Ancient South Don County: A Cultural Journey

Nanton County, formerly known as the State of Dunzi, is steeped in rich historical significance that bridges ancient Chinese culture with its modern-day implications. This region, historically linked to the Dunzi State, was founded by the Ji clan. Initially pressured by the Chen State, the Dunzi people migrated southwards, hence the name Nanton.

The annals recount various significant events that shaped the region’s destiny. In the twenty-first year, the Wu King He Lu launched a military campaign against Yue. During this campaign, King Goujian of Yue critically wounded King He Lu of Wu, who subsequently succumbed to his injuries. This incident intensified Wu’s enmity towards Yue, deterring them from expanding westward against Chu.

In the twenty-seventh year of King He Lu’s reign, Wu launched an attack on Chen. King Zhao of Chu came to Chen’s aid and besieged the city of Chengfu. During October of that year, King Zhao fell ill while encamped with his army at Chengfu. Witnesses reported seeing a reddish cloud resembling a bird, flying alongside the sun.

Historical accounts suggest that this phenomenon was visible only in Chu’s territory. King Zhao, concerned about this omen, sought advice from the Zhou court’s astrologers. The court astrologers warned that this was a calamity destined for the Chu king, but it could be averted if transferred to his generals. Despite these warnings, King Zhao insisted on confronting the omen himself, refusing his generals’ entreaties to act as intercessors.

Consulting the oracles, they indicated a curse associated with the river. Ministers petitioned for divine intervention through prayers to the river, but King Zhao refused, claiming that the river, symbolically associated with his ancestral blessings, could not bring upon him any misfortune. Confucius, present in Chen at that time, remarked on King Zhao’s understanding of the celestial omens, noting that he had a deep understanding of statecraft necessary for the preservation of his kingdom.

As King Zhao’s health deteriorated, he summoned his courtiers and declared, “I have been inept, bringing shame to our army twice. Now I am fortunate enough to end my days naturally. This is my good fortune.” He initially offered the throne to his brother, Prince Shen, who declined. The same happened with his younger brothers, but eventually, Prince Lu reluctantly accepted after five refusals.

Preparations for battle were underway, but on the day of Geng Yin, King Zhao passed away at the military camp. Prince Lu declared, “The king was gravely ill, and despite relinquishing his throne to his sons and ministers, I am bound to honor the late king’s intentions!” He conspired with Prince Xi and Prince Qi, stationed troops, sealed off the city, and welcomed the son of Yue’s woman as the new king.

This was how King Hui was established. Subsequently, the army was disbanded, and King Zhao was laid to rest. In the second year of King Hui’s reign, Xi summoned the prince of the deceased King Tai of Wu, Shi, to Wu, and appointed him as the Grand Master of Chao, under the title of “Public White.” White Gong loved soldiers and lower soldiers and wanted to avenge the dead.

In the sixth year, the white prince asked for a soldier to send troops to attack Zheng. Initially, the prince’s father, Jian, was killed in Zheng. Zheng killed him, the white prince fled to Wu, and Xi Xi called him back. Therefore, with this grudge, he wanted to attack him. Xi Xi promised to send troops but did not do so. In the eighth year, Jin attacked Zheng, Zheng called for help from Chu, and Xi Xi helped Zheng and took bribes to leave. The White Prince was angry and killed Shi Xi, and Xi Xi, and put the Hui King on the high house.

King Hui was following the Queen’s son, and the White King made himself the king. After the month, the public came to rescue the Chu, and the Hui King, Chu Hui, was involved in the conspiracy, closed the door, and welcomed the son of the Yue women as the Hui King.