou died.

Inspector then Governor of Ji Province; surrendered the province to Yuan Shao in 191; later fled to Zhang Miao and took his own life.

Eastern Han general and regent; brother of Empress He; ordered to suppress the eunuchs; was assassinated by eunuchs in 189, triggering the massacre and Dong Zhuo's entry.

Inspector of Yu Province; joined the coalition against Dong Zhuo; Xu Jing fled to him after Zhou Bi's execution.

Administrator of Runan from Yingchuan; recommended Xu Jing as Clerk and Filial and Incorrupt; Xu Jing's first recorded lord.

Founder of the Sun family power, famous as the 'Fierce Tiger of Jiangdong,' who defeated Dong Zhuo at Yangren, discovered the Imperial Seal, and was killed in battle at age 37 in 191 CE.

Commandant of Wu Commandery; protected Xu Jing with Wang Lang; executed by Sun Ce for suspected treason; his followers assassinated Sun Ce.

Governor of Yan Province and former Administrator of Chenliu; rebelled with Chen Gong and welcomed Lü Bu; killed by his own men.

Grand Marshal, Governor of Henei; gave Lü Bu refuge after Chang'an fell; killed by his subordinate Yang Chou.

Famous physician of the late Han; treated Cao Cao and others; said to have proposed surgery for Cao Cao's head ailment; was executed by Cao Cao.

Eastern Han general and warlord who seized the capital after He Jin's death, deposed the young emperor, installed Emperor Xian, moved the court to Chang'an, and was killed by Lü Bu and Wang Yun in 192.

Governor of Jing Province (190–208), one of the 'Eight Eminent'; pacified the province with the help of the Kuai and Cai clans, killed Sun Jian, and fostered learning—but remained neutral at Guandu and left succession disputed; died as Cao Cao advanced.

Liu Biao's general and Administrator of Jiangxia who killed Sun Jian; defended against Sun Ce and Sun Quan until defeated and killed by Sun Quan's forces in 208.

Han dynasty warlord and coalition leader against Dong Zhuo; he unified Hebei (Ji, Qing, You, Bing) and was defeated by Cao Cao at Guandu in 200, dying in 202.

Eastern Han warlord, younger brother of Yuan Shao; he held Nanyang and then Huainan, stole the imperial seal, and in 197 proclaimed himself emperor (仲家), dying in flight in 199.

Governor of Yi Province (194–214), Liu Yan's youngest son; invited Liu Bei to resist Zhang Lu and Cao Cao, then was ousted by Liu Bei and surrendered at Chengdu—'no kindness to the people in twenty years.'

Liu Zhang's official who secretly favoured Liu Bei; brought maps of Yi Province to Liu Bei; was executed when his plot was exposed.

Yuan Shao's chief strategist who advised welcoming the emperor and a protracted war against Cao Cao; captured at Guandu and later killed when trying to return to Yuan Shao.

General under Sun Jian; served in the campaigns against Dong Zhuo; mentioned alongside Huan Jie in the sources.

Administrator of Changsha under Liu Biao; Huang Zhong and Wei Yan served under him; when he tried to execute Wei Yan unjustly, Huang Zhong intervened and Han Xuan was killed; Changsha passed to Liu Bei.

Elder son of Liu Biao, Governor of Jing Province; passed over for succession in favour of Liu Cong; fled to Jiangxia and later allied with Liu Bei; died shortly after Liu Biao.

Younger son of Liu Biao who succeeded him as Governor of Jing Province in 208 and surrendered to Cao Cao; his surrender drove Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang south and gave Cao Cao control of Jing.

Han dynasty general and warlord known as the 'Flying General', who killed Ding Yuan and Dong Zhuo, seized Xuzhou, and was executed by Cao Cao at Xiapi in 199.

Jin general and scholar; led one of the armies in the conquest of Wu (280); compiled the Zuo zhuan commentary and other works.

Jin general who led the naval force down the Yangtze in the conquest of Wu (280); captured Jianye and accepted Sun Hao's surrender.

Jin general who defended the border with Wu; advocated conquering Wu and prepared the way; died before the campaign; remembered for his virtue and rapport with Wu's Lu Kang.

Son of He Shao; Jin dynasty scholar and minister; Grand Master of Ceremonies, Grand Tutor to the Heir; asked by Emperor Yuan of Jin about his father's death under Sun Hao.

Grandson of Sima Zhou; fled south after the fall of the north; founded the Eastern Jin dynasty in 317 as Emperor Yuan of Jin.

First emperor of the Jin dynasty and grandson of Sima Yi, who unified China by conquering Eastern Wu and established the Western Jin dynasty.

Cao Cao's former aide who defected to Lü Bu and helped him seize Yan Province; served as Lü Bu's chief strategist until captured at Xiapi and executed by Cao Cao in 198.

Lü Bu's general who commanded the elite 'Camp of Trapped Rebels'; captured Liu Bei's family at Xiapi, defeated Xiahou Dun at Xiaopei; captured and executed with Lü Bu by Cao Cao in 198.

Shu Han scholar and official who advised Liu Shan to surrender to Wei in 263; studied under Qin Mi and became a leading classicist and historian.

Xianbei tribal leader who raided the northern frontier; was defeated by Cao Zhang in Dai Commandery; later made peace with Wei.

Yuan Shao's Chief Clerk who urged a protracted war and opposed the southern campaign; imprisoned for 'damaging morale' and executed after Yuan Shao's defeat at Guandu.