Cheng-Han

Quick Facts: Who was Cheng-Han?

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Cheng-Han

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A dynastic state in Sichuan, one of the Sixteen Kingdoms, ruled by the Li clan.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Cheng-Han (simplified Chinese: 成汉; traditional Chinese: 成漢; pinyin: Chéng Hàn; 303 or 304 – 347) was a dynastic state of China listed as one of the Sixteen Kingdoms in Chinese historiography. Ruled by the Li clan of the Ba Di people, its territory was based in what is modern-day Sichuan Province, China. The name Cheng-Han collectively refers to the state of Cheng (成; Chéng) or Dacheng (大成; Dàchéng), founded by Li Xiong in 304 (or by Li Te in 303) and the state of Han (漢; Hàn) founded by Li Shou in 338. The state is also less commonly known as Later Shu (後蜀; Hòu Shǔ). The Li clan were originally Zong people from Baxi Commandery (巴西郡; in present-day Nanchong, Sichuan) in present-day Sichuan.

Career & Major Achievements

When the Han chancellor, Cao Cao conquered Hanzhong in 215, Li Hu (李虎) led his family to surrender and migrated to Lüeyang Commandery (略陽郡; in modern Tianshui, Gansu), where they mingled with the local Di tribes. Their people became known as the Ba Di, with “Ba” referring to their ancestral homeland. In 296, the Di chieftain, Qi Wannian, led a tribal rebellion against the Western Jin dynasty. The rebellion devastated the Guanzhong region, creating an influx of Han and non-Han refugees fleeing south into Hanzhong and Sichuan. Among the refugees, the Li clan grew to prominence after the Inspector of Yi, Zhao Xin rebelled in 299.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

They joined him and served as key generals, but later overthrew him and took the provincial capital, Chengdu in 300. Li Te submitted to Jin in light of the Jin army’s arrival led by the new provincial inspector, Luo Shang, but from this point on, he acted as a representative for the influential refugee families in the region. Tension grew between Li Te and Luo Shang due to an order from the imperial court demanding the refugees to return to their homes. The refugees were reluctant to make the journey, as the north was reportedly still unstable. Li Te negotiated with Luo Shang to extend their stay, but the latter soon grew frustrated by the delay and tried to force a move.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Cheng-Han

True or False: “The Cheng-Han dynasty was established entirely within the territory that is modern Sichuan Province.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): While its influence spanned surrounding areas, the core territory of the state was based in what is modern-day Sichuan Province.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheng-Han