The Rise of Duke Huan
The Ninth Year of Duke Huan’s Reign
In the spring of the ninth year of Duke Huan’s reign, the people of Qi assassinated their ruler, Wuzhi. Duke Huan of Lu formed an alliance with the ministers of Qi at Ji. During the summer, Duke Huan launched a campaign against Qi to install his ally, Zijiu, on the throne. However, Xiaobai, another contender for the throne, returned to Qi from Ju and gained support. In the autumn, on the Dingyou day of the seventh month, Duke Xiang of Qi was buried. On Gengshen day of the eighth month, the forces of Lu clashed with the Qi army at Qianshi and suffered a defeat. By September, the people of Qi captured and killed Zijiu. In the winter, the River Zhu was dredged.
Political Turmoil in Qi
In the spring, the nobleman Yonglin of Qi killed Wuzhi, leading to a power vacuum in the state of Qi. Without a ruler, the nobles of Qi sought to form alliances to restore order. Duke Huan of Lu saw an opportunity to extend his influence and support his ally, Zijiu, in claiming the throne of Qi. He met with the nobles of Qi at Ji to solidify their alliance.
The Campaign Against Qi
During the summer, Duke Huan of Lu launched a military campaign to install Zijiu as the ruler of Qi. However, Xiaobai, another contender for the throne, who was residing in Ju, quickly returned to Qi and garnered significant support from the local nobility. This swift move by Xiaobai complicated Duke Huan’s plans.
The Battle of Qianshi
In the autumn, on the Dingyou day of the seventh month, Duke Xiang of Qi was buried. Shortly after, on Gengshen day of the eighth month, the forces of Lu engaged the Qi army at Qianshi. Despite their efforts, the Lu army suffered a severe defeat. Duke Huan lost his military chariot and had to retreat on a borrowed vehicle. Qinzi and Liangzi, two of Duke Huan’s generals, used the duke’s banner to signal a retreat through a safer route, helping to minimize further casualties.
The Capture and Execution of Zijiu
After their defeat at Qianshi, Duke Huan’s position weakened. Recognizing the need to consolidate power, Baoshu, a prominent leader in Qi, came to Duke Huan and suggested eliminating Zijiu. Baoshu argued that while Zijiu was a relative, his removal was necessary to stabilize the state. He also suggested capturing Guan Zhong and Shao Hu, prominent advisors and supporters of Zijiu.
Following this advice, Zijiu was captured and executed in Shengdou. Shao Hu, loyal to Zijiu, chose to die alongside him. Guan Zhong, however, was captured alive. Baoshu requested that Guan Zhong be taken prisoner rather than executed, proposing that his administrative skills could be useful. Guan Zhong was subsequently taken to Tangfu, where he was detained and taxed. Upon returning, Baoshu reported, “Guan Zhong has exceptional administrative abilities and could serve as an advisor.”
The Ascendancy of Duke Huan
Following the execution of Zijiu and the defeat of his forces, Duke Huan of Lu recognized the need for strong leadership to maintain his influence. Accepting Baoshu’s recommendation, he appointed Guan Zhong as his chief advisor. Guan Zhong’s administrative reforms and strategic counsel played a crucial role in consolidating Duke Huan’s power and stabilizing the region.
Guan Zhong’s governance brought significant changes to the state of Qi. His policies included economic reforms, strengthening the military, and fostering diplomatic relations with neighboring states. Under his guidance, Duke Huan’s influence grew, and he eventually became one of the most powerful and respected rulers of his time.
Winter and Administrative Reforms
In the winter, the River Zhu was dredged, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and manage natural resources. This project aimed to prevent flooding and ensure a steady water supply for agriculture, contributing to the prosperity and stability of the region.
The ninth year of Duke Huan’s reign was marked by political upheaval, military campaigns, and significant administrative reforms. The assassination of Wuzhi and the subsequent power struggle in Qi provided an opportunity for Duke Huan to extend his influence. Despite setbacks on the battlefield, strategic decisions and key alliances, particularly the appointment of Guan Zhong, enabled Duke Huan to rise to prominence. His reign, supported by Guan Zhong’s reforms, laid the foundation for a period of prosperity and stability, solidifying his legacy as a powerful and effective ruler in ancient China.