The Kingdom of Wu

The Kingdom of Wu, also known as the state of Wu, refers to several historical entities in Chinese history. Here’s an overview of the two most prominent:

  1. Wu (222-280 AD):
    • Founder: Sun Quan, who declared himself emperor in 229 AD.
    • Capital: Jianye (modern-day Nanjing).
    • Territory: Initially part of the Three Kingdoms period, Wu was one of the three major states alongside Wei and Shu. It controlled southeastern China, including parts of present-day Jiangsu, Anhui, and Zhejiang provinces.
    • Significance: Known for its naval prowess and cultural development, Wu engaged in a protracted conflict with the state of Wei and later allied with Shu against Wei during the Three Kingdoms period.
    • End: The state of Wu was conquered by the Jin Dynasty in 280 AD, ending the Three Kingdoms period.
  2. Wu (902-937 AD):
    • Founder: Yang Xingmi, a warlord who established the state of Wu during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.
    • Capital: Initially Guangling (present-day Yangzhou), later moved to Jinling (modern-day Nanjing).
    • Territory: Located in southern China, Wu emerged as a major power during the chaotic period following the Tang Dynasty’s decline.
    • Significance: Known for its military strength and cultural achievements, Wu played a crucial role in stabilizing the region and resisting northern invasions.
    • End: The state of Wu was eventually annexed by the Later Tang Dynasty in 937 AD, marking the end of its independence.

Both entities named Wu left significant marks on Chinese history, with the Three Kingdoms period Wu contributing to the cultural and political landscape of ancient China, while the later Wu played a pivotal role during the fragmentation of China in the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.