Tragic Fate of Liu Chang: A Tale of Power and Revenge

Liu Chang, also known as the King of Huainan, was the youngest son of Emperor Gaozu and born to a beautiful consort from Zhao, gifted to the Emperor by the Zhao King. Unfortunately, his mother’s favor at court ended abruptly due to political intrigue, leading to her imprisonment and ultimately her tragic death. Liu Chang, who had no mother to guide him, was raised under the care of Empress Lü Zhi, but he harbored a deep resentment towards Bi Yanghou, who had failed to protect his mother and other innocent victims from the political machinations of the court.

Upon reaching adulthood, Liu Chang inherited the title of King of Huainan, ruling over four counties. Despite his royal status and physical prowess—able to lift a cauldron—he often acted recklessly, challenging imperial authority. Liu Chang’s close relationship with Emperor Wen was marred by his refusal to adhere to the laws and his habit of addressing the emperor as “Big Brother,” demonstrating a lack of respect for imperial hierarchy.

Liu Chang’s rebellious nature reached a climax when he killed Bi Yanghou, seeking revenge for his mother’s fate. He boldly confessed his crime before the emperor, citing multiple grievances, including Bi Yanghou’s failure to defend his mother and the wrongful deaths of others. Liu Chang’s audacity left the court shocked, but Emperor Wen, recognizing Liu Chang’s courage and familial loyalty, chose not to punish him harshly, a decision that was both a testament to Liu Chang’s charisma and a reflection of the political complexities of the time.

However, Liu Chang’s continued disregard for imperial authority and his ambition eventually led to his downfall. In the sixth year of Emperor Wen’s reign, Liu Chang conspired with local officials to rebel, a plot that was soon discovered. The emperor, deeply troubled by Liu Chang’s actions, had him brought to the capital. Despite Liu Chang’s previous transgressions, Emperor Wen could not bring himself to execute his own brother. Instead, Liu Chang was stripped of his title and exiled to a remote county, where he was provided with basic necessities and allowed to live with a few of his favored attendants.

Liu Chang’s downfall was a topic of great concern for the court. The emperor’s leniency was criticized, with officials arguing that Liu Chang’s actions warranted severe punishment. However, Emperor Wen’s compassion for his brother prevailed. He ordered that Liu Chang be treated with respect during his journey to exile, ensuring that he was not harshly treated.

Liu Chang’s journey ended in tragedy. Overcome with grief and perhaps a sense of hopelessness, he refused to eat and eventually died in Yōng. His death was a somber moment for the emperor, who mourned deeply, realizing the tragic fate of his brother. Liu Chang’s legacy was further complicated by the posthumous judgment of his character and actions. While he was remembered for his bravery and defiance, his inability to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics ultimately led to his demise.

In the aftermath of Liu Chang’s death, Emperor Wen showed leniency towards his brother’s descendants, bestowing noble titles upon them. The story of Liu Chang became a cautionary tale, immortalized in a folk song lamenting the discord between brothers, a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of family ties and the perils of power struggles.

Liu Chang’s life and death are emblematic of the turbulent political landscape of the early Han Dynasty, where personal grievances often intertwined with broader state affairs. His story highlights the complexities of loyalty, justice, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Liu Chang’s tragic fate serves as a poignant chapter in the history of the Han Dynasty, illustrating the enduring impact of familial relationships on the course of Chinese history.