“Han Xin: From Obscurity to Conqueror”
Han Xin was born in Huaiyin, which is now part of the Huai’an region in China’s Jiangsu Province. In his early years, he was a man of humble origins, lacking wealth and influence, and thus unable to secure a government position. Despite attempting to enter the merchant class, he relied on others for sustenance and was often met with disdain, causing him to frequently move from place to place in Huaiyin county.
One day, Han Xin, hungry and destitute, was given food by a generous woman who took pity on him. Grateful for her kindness, he vowed to repay her someday. However, she scorned him, saying, “How can a grown man not fend for himself? I pity you as one would pity a prince.” Han Xin’s pride was wounded, and he left her without a word.
Han Xin sought solace by fishing near the city walls of Huaiyin, using cotton fibers as bait. One day, a local butcher’s young apprentice mocked him, saying, “Even if you grow up, you’re only good at wielding knives and swords when you’re frightened.” Others joined in, humiliating him further. Han Xin, deeply offended, challenged them, declaring, “If I can’t die by your hands, I will expose you.” With this, he bent down, revealing his bare backside, and cowered in submission. The crowd laughed at him, thinking him cowardly.
When Xiang Liang crossed the Huai River, Han Xin joined him with a sword in hand, offering to serve him. He lived in Xiang Liang’s shadow, unrecognized and unknown. After Xiang Liang’s defeat and death, Han Xin aligned himself with Xiang Yu, who appointed him as a minor official. Despite proposing strategies to Xiang Yu several times, they were all dismissed.
When Liu Bang entered Shu, Han Xin abandoned Chu and returned to Han, still unrecognized. He served under Lian Ao, narrowly escaping execution. Thirteen of his companions were executed before him. When his turn came, Han Xin looked up and happened to see Teng Gong. “Do you not want to be the ruler of the world?” he asked. Teng Gong was intrigued by his words and his demeanor, spared him from execution, and engaged him in conversation, eventually winning him over. Teng Gong reported this to Liu Bang, who appointed him as the governor of the granary. Liu Bang, however, did not think much of him.
Han Xin often spoke with Xiao He, who valued him greatly. When they reached Nanzheng, dozens of soldiers deserted along the way. Han Xin told Xiao He that if they didn’t use him, he would leave. Liu Bang heard that Han Xin had left but didn’t hear why, so he pursued him. Someone told Liu Bang, “Prime Minister Xiao He has left.” Liu Bang was very angry, feeling as though he had lost his right-hand man. After a day or two, Xiao He came to Liu Bang. Liu Bang was angry and happy, scolding Xiao He, saying, “If you leave, why?” Xiao He said, “I dare not leave. I’m chasing the deserter.” Liu Bang asked, “Who are you chasing?” He said, “Han Xin.” Liu Bang scolded again, “If the general has left, why?” He said, “I’m not a deserter. I’m chasing the deserter.” Liu Bang said, “Who are you chasing?” He said, “Han Xin.” Liu Bang scolded again, “If the general has left, why?” He said, “I’m not a deserter. I’m chasing the deserter.”