Strategist and Diplomat of Ancient China
Kua Tong: A Strategic Diplomat in Ancient China
Kua Tong, hailing from Fanyang, shared the same name as Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty. During the early days of the Chu-Han Contention, he was known as the “Wuxin Duke” after the military leader Wu Chen secured the Zhao territory. Kua Tong approached Xu Gong, the governor of Fanyang, and said, “I am Kua Tong, a humble citizen of Fanyang. I came to mourn the imminent death of Duke Min. However, I also congratulate Duke He for surviving.”
Xu Gong, inquiring further, asked, “Why mourn Duke Min?” Kua Tong replied, “You have been the governor for over a decade. During this time, many have suffered: fathers were killed, orphans left behind, feet amputated, and heads tattooed. The only reason the loving fathers and filial sons did not dare to act against you was their fear of the Qin laws. Now that the world is in chaos and the Qin laws are no longer in force, these people might seek revenge, reclaim their grievances, and fulfill their desire for justice. This is why I mourn.”
Xu Gong then asked, “And why congratulate Duke He for surviving?” Kua Tong explained, “Duke Wu Xinxin of Zhao did not recognize my lack of capability and sent people to inquire about his own fate. I advised Duke Wu that he would be victorious and subsequently conquer the land, but if he followed my strategy, he could achieve his goals without battle. My plan was to use a yellow carriage and red wheel to meet with the governor of Fanyang, which would convince the border cities to surrender peacefully, as the news would spread quickly and encourage others to do the same.”
Xu Gong was impressed by Kua Tong’s insight and sent him with a retinue of a hundred carriages and two hundred horsemen to deliver his message. Kua Tong’s advice was heeded, and the result was the peaceful surrender of over thirty cities. His strategy proved effective.
Later, when General Han Xin captured the King of Wei and conquered Zhao and Dai, he turned his attention eastward towards Qi. Upon hearing that the Han emperor had sent Li Shiqi to negotiate with Qi, Han Xin hesitated. Kua Tong advised Han Xin, “The emperor of Han has sent an envoy to negotiate, which indicates the Han has no intention of stopping your campaign. If you cease now, it will appear as though you are failing to achieve your goal. It is better to press on, as the Han army, despite its large numbers, has faced numerous setbacks and is struggling. Success lies in pursuing the enemy relentlessly.”
Han Xin, convinced by Kua Tong’s argument, continued his campaign, crossing the Yellow River. Qi, upon hearing the terms from Li Shiqi, agreed to them and prepared for Han Xin’s arrival. Han Xin’s advance through Qi was smooth, and he declared himself King of Qi. Despite the Han’s efforts to secure the region, Han Xin solidified his rule in Qi.
Subsequently, Kua Tong sought to persuade Han Xin to switch allegiance from Han to Chu. He warned Han Xin about the dangers of aligning with the Han, stating, “The two rulers, Liu and Xiang, are currently locked in conflict. The Han has been unable to secure decisive victories, while Chu’s army, despite its strength, has been unable to make significant advances. If you switch sides now, you risk losing both favor and stability.”
Han Xin was initially hesitant to betray the Han but ultimately chose to remain loyal to his current allegiance. Kua Tong’s advice, though ultimately not followed, was a testament to his strategic acumen.
In the final stages of the Chu-Han conflict, Han Xin was accused of treason and deposed. Facing execution, Han Xin lamented, “I regret not heeding Kua Tong’s advice. I have died at the hands of a woman!” Emperor Gaozu of Han, recognizing Kua Tong’s expertise, summoned him to explain his past actions. Kua Tong clarified his motives, stating that his advice was based on a deep understanding of the political landscape and the need for strategic maneuvering.
Kua Tong’s counsel had a profound impact on the political and military strategies of his time. His insights into the shifting allegiances and the delicate balance of power highlight his role as a key strategist and diplomat in ancient Chinese history. His legacy, captured in his strategic treatises, continues to be studied for its lessons on diplomacy and warfare.
Kua Tong’s strategic brilliance and diplomatic skill during a time of immense political upheaval exemplify the intricate interplay between military strategy and political maneuvering in ancient China. His contributions to the Chu-Han Contention remain a significant part of Chinese historical and military studies.