Liu Pi, Prince of Wu
A powerful regional prince whose rebellion against centralizing Han authority marked a significant period.
Quick Facts: Who was Liu Pi, Prince of Wu?
- Subject:
- Liu Pi, Prince of Wu
- Known for:
- A powerful regional prince whose rebellion against centralizing Han authority marked a significant period.
- Born:
- 216 BC
- Died:
- 154 BC
- Century / Era:
- -216s Historical Era Archive
- Verified Source:
- 2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives
Origins & Early Life
Liu Pi (simplified Chinese: 刘濞; traditional Chinese: 劉濞; pinyin: Liú Pì; 215–154 BC) was a nephew of Emperor Gaozu of Han, being a son of Liu Xi, Prince Qing of Dai, and appointed Prince of Wu by Emperor Gao. During the reign of Emperor Jing, he initiated the Rebellion of the Seven States to resist the Emperor's centralizing policies, during which he was defeated and killed. On 26 January 196 BC, he was made Marquess of Pei at the age of 20. He later demonstrated his combat ability as a cavalry general in the campaign against Ying Bu.
Career & Major Achievements
On 30 November 196 BC, Emperor Gao promoted Liu Pi to Prince of Wu due to his growing concerns about the Wu provinces. When Emperor Wen of Han was on the throne, Liu Pi's son Liu Xian and Crown Prince Qi (later Emperor Jing of Han) were involved in a game of Liubo which ended in the two getting into an argument and the crown prince killing Liu Pi's son with the chess board. Out of revenge and reflecting his growing distrust of the Emperor, Liu Pi started building up his wealth and military power within his territory. Emperor Wen believed his son was at fault for Liu Xian's death and did not hold Liu Pi accountable for his aggressive actions.
Enduring Legacy & Impact
After Crown Prince Qi became emperor, based on the advice from Chao Cuo, Emperor Jing began to centralize power in an attempt to reduce the strength of the regional princes. In c.February 154 BC, Liu Pi convinced six other princes to rebel against the emperor, thereby starting the Rebellion of the Seven States. The emperor appointed Zhou Yafu as commander and he defeated Liu Pi's army. Liu Pi fled to the Prince of Dongyue, who killed him under the inducement of the imperial court; the kingdom of Wu was later abolished.
Chronological Milestones & Life Events
Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Liu Pi, Prince of Wu
True or False: “Liu Pi's initial resistance to the Emperor was primarily due to his dissatisfaction with taxation policies rather than political centralization.”
Answer (FALSE ❌): His rebellion was directly triggered by Emperor Jing's efforts to centralize power and reduce the strength of regional princes.
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- -216 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -216
- -154 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -154
Frequently Asked Questions about Liu Pi, Prince of Wu
Who was Liu Pi, Prince of Wu and what are their primary contributions?
A powerful regional prince whose rebellion against centralizing Han authority marked a significant period. Origins & Early Life: Liu Pi (simplified Chinese: 刘濞; traditional Chinese: 劉濞; pinyin: Liú Pì; 215–154 BC) was a nephew of Emperor Gaozu of Han, being a son of Liu Xi, Prince Qing of Dai, and appointed Prince of Wu by Emperor Gao. During the reign of Emperor Jing, he initiated the Rebellion of the Seven States to resist the Emperor's centralizing policies, during which he was defeated and killed. On 26 January 196 BC, he was made Marquess of Pei at the age of 20. He later demonstrated his combat ability as a cavalry general in the campaign against Ying Bu.
When was Liu Pi, Prince of Wu born and during which historical era did they live?
Liu Pi, Prince of Wu was born on -216 and passed away on -154. For complete historical world events during this era, explore the -216 Chrono-Archive.
Where can I read more verified chronological archives on Liu Pi, Prince of Wu?
Explore verified primary sources, interactive timelines, and contemporary figures in the 2Day Chrono-Wiki encyclopedia or review the original entry on Wikipedia.
Source: Wikipedia